U-19 World Cup: George’s Stunning Century, Mhatre and Vaibhav Suryawanshi Spark India to Record 10th Final with 311-Run Chase

Team India has stormed into the U-19 World Cup final for a record 10th time after defeating Afghanistan in a thrilling semi-final clash. The Men in Blue will face England in the final.

India Achieves Historic Chase in Semifinal
In the second semi-final of the U-19 World Cup, India chased down a massive target of 311 runs against Afghanistan, losing just three wickets and winning the match by seven wickets. This victory marks India’s 10th appearance in a U-19 World Cup final, setting a new record in the tournament’s history.

Aaron George Shines with a Match-Winning Century
Opening batsman Aaron George emerged as the hero for India with a brilliant century under pressure. Despite the daunting target, India never appeared to be under threat from the very first over. Vaibhav Suryawanshi provided an explosive start with 68 runs off just 33 balls, followed by captain Ayush Mhatre, who scored 62, forming a 100+ run partnership with George. George reached his century in just 95 balls and eventually fell for 115. The innings was rounded off by Vihan Malhotra (38) and Vedant Trivedi (5) to seal India’s emphatic win.

Afghanistan’s Batters Make History
Earlier, Afghanistan posted a massive 310/4 in 50 overs, thanks to a remarkable display of batting. The innings was anchored by opener Faisal Shinozada, who played a controlled yet aggressive knock of 110 runs, putting India on the back foot.

Uzairellah Niyazai continued the assault, smashing 101* off just 86 balls with boundaries all around the ground. Their 148-run partnership helped Afghanistan achieve their highest-ever score in a U-19 World Cup semi-final. For India, Deepesh Devendran and Kanishk Chauhan took 2 wickets each.

India’s Legacy in U-19 World Cups
India has won the U-19 World Cup five times (2000, 2008, 2012, 2018, and 2022) and finished as runners-up four times, most recently in 2024, when they lost to defending champions Australia. With this record 10th final appearance, India now aims to reclaim the title.