India Under-19 stormed into the final of the ACC Men’s U19 Asia Cup 2026 after registering a commanding eight-wicket victory over Afghanistan in the second semi-final at Al Amerat, Oman, on Thursday.
Chasing a target of 228, India completed the run chase in just 36.5 overs, finishing at 230/2 with 13.1 overs to spare. The victory sets up a high-profile final against arch-rivals Pakistan, scheduled for Saturday, November 14.
Captain Lakshya Raichandani led India’s batting effort with an impressive 93 off 90 deliveries, while Aaryavir Sehwag and VK Vineeth chipped in with crucial half-centuries to ensure a comfortable finish.
Earlier, Afghanistan, who elected to bat after winning the toss, posted 227/8 in their allotted 50 overs. The side appeared to be building a competitive total at 143/3 in the 36th over, but India’s bowlers tightened their grip during the final stages of the innings.
Noman Salarzai and Shah Faisal Rahimi top-scored for Afghanistan with 51 runs apiece, while captain Sohail Khan remained unbeaten on 36 off 44 balls.
For India, Ishan Sood delivered a key performance with the ball, picking up three wickets for 43 runs. Aryan Savsani also made an impact, claiming two wickets for 29 runs, including the dismissals of Amir Hamza and Tahir Sarwary in quick succession.
India’s reply was built around a strong opening partnership between Raichandani and Sehwag, who added 117 runs for the first wicket. Raichandani narrowly missed his century, departing after scoring 93, while Sehwag contributed 51 off 57 deliveries.
Vineeth then took charge of the chase, remaining unbeaten on 57 and striking a six in the 37th over to bring the contest to a close. Yashbardhan Chauhan supported him with an unbeaten 15.
With the emphatic semi-final win, India have secured a place in the title clash against Pakistan. The young Indian side will now aim to carry its momentum into Saturday’s final and claim the continental championship.
