RCB’s promising new signing Vihaan Malhotra delivered a standout all-round performance to help India U19 secure an exciting 18-run victory (DLS method) over Bangladesh U19 in a rain-affected ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup 2026 group match at Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. Malhotra’s match-turning bowling spell and sharp fielding were central to India’s comeback win, continuing his impressive form ahead of his franchise debut.
India post a competitive total
India were put in to bat first and posted 238 all out in 48.4 overs after being invited to set a target. Vaibhav Suryavanshi played a crucial innings of 72 off 67 balls, while wicketkeeper-batter Abhigyan Kundu also contributed significantly with 80 runs, helping India recover from early setbacks and build a defendable total.
Malhotra turns the game with the ball
In response, Bangladesh looked in control when they reached 88/2, but Vihaan Malhotra sparked a dramatic collapse with a sensational bowling effort. He finished with figures of 4 for 14 in four overs, consistently troubling the batsmen with his variations and accurate lines. His spell triggered a stunning collapse, as Bangladesh lost eight wickets for just 40 runs, ultimately being bowled out for 146 in 28.3 overs under the revised conditions.
Malhotra also made an impact in the field, holding on to a crucial catch late in the innings to dismiss one of the final batters and seal the win for India.
Match dynamics and comeback
Rain interruptions reduced the match to a 29-over chase for Bangladesh and invoked the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern method, making every wicket even more important. After Malhotra’s bowling burst, Indian bowlers maintained pressure, supported by sharp fielding and tactical bowling changes, to secure their second consecutive victory in the tournament.
What this means for Malhotra & RCB
Malhotra’s all-around display i.e four crucial wickets and a key catch, highlights his potential as a match-winner under pressure. His performance will excite RCB fans, who will be eager to see how he transitions his U19 World Cup form into franchise cricket. Established as a talented batter and an effective bowler, Malhotra’s continued development could make him a key contributor to India’s future and a valuable asset for RCB.
India U19’s win against Bangladesh U19 not only showed resilience in tricky conditions but also underlined the depth of young talent coming through the ranks, with players like Malhotra leading the way.
