India Storms into U-19 World Cup Final with Record Seven-Wicket Win over Afghanistan

Harare, Feb 2026 : Aaron George produced a stunning 115-run innings as India chased down a formidable 311 to defeat Afghanistan by seven wickets in the second semi-final of the 2026 ICC Men’s Under-19 World Cup at the Harare Sports Club on Wednesday, booking their spot in the final against England on February 6.

Chasing 311, India relied on George’s explosive 115 off 104 balls, which featured 15 boundaries and two sixes at a strike rate of 110.58. He received crucial support from Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who smashed 68 off 33 balls, and captain Ayush Mhatre, who contributed 62 off 39 balls, helping India complete the chase in just 41.1 overs with seven wickets in hand. This marks India’s 10th World Cup final appearance and their sixth consecutive in the Under-19 tournament.

George, who had struggled earlier in the tournament, rose to the occasion, forging a 90-run opening stand with Sooryavanshi. He then shared a 114-run partnership with Mhatre for the second wicket, followed by a 96-run stand with Vihaan Malhotra, who remained unbeaten on 38 off 47 balls, ensuring a seamless chase for India.

Earlier, Afghanistan set a challenging target of 310/4 in their allotted 50 overs, anchored by brilliant centuries from Faisal Shinozada and Uzairullah Niazai. Shinozada top-scored with 110 off 93 balls, hitting 15 boundaries, while Niazai remained unbeaten on 101 from 86 deliveries, striking 12 fours and two sixes.

The pair’s 148-run partnership for the third wicket proved crucial after opener Khalid Ahmadzai (31) and Osman Sadat (39) had provided a solid 53-run start. For India, pacer Deepesh Devendran and spinner Kanishk Chouhan claimed two wickets apiece, but the rest of the bowling attack struggled to contain the Afghan batters.

Once India’s top order clicked, the chase became commanding. Sooryavanshi’s quickfire knock, combined with the composed innings of George and Mhatre, ensured India reached the target with overs to spare, leaving Afghanistan to rue missed opportunities in the field, including two crucial drops of Sooryavanshi.

This dominant performance highlighted India’s batting depth and ability to handle pressure in high-stakes matches. Their consistent run in the tournament now sets up a thrilling final against England at the same venue.

Brief Scores: Afghanistan 310/4 (Faisal Shinozada 110, Uzairullah Niazai 101 not out; Kanishk Chouhan 2-55, Deepesh Devendran 2-64) lost to India 311/3 in 41.1 overs (Aaron George 115, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi 68, Ayush Mhatre 62; Nooristani Omarzai 2-64, Wahidullah Zadran 1-67) by seven wickets.

India’s commanding chase, led by George, not only displayed exceptional stroke play but also reinforced their status as five-time champions and a dominant force in Under-19 cricket.