U-19 ODI World Cup: India to Clash With England in Final After Commanding Seven-Wicket Win Over Afghanistan

Harare (Zimbabwe):India stormed into the final of the Under-19 ODI Cricket World Cup after registering a dominant seven-wicket victory over Afghanistan in the second semifinal at Harare on Thursday. The win sets up a blockbuster summit clash against England, scheduled to be played on Friday.

Chasing a challenging target of 311 runs, the Indian colts delivered a composed and confident batting performance, reaching the target in 41.1 overs with the loss of just three wickets. The successful chase underlined India’s batting depth and aggressive intent throughout the tournament.

Aaron George starred with a magnificent 115 runs off 104 balls, anchoring the innings and steering India steadily towards victory. He was well supported by Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who played a blistering knock of 68 runs off just 33 deliveries, injecting momentum into the chase. Skipper Ayush Mhatre also played a crucial role, contributing a composed 62 off 59 balls to ensure there were no hiccups.

For Afghanistan, Nooristani Omarzai claimed two wickets, while Wahidullah Zadran picked up one wicket, but their efforts were not enough to halt India’s charge.

Earlier, after opting to bat first, Afghanistan posted a strong total of 310 for four in their allotted 50 overs. The Afghan innings was powered by centuries from Faisal Shinozada, who top-scored with 110 runs off 93 balls, and Uzairullah Niazai, who struck 101 runs off 86 balls. Their partnership laid a solid foundation and put India under pressure heading into

the chase.

For India, bowlers Deepesh Devendran and Kanishk Chouhan were the most effective, picking up two wickets each and preventing Afghanistan from accelerating further in the death overs.

Owing to his match-winning century, Aaron George was named Player of the Match for his outstanding performance.

In the first semifinal, England defeated defending champions Australia by 27 runs at Bulawayo, booking their place in the final against India.

India have remained unbeaten throughout the tournament, once again underlining their dominance at the youth level. The Men in Blue are the most successful team in U-19 World Cup history, having lifted the trophy a record five times — in 2000, 2008, 2012, 2018 and 2022. Australia follow with four titles.

With two strong teams set to battle for the crown, the India vs England final promises an exciting finish to the U-19 ODI World Cup.