India Under-19 booked their spot in the
The result sets the stage for a highly anticipated final showdown against Pakistan this Saturday. This encounter offers India a chance to redeem themselves following their loss to their rivals in the previous tournament's championship match.
India's clinical bowling restricts Afghanistan
Afghanistan opted to bat first after winning the toss and initially appeared poised to set a formidable total. By the 36th over, they had reached 143/3, maintaining a platform that suggested a late-innings surge. However, the Indian bowling attack shifted the momentum decisively during the middle and death overs.
Ishan Sood spearheaded the effort with a return of 3/43, while Aryan Savsani proved equally effective, claiming 2/29. Savsani’s impact was particularly felt in a single over where he removed both Amir Hamza and Tahir Sarwary. Despite half-centuries from Noman Salarzai and Shah Faisal Rahimi, who both contributed 51 runs, Afghanistan struggled to accelerate against the disciplined pressure applied by the Indian bowlers. Captain Sohail Khan provided a late boost with an unbeaten 36 off 44 balls, but the team was ultimately restricted to 227/8.
Raichandani and Vineeth anchor successful chase
India’s pursuit of 228 was defined by a dominant opening partnership between Raichandani and Sehwag. The captain played with aggressive intent, frequently finding the boundary through the off-side, while Sehwag offered a composed presence at the other end. The duo put together a 117-run stand before Sehwag was dismissed for 51 off 57 deliveries.
Following the opening breakthrough, Raichandani continued to dictate terms alongside Vineeth. While the captain fell just seven runs short of a century, finishing with 93 off 90 balls, Vineeth ensured the momentum remained with India. He reached his own half-century and ultimately sealed the victory in emphatic fashion, striking a six off Noor Ali Niazi to finish unbeaten on 57. The comprehensive win confirms India's place in the final, where they will look to secure the title against Pakistan.
