Dubai’s weather has become the primary antagonist at the U-19 Asia Cup 2025, with relentless rain threatening to wash out the crucial semifinal between India U-19 and Sri Lanka U-19. The ongoing downpour has turned the ICC Academy Ground into a sodden mess, leaving the fate of the match uncertain.
Both scheduled semifinals were delayed on Friday morning due to the waterlogged conditions. The toss for the India vs. Sri Lanka game, along with the Bangladesh vs. Pakistan fixture, could not take place as planned. Officials are keeping a close watch, but the possibility of a 20-over match, which must start by 3:30 PM IST, is increasingly slim.
A critical aspect of the U-19 Asia Cup regulations is the absence of reserve days for the semifinal stage. This rule elevates the importance of group stage performance, as it dictates progression in case of unavoidable match cancellations.
In the event of a washout, India U-19 is well-positioned to progress to the final. They concluded the group stage as the undisputed leader of Group A, having won all their matches convincingly. Their dominant run against UAE, Pakistan, and Malaysia showcases a team in formidable form. Consequently, if rain halts play against Sri Lanka, India’s top-ranked group finish will see them automatically book their place in the final.
India’s campaign has been a masterclass in cricketing excellence. They recorded massive totals, including over 430 against UAE thanks to Vaibhav Suryavanshi’s spectacular 171, and another score exceeding 400 against Malaysia, powered by Abhigyan Kundu’s double century. Their bowling unit has also been potent, securing a significant victory over Pakistan.
Sri Lanka U-19 secured their semifinal berth by finishing second in Group B. They demonstrated tenacity with wins against Nepal and Afghanistan, though they suffered a defeat against Bangladesh. The current weather poses a significant hurdle for their aspirations.
Should the India-Sri Lanka semifinal be abandoned, and the Bangladesh-Pakistan match also falls victim to the rain, the final would likely be contested between the top teams from each group: India and Bangladesh. This would set up an exciting conclusion to the tournament.
As a prelude to the U-19 World Cup in January 2026, the Asia Cup provides valuable experience. India’s dominant displays and robust squad suggest they are well-prepared for the challenges ahead, regardless of external factors like weather.