In a thrilling display of batting prowess, India’s Under-19 team etched their name in history by chasing down a mammoth 311-run target against Afghanistan in the semi-final of the 2026 Under-19 World Cup. The victory, secured with seven wickets in hand at Harare Sports Club, propels India into their 10th final appearance.
Afghanistan, electing to bat first after winning the toss, posted 310 for four in their 50 overs. Openers faltered early, losing both to India at 117 runs, but a sensational 148-run partnership between Uzairullah Niyazi and Faisal Shinwari rescued the innings. Shinwari smashed 110 off 93 balls with 15 fours, while Niyazi remained not out on 101 from 86 deliveries, featuring 12 boundaries and two sixes. India’s Deepesh Devendran and Kanisk Chauhan claimed two wickets each to keep the score in check.
Chasing 311, India lost early momentum but Aaron George anchored the innings with a masterful 115 off 104 balls, laced with 15 fours and two sixes. Vaibhav Suryavanshi exploded for 68 off 33, and skipper Ayush Mhatre contributed a crucial 62. The target fell in just 41.1 overs, shattering New Zealand’s 2006 record of 305 against Ireland.
This match aggregated 621 runs, the second-highest in U19 World Cup playoffs, trailing only the 631 from Australia vs Ireland in 2004. India now faces England in the final on February 6 at the same venue, aiming for another title triumph.