In a commanding display at Harare Sports Club, India’s young guns crushed Afghanistan by 7 wickets in the U19 World Cup 2026 semi-final, propelled by Aaron George’s blistering century. This victory marks India’s 10th appearance in the final, where they will face England on February 6.
Afghanistan, electing to bat after winning the toss, posted a formidable 310/4. Openers Usman Sadat and Khalid Ahmadzai laid a solid foundation with a 53-run stand before Ahmadzai fell for 31. Sadat added 39, partnering with Faisal Shinwari for 64 runs to push the score to 117/2.
The Afghan middle order then exploded. Shinwari smashed 110 off 93 balls, laced with 15 fours, while Ujairullah Niyazi remained unbeaten on 101 from 86 deliveries, including 12 fours and 2 sixes. Their 148-run alliance off 130 balls proved daunting. India’s Deepesh Devendran and Kanisk Chauhan claimed 2 wickets each to keep some control.
Undeterred, India chased the target in just 41.1 overs. Vaibhav Suryavanshi and Aaron George erupted for 90 runs in 9.3 overs. Suryavanshi’s explosive 68 off 33 balls featured 9 fours and 4 sixes. George then anchored with captain Ayush Mhatre, adding 114 for the second wicket to cross 200.
Mhatre scored 62 off 59 balls with 5 fours and 4 sixes before departing. George, unbeaten no more, fell for 115 off 104 balls (15 fours, 2 sixes) after a 96-run stand with Vihaan Malhotra. Malhotra finished unbeaten on 38 off 47 balls, steering India home comfortably. Nooristani Umarzai took 2 wickets for Afghanistan, with Wahidullah Jandran claiming one.
India’s dominant chase showcases their depth and firepower, setting up an exciting final clash against England. Fans are buzzing with anticipation for another title tilt.