Dominance defined India’s path to the U19 World Cup 2026 final after a resounding 7-wicket victory over Afghanistan in the second semi-final at Harare. Aaron George’s majestic 115 propelled the side to their 10th final berth, eyeing England on February 6.
Choosing to bat, Afghanistan amassed 310/4. The opening duo of Khalid Ahmadzai (31) and Usman Sadat (39) crafted 53 runs. Sadat’s exit prompted a 64-run stand with Faisal Shinwari, reaching 117/2.
Shinwari departed for a brilliant 110 (93 balls; 15 fours), but not before forging 148 runs with Ujairullah Niyazi’s unbeaten 101 (86 balls; 12 fours, 2 sixes). Deepesh Devendran and Kanisk Chauhan shared four wickets for India.
Tasked with 311, India responded with flair. The explosive start came from Vaibhav Suryavanshi’s 68 (33 balls; 9×4, 4×6) and George’s partnership yielding 90 in the powerplay. George then built 114 with captain Ayush Mhatre (62; 59 balls, 5×4, 4×6).
A final flourish with Vihaan Malhotra (38*; 47 balls) saw George to 115 (104 balls; 15×4, 2×6), wrapping the chase in 41.1 overs. Afghanistan managed only 3 wickets, led by Nooristani Umarzai’s brace.
India’s clinical performance signals their championship pedigree. The final against England promises high drama and skill.