India Under-19 booked their place in the ICC U19 World Cup Final with a commanding 7-wicket victory over Afghanistan U19 in yesterday’s semifinal.
Batting first, Afghanistan U19 produced a massive total of 310/4, but it ultimately proved insufficient against India’s powerful batting unit.
Two Afghan batters struck centuries. Faisal Shinwazada smashed 110 off 93 balls, while Usairullah Niazai added 101 off 86 deliveries in a superb display of attacking cricket.
For India, Deepesh Devendran and Kanishk Chauhan picked up 2 wickets each.
In reply, India’s young stars chased the target with confidence, reaching 311/3 in just 41.1 overs.
Opener Aaron George led the charge with a brilliant 115 off 104 balls, while Vaibhav Suryavanshi gave a flying start with 68 off only 33 balls.
Captain Ayush Mhatre contributed a steady 62, and Vihaan Malhotra remained unbeaten on 38 to seal the victory.
With this win, India U19 advance to the World Cup Final, where they are set to face England U19 in the title clash.
