A monumental chase propelled India’s U19 side into the World Cup final after a commanding seven-wicket victory over Afghanistan in Harare. By overhauled 311 in the 2026 semi-final, India not only advanced but also set a new benchmark for chasing in the tournament.
Batting first, Afghanistan compiled 310/4. Openers Khalid Ahmadzai and Usman Sadat departed by 117, but rescuers emerged in Faisal Shinwari (110 off 93, 15 fours) and Uzairullah Niyazi (101* off 86, 12×4, 2×6), their 148-run alliance proving vital. India’s Deepesh Devendran and Kanisk Chauhan took two wickets each.
India’s batsmen rose to the challenge spectacularly. Aaron George’s 115 (104 balls, 15×4, 2×6) was the standout, complemented by Vaibhav Suryavanshi (68 off 33) and Ayush Mhatre (62). The win in 41.1 overs broke New Zealand’s long-standing 305 record from 2006 vs Ireland.
Notably, 621 aggregate runs place this as the second-highest in U19 playoffs. India, now in their 10th final, prepares for England on February 6. This feat showcases the fearless approach defining modern Indian cricket youth.