The BCCI has announced India’s Under-19 squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against South Africa, beginning January 3. The series will serve as key preparation for both teams ahead of the U-19 World Cup starting January 15.
Vaibhav Suryavanshi has been appointed captain for the assignment — his first time leading the India U-19 side. Regular skipper Ayush Mhatre has been ruled out due to a wrist injury, while vice-captain Vihaan Malhotra is also unavailable with the same issue. Both players will report to the BCCI Centre of Excellence for rehabilitation and are expected to focus on recovery.
A Rapid Rise for Suryavanshi
Captaining the national U-19 team at such a young age marks a significant milestone for Suryavanshi, who has already drawn attention with leadership roles at the domestic level. All eyes will be on how he manages responsibility with both bat and captaincy during the series.
India U-19 squad vs South Africa ODIs:
Vaibhav Suryavanshi (C), Aaron George (VC), Vedant Trivedi, Abhigyan Kundu (wk), Harvansh Singh (wk), R. S. Ambrish, Kanishk Chouhan, Khilan A. Patel, Mohamed Enaan, Henil Patel, D. Deepesh, Kishan Kumar Singh, Udhav Mohan, Yuvraj Gohil, Rahul Kumar.
World Cup Squad Also Confirmed
India has also revealed its squad for the upcoming U-19 World Cup. Both Mhatre and Malhotra have been included, with team management confident they will recover in time. As core members of the side, their participation will be crucial.
India U-19 World Cup squad:
Ayush Mhatre (C), Vihaan Malhotra (VC), Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Aaron George, Vedant Trivedi, Abhigyan Kundu (wk), Harvansh Singh (wk), R. S. Ambrish, Kanishk Chouhan, Khilan A. Patel, Mohamed Enaan, Henil Patel, D. Deepesh, Kishan Kumar Singh, Udhav Mohan.
With the ODI series offering a final tune-up before the global event, India will be looking to build rhythm and test bench strength under new leadership.