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Ayush Mhatre in the ODI series vs England U19 (Source:@PuntitSports/X.com)
The third ODI of the five-match series between India U19 and England U19 is currently underway, with the series levelled at 1-1. However, India are without their regular skipper, Ayush Mhatre and in his place, Abhigyan Kundu is leading the side.
Harvansh Pangalia Comes In For Ayush Mhatre
Ayush Mhatre has not been in good form so far on the tour. He scored 21 in the first match, while he bagged a golden duck in the second game. However, the form is not likely to be the reason for his absence, and most probably, he has suffered an injury. His absence is a big loss for India and in his place, Harvansh Pangalia is included in the playing XI.
Also, the match started late due to rain in Northampton, and it has been reduced to a 40-over-per-side encounter. The new captain, Abhigyan Kundu, on his part, did his first job right, though, by winning the toss and deciding to bowl first.
However, England U19 openers started well and stitched together a stand of 78 runs to defuse India's plans of getting early wickets. Kanishk Chouhan picked up three wickets in quick succession in the middle overs to bring India back on track. Thus, India would be looking to keep England in check and make sure that they are not chasing a big total in the absence of Ayush Mhatre.
England Tour, A Golden Opporunity For Young Ayush Mhatre
Irrespective of the result of this match, Indian fans would be hoping that Ayush Mhatre is ready for the remainder of the games of this series. The 17-year-old displayed great form in IPL 2025 for CSK and has scored runs consistently for Mumbai at the domestic level too. He also scored runs in U19 Asia Cup in 2024, and thus this series is a good opportunity for Mhatre to further strengthen his stature.
After the third ODI, India have two more 50-over matches to go and they will be followed by two unofficial Tests.
