India Under-19 produced a remarkable batting display to secure a place in the ICC Men’s Under-19 World Cup final, pulling off a record run chase against Afghanistan Under-19 in the second semi-final played in Harare.
Chasing a stiff target of 311, India made light work of the task, reaching the total with more than eight overs to spare. The chase was anchored by a composed century from opener Aaron George, whose innings provided stability and control, while aggressive support around him ensured the required rate never became a concern.
Afghanistan had earlier posted an imposing total after their top order laid a solid platform. Their batters showed patience early before accelerating well in the latter half of the innings. Two of their key players registered centuries, helping Afghanistan cross the 300-run mark and putting India under pressure heading into the chase.
India’s response was immediate and fearless. The openers attacked from the outset, taking advantage of loose deliveries and forcing the bowlers off their lengths. Early chances went down in the field, and India capitalised fully, racing through the powerplay without loss.
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi provided the spark with a brisk half-century, striking the ball cleanly and maintaining momentum. Captain Ayush Mhatre then played a mature innings in the middle phase, ensuring there was no collapse once the openers departed. His partnership with George effectively sealed the contest.
George reached his hundred with a mix of elegant strokeplay and sound judgement, rotating the strike well and punishing anything short or wide. Even after his dismissal late in the chase, the result was no longer in doubt as India crossed the line comfortably.
Earlier, Afghanistan’s innings was built around disciplined batting and a strong finish, but their effort ultimately fell short against a determined Indian side that handled the pressure with maturity beyond their years.
With this win, India Under-19 booked their place in yet another World Cup final, underlining their reputation as one of the strongest youth teams in world cricket.
Brief Score
Afghanistan Under-19: 310/4 (50 overs)
India Under-19: 311/3 (41.1 overs)
India Under-19 won by 7 wickets
