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 In a spirited finale to the India Under‑19 tour of England, the hosts claimed a convincing seven‑wicket win over India U19 in the fifth Youth ODI at Worcester’s New Road on July 7, 2025. Although England dominated the last encounter, India had already clinched the series with a 3–2 advantage.

India, sent in to bat first, were bowled out for 210 in their 50 overs. Early breakthroughs by England bowlers Ralphie Albert and Alex French—with figures of 2 for 24 and 2 for 37 respectively—kept the visitors on edge. Top-scorer R.S. Ambrish held the innings firmly together with a resilient unbeaten 66 from 81 balls, steering India to a defendable total. Rising star Vaibhav Suryavanshi, the 14-year-old sensation, managed just 33 before being dismissed by Sebastian Morgan.

England’s reply was clinical. Opener B.J. Dawkins led from the front with a fluent 66 off 53 balls, peppered with nine fours and three sixes. He was followed by captain Thomas Rew, who chipped in with a quickfire 49 not out off 37 deliveries. The leading role, however, was played by Ben Mayes, who remained unbeaten on 82 from 76 balls. Dawkins and Mayes stitched together a match-sealing 107-run partnership to chase down the total in just 31.1 overs.

The chase was wrapped up with 113 balls to spare, sealing a dominant performance by the home side. The final margin was a comprehensive seven wickets.

Despite the loss, India’s tour remains successful. The series win underscores their talent depth, spotlighting players like Suryavanshi—who had earlier smashed the fastest U19 ODI century (52 balls) and a half-century in the series. 

England's consolation win will be morale-boosting as they prepare for upcoming youth Tests. Both teams have shown character and ability, boding well for their senior pipelines. India will examine lapses that cost them the final match, while England will draw confidence from Dawkins, Mayes, and Rew—especially Rew, whose recent century for England U19 and Somerset highlights his bright future.

Match Summary at a Glance:

  • India U19: 210/9 in 50 overs (Ambrish 66*, Albert 2/24)
  • England U19: 211/3 in 31.1 overs (Mayes 82*, Dawkins 66, Rew 49*)
  • Result: England won by 7 wickets; India clinched series 3–2.

The next phase of the tour features two Youth Tests—setting the stage for emerging talents to stake a claim on the future of cricket for both nations.