17 wickets tumble on last day as India-England Youth Test ends in a draw

Nagpur, Feb 16: A staggering 17 wickets fell on the fourth and final day of the first Youth Test match between Under-19 cricket teams of India and England today (February 16) which saw wildly fluctuating fortunes before the game ended in a draw here.

The VCA Stadium at Jamtha near here virtually turned into a graveyard for batsmen of both teams as they struggled to remain afloat.

India U-19 bowler Sijumon Joseph (2nd right) celebrates with team-mates after dismissing Will Jacks on the last day of their Youth Test in Nagpur. Joseph took 6 wickets

England, who resumed at overnight score of 32 for 1, were shot out for 167 off 53 overs in their second essay. George Bartlett, the centurion in the first innings, played another resolute knock of 68 (11x4).

Olive Pope supported him with a crisp 26. India's Sijumon Joseph (6/62) spun a web around Englishmen with a fine spell of bowling, raising hopes of a win.

India required 238 for an outright win, but their batsmen too struggled. The hosts survived some tense moments before finishing at 189 for 8, thus managing to draw the game.

S Lokeshwar 92 (14x4) played a match-saving innings and Sijumon Joseph 37 showed his all-round ability to save the day for the hosts. Pacers Henrey brooks (3/54) and Aaron Beard 2/24 struck vital blows to dent India's chances of a win.

Brief scores: England 1st innings 501 for 5 declared; second innings 167 all out off 53 overs; George Bartlett 68; Sijumon Joseph 6/62. India 1st innings 431 for 8 declared; second innings 189 for 8 off 49 overs; S Lokeshwar 92 not out, Sijumon Joseph 37; Henrey brooks 3/56, Aaron Beard 2/24.

PTI