Rew & Ekansh Rescue England After India’s Flying Start in U‑19 Youth Test

England Under‑19 faced early adversity on Day 1 of the second Youth Test at Chelmsford, slumping to 46 for 4 after India’s bowlers made full use of favorable, rain-affected conditions. But captain Thomas Rew and middle-order batter Ekansh Singh mounted a determined recovery, leading a crucial partnership that turned the momentum back in England's favor.

Rew played a captain’s knock, crafting a composed 59 off 79 balls, showing excellent temperament under pressure. At the other end, Ekansh Singh anchored the innings with an assured and unbeaten 66 off 98 balls, guiding the team toward stability. The duo added 90 runs for the sixth wicket, frustrating India’s bowlers and helping England reach 229 for 7 by stumps.

India started the day brightly, with their pacers extracting movement off the seam and maintaining relentless pressure. R.S. Ambrish was the standout performer with figures of 2 for 44 in 15 overs, supported by Aditya Rawat (2 for 46), Naman Pushpak (2 for 48), and Henil Patel (1 for 42). The disciplined bowling effort looked likely to dismantle England’s lineup before Rew and Ekansh dug in.

As conditions eased and the pitch began to flatten, England’s approach shifted. Rew and Ekansh mixed patience with occasional aggression, punishing anything loose and carefully rotating the strike. Their innings not only halted India’s momentum but also showcased England’s depth and resilience.

India, while still in a good position with three wickets remaining, will need early breakthroughs on Day 2 to keep England under 300 and then mount a strong batting response. The young English side, buoyed by this comeback, will aim to push past 300 and put scoreboard pressure on the visitors.

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