The BCCI has announced India’s squad for the upcoming ACC Men’s Under-19 Asia Cup, and Ayush Mhatre has been chosen to lead the team. The tournament is scheduled for December, and the selectors have gone with a strong mix of players who have performed consistently over the past season. Mhatre’s elevation to captaincy reflects the trust the management has in his temperament and leadership skills.
Alongside him, the selectors have included several promising youngsters. Vihaan Malhotra has been named vice-captain, while Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Vedant Trivedi, Yuvraj Gohil and Kanishk Chouhan are among the other notable names in the squad. Each player has earned his place through impressive form in domestic age-group cricket.
There had been a lot of buzz around Suryavanshi, especially after his recent performances captured public attention. Some fans expected him to be given a leadership role or even the vice-captaincy. However, the selectors chose to keep things simple, giving Malhotra the responsibility while allowing Suryavanshi to focus on his batting. Even so, his selection indicates that he remains an important part of India’s future plans.
Mhatre’s appointment didn’t come as a surprise to many who have followed his progress. He has captained the Under-19 setup before, including during the multi-format tour of Australia, where he earned praise for his calm approach and clear decision-making. With several familiar faces returning to the squad, the team appears to have a solid foundation heading into the Asia Cup.
For India, this tournament is more than just a continental competition. It serves as a crucial testing ground ahead of next year’s Under-19 World Cup. Performances here will help shape the final squad for the global event, making the Asia Cup an opportunity for these youngsters to establish themselves and gain valuable experience under pressure.
India will begin their campaign in Dubai on December 12. With a capable captain, exciting young talent and the weight of India’s strong Under-19 legacy behind them, the spotlight will be firmly on this group to deliver. Fans will be eager to see how Mhatre and his team handle the challenge and whether they can set the tone for a successful season ahead.