India's U19 Team Advances to World Cup Final with Stellar Performance Against Afghanistan

In a thrilling semi-final match, India's U19 cricket team triumphed over Afghanistan, securing a place in the World Cup final. Aaron George's impressive century, along with strong performances from IPL players Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and Ayush Mhatre, led India to chase down a challenging target of 310 runs. With this victory, India aims for its tenth U19 World Cup title against England. The match showcased the depth of talent in Indian cricket, highlighting the effectiveness of the BCCI's junior development program. Read on to discover the highlights of this exciting encounter.

By Narendra Chaudhary Feb 4, 2026, 21:24 IST

India's Dominance in U19 World Cup Continues

Harare: A remarkable century from Aaron George, complemented by explosive fifties from IPL players Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and Ayush Mhatre, propelled India to a seven-wicket victory over Afghanistan, securing a spot in the ICC U19 World Cup final on Wednesday.

India is set to face England in the final on Friday, marking their tenth appearance in the U19 World Cup final, showcasing the effectiveness of BCCI's junior cricket development program that consistently reveals exceptional talent.

Initially, India faced a daunting challenge as Afghanistan amassed 310 runs for four wickets, featuring impressive centuries from Faisal Shinozada (110) and Uzairullah Niazal (101).

However, India chased down the target in just 41.1 overs, achieving their highest-ever run chase in U19 World Cup history. Aaron led the charge with a brilliant 115 runs off 104 balls, demonstrating impeccable timing and shot placement.

He received solid support from Suryavanshi (68 runs off 33 balls) and Mhatre (62 runs off 59 balls), maintaining a run rate exceeding seven throughout the innings.

Sooryavanshi provided a rapid start, hitting several boundaries, particularly against off-spinner Wahidullah Zadran.

Fortune smiled on him when Niazal dropped a catch at 22 runs off Abdul Aziz, but Sooryavanshi continued to play aggressively, even executing a stunning helicopter shot six off pacer Nooristani Omarzai.

Despite his aggressive play, Sooryavanshi's innings ended at 93 runs, but Aaron then partnered with Mhatre to add another 114 runs in just over 17 overs, pushing India past the 200 mark by the 27th over.

Mhatre, who had struggled earlier in the tournament, found his rhythm at a crucial moment, showcasing a full range of shots.

Aaron played the anchor role flawlessly, allowing Mhatre to take risks and keep the scoring rate high.

Even after Mhatre's dismissal, Aaron remained composed, continuing to bat with elegance and precision.

His batting style was aesthetically pleasing, with no aggressive shots, as he executed cover drives and lofted shots with remarkable ease.

Aaron reached his century in 95 balls with a beautiful shot past mid-wicket for four runs.

He and Vihan Malhotra formed a solid partnership, adding 96 runs for the third wicket as India cruised towards victory, although Aaron could not witness the final moments of the match.

Earlier, Afghanistan's innings was anchored by Shinozada and Niazai, who both scored magnificent centuries, setting a challenging total.

Faisal top-scored with 110 runs off 93 balls, while Niazai contributed an unbeaten 101 runs off 86 balls, as Indian bowlers struggled to take wickets consistently.

Afghanistan started strong, with the opening pair of Sadat and Khalid Ahmadzai putting together 53 runs before pacer Deepesh Devendran claimed the first wicket in the 13th over.

Ahmadzai scored 31 runs off 39 balls, and Faisal then added 64 runs for the second wicket with Sadat, establishing a solid foundation for Afghanistan's total.

However, Indian all-rounder Kanishk Chouhan struck early in the 25th over, dismissing Sadat, who scored 39 runs off 70 balls.