India March Into the U19 World Cup Final After Dominant Win Over Afghanistan
India’s Under-19 side once again proved why they are the gold standard of youth cricket, delivering a composed yet dominant performance to defeat Afghanistan and book their place in the ICC Men’s Under-19 Cricket World Cup 2026 final. The victory not only extended India’s unbeaten run in the tournament but also marked their record 10th appearance in a U19 World Cup final, underlining their incredible legacy at this level.
Facing a confident Afghanistan side dreaming of a maiden final, India showed maturity beyond their years — absorbing pressure, executing plans, and rising at crucial moments to seal a memorable semifinal win.
Afghanistan Post a Formidable Total
Winning the toss, Afghanistan Under-19 cricket team chose to bat first, and the decision initially paid dividends. Openers Osman Sadat and Khalid Ahmadzai laid a solid platform, negotiating India’s early bowling spell with patience and discipline.
Sadat, in particular, anchored the innings, grinding his way to 39 off 70 balls before being dismissed by Kanishk Chouhan. Afghanistan continued to rebuild through key partnerships, with Faisal Khan once again stepping up on the big stage.
The defining phase of Afghanistan’s innings came through a superb 148-run partnership between Faisal Khan and Uzairullah Niazai. Faisal brought up his second century of the tournament, showcasing composure and shot selection, while Niazai provided perfect support before accelerating late.
After Faisal’s dismissal, Niazai carried the momentum forward, eventually finishing unbeaten on 101, steering Afghanistan past the 300-run mark. Their final total of 310 was a serious test, especially on a surface that rewarded discipline and smart batting.
For India, the bowling effort was collective rather than dependent on one standout. Deepesh and Kanishk Chouhan picked up two wickets apiece, breaking partnerships at key moments and preventing Afghanistan from completely running away with the game.
India’s Chase Begins With Authority
Chasing 310 in a World Cup semifinal can test even the most seasoned teams — but India showed no signs of nerves.
From the very first ball, Aaron George made his intent clear, cracking a boundary to set the tone. He was soon joined by Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who played a breathtaking cameo of 68 off just 33 balls, blasting boundaries at will and putting Afghanistan on the back foot early.
India raced to 90 runs in just 9 overs, turning a challenging chase into a manageable one through fearless stroke play. Although Nooristani eventually removed Sooryavanshi to slow the momentum, the damage had already been done.
Aaron George Leads Like a Champion
If there was one performance that defined the match, it was Aaron George’s.
In a pressure-filled semifinal, George delivered a Player of the Match knock of 115 off 104 balls, an innings built on balance, intelligence, and authority. His century included 15 fours and 2 sixes, and more importantly, it brought calm to the chase.
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George first stitched together a vital 64-run partnership for the second wicket with skipper Ayush Mhatre, steadying India after the early fireworks. Later, he found another reliable ally in Vihaan Malhotra, who contributed a composed 38 not out off 47 balls.
Together, George and Malhotra added 96 runs, effectively shutting the door on any Afghan comeback. George eventually fell for 115, but by then, the equation was firmly in India’s favor.
Captain Ayush Mhatre Sets the Tone
India’s captain Ayush Mhatre led by example with a mature innings of 62 off 59 balls. Rather than chasing glory, Mhatre focused on strike rotation and partnerships, ensuring India never lost control of the chase.
His dismissal in the 27th over briefly raised hopes for Afghanistan, but India’s deep batting order and disciplined approach ensured there were no late stumbles.
Clinical Finish Seals the Final Spot
India eventually chased down the target in 41.1 overs, a testament to their batting depth and game awareness. The chase was not rushed, nor was it cautious — it was calculated, professional, and ruthless when required.
India vs Afghanistan: U19 World Cup Final Spot Secured With a Commanding Semi-Final Performance
For Afghanistan, the loss was heartbreaking. They showed resilience, quality, and growth throughout the tournament, pushing one of the strongest youth sides in the world to work hard for their place in the final.
Another Final, Another Chance at History
With this victory, India Under-19 cricket team marched into the final, where they will face England Under-19 cricket team on February 6 at the Harare Sports Club. England booked their spot earlier by defeating Australia in the first semifinal.
India have already lifted the U19 World Cup trophy five times, and this final presents an opportunity to add a sixth title to their glittering youth cricket legacy.
This semifinal wasn’t just about talent — it was about temperament. India absorbed Afghanistan’s best moments, trusted their process, and delivered when it mattered most.
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Led by Aaron George’s magnificent century and backed by a calm, collective effort, India once again showed why they are the benchmark of Under-19 cricket. One match now stands between them and another piece of history.
