A big performance and an even greater fortitude! These adjectives fit perfectly with India’s massive win over Australia in the quarter-final of the ICC U-19 World Cup down in South Africa. The fixture at Potchefstroom saw a great battle between two sides who have historically been the most successful teams in the tournament. The Australians were beaten comprehensively by 74 runs, owing to a great team display by the Indians, led by three stunning performances from the young Rajasthan Royals boys on board. Let us lookat how each one of our Royals performed in this knockout-tie:
Yashasvi Jaiswal 62(82)
Yashasvi Jaiswal’s stature within the cricketing fraternity seems to be growing every time he steps out to bat. The story was no different during Jaiswal’s innings at Potchefstroom. The Rajasthan Royals youngster showed a different side to his batting, adapting to the team’s needs; the opener stood tall and led the team with the bat under some pressure situations early on. His knock of 62 came amidst some good bowling and tight spells.He approached his innings with the correct amount of caution and aggression. Yashasvi, once again displayed his consistency and demonstrated his mettle, proving that he is a fine batsman in the making.
Kartik Tyagi 4/24
The need for a stinging opening spell is key whendefending an average score. Kartik Tyagi provided India with just that!Australia were pushed back early after losing 3 wickets in the first over and then being reduced to 17/4 in under three overs. Tyagi has been clocking upwards of 135 kph regularly in the World Cup and against Australia, coupled his pace with some spot-on lines and lengths, decimating the opposition’s top order in the process. This bowling performance is likely to be in fans’ minds for a very longtime, unless of course, Kartik Tyagi comes up with another captivating bowling spell in the semi-final and hopefully the final too.
Akash Singh 3/30
Tyagi was the top-order demolisher, then Akash Singhwas the man who cleaned up the lower order. It was a crucial spell from the young left-armer, picking up the set Fanning for 75; the Rajasthan Royals quickie ensured that India faced no delay in wiping out the final wickets. Akash with his three-fer managed to turn the tide in India’s favour, helping them win the game comfortably.
Jaiswal, Tyagi and Singh seemed to be incontrol of their game, as they looked comfortable in their respective outings and have firmly stated their credentials to the world. India move on to the semi-finals and we can’t wait to see the Rajasthan Royals’ young guns back in action, making us and all of India proud again!
