New Delhi: Aaryavir Sehwag, son of former India opener Virender Sehwag, made an impressive start to India’s Under-19 Asia Cup campaign with a match-winning unbeaten half-century against Nepal on Friday. India registered a comprehensive 10-wicket victory in their opening Group A match of the ACC Men’s U19 Asia Cup 2026 in Oman. Aaryavir remained unbeaten on 70 off just 52 balls, while captain Lakshya Rajesh Raichandani also scored an unbeaten half-century.
After winning the toss and opting to bowl, India restricted Nepal to 128 in 42.3 overs. Nepal struggled against India’s disciplined bowling attack and lost wickets at regular intervals. At one stage, the team was reduced to 51 for four. Ishan Sood led the bowling effort with an impressive spell, claiming three wickets for just 18 runs in his 10 overs. He was named Player of the Match for his performance. Arjun Rajput also picked up three wickets, conceding only eight runs in 5.3 overs. Yashveer Goud contributed with two wickets.
For Nepal, Darsh Sonar top-scored with 43 off 93 deliveries, while wicketkeeper-batter Aashish Luhar made 29. Their partnership helped Nepal recover from an early collapse and take the total to 128. Chasing a target of 129, India made light work of the run chase. Openers Aaryavir Sehwag and captain Lakshya Raichandani put together an unbeaten partnership to take India to 129 without losing a wicket in just 19.1 overs.
Aaryavir’s 70-run knock included seven fours and four sixes. Lakshya remained unbeaten on 53 off 63 balls, hitting seven boundaries. The two batters gave Nepal’s bowlers no opportunity to make a comeback, completing India’s emphatic victory with all 10 wickets in hand. India will next take on arch-rivals Pakistan in a crucial Group A encounter on Sunday, November 8. The match is scheduled to be played at the Al Amerat Cricket Ground in Oman.
The tournament features eight teams divided into two groups, with the top two sides from each group qualifying for the semi-finals. The final is scheduled for November 14. Aaryavir’s performance will be an encouraging start for India as they prepare for the high-profile clash against Pakistan.
