Thaindian News

Townsville (Australia), Aug 26 (IANS) India captain Unmukt Chand, who struck a match-winning century for his side in the Under-19 Cricket World Cup final here Sunday, chose to single out team unity for its success in the tournament.

“The team has played really well in the tournament. It has been a good journey for us. Two years back we were 15 people from different states of India but now we are one team. They have been obedient and have always helped me,” said Chand, who stuck an unbeaten 111 and led India to a six wicket win over defending champions Australia at the Tony Ireland Stadium.

“I would like to thank for the support that we got from the coaching staff without whom we could not have won the World Cup. I would like to thank the team too. This could be the last match we play together as a team,” he said.

The venue proved be to lucky for the talented opener.

“I scored a century against them in the final of the last tournament we played here. Townsville has been good for me as I now have two centuries here,” the Delhi player added.

Australia captain William Bosisto praised Chand’s effort and said they paid the price for dropping crucial catches.

“We dropped a few chances, crucial one’s, which cost us the match. It was pretty hot today; almost felt like I was batting in India. Chand is a tremendous player. It is not the first time he terrorised us. We hope to get him quickly next time,” said Bosisto.

Chand was dropped twice during his 130-ball innings while Smith Patel (62 not out) got lucky once.