India U19 bowler Henil Patel attributed his exceptional performance against the USA in the ICC Under-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup to former South African pacer Dale Steyn. Patel’s impressive 5 for 16 spell led India to a convincing six-wicket victory, kickstarting their World Cup campaign on a high note. Inspired by Steyn, Patel expressed admiration for the latter’s aggressive bowling style, which he tries to emulate in his own game.
Patel’s remarkable bowling display ranks as the third-best by an Indian in any Men’s Under-19 World Cup tournament. His crucial wickets, including three in the early overs, significantly dented the USA’s batting lineup, leaving them struggling at 34 for 4. The 18-year-old revealed that his strategy revolves around pitching the ball up, targeting the stumps, and relentlessly seeking wickets to unsettle the opposition.
During the match, Patel’s fiery opening spell dismantled the USA’s top order, setting the tone for India’s dominant performance. Supported by his teammates, including Deepesh Devendran, Ambarish RS, Khilan Patel, and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Patel’s disciplined bowling restricted the USA to a mere 107 runs within 36 overs. India’s next challenge awaits against Bangladesh in Group A on Saturday.
