George’s century and Sooryavanshi’s explosive knock power seven-wicket win in Harare thriller
Harare: India Under-19 scripted history in Harare with a record-breaking chase to defeat Afghanistan Under-19 by seven wickets and book a place in their tenth ICC U19 World Cup final.
Afghanistan posted a formidable 310 for 4 in 50 overs, driven by back-to-back centuries from Faisal Shinozada (110) and Uzairullah Niazai (101). The pair anchored the innings with a composed partnership before accelerating late, adding 111 runs in the final ten overs. India’s bowlers, including Deepesh Devendran (2-64) and Kanishk Chouhan (2-55), picked up key wickets but struggled to contain Afghanistan on a batting-friendly surface.
Chasing 311, a target never before achieved in U19 World Cup history, India’s top order rose to the occasion. Openers Aaron George and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi gave India a flying start, adding 90 runs in just 57 balls. Sooryavanshi smashed a blistering 68 off 33 deliveries, while George anchored the innings with a classy 115, earning the Player of the Match award.
Captain Ayush Mhatre chipped in with a fluent 62, sharing a century stand with George to keep the chase firmly on track. Despite both George and Sooryavanshi being dropped early, Afghanistan failed to capitalise on those chances. Vihaan Malhotra and others ensured there were no late hiccups as India reached 311 for 3 in just 41.1 overs, with 53 balls to spare.
The emphatic win highlighted India’s depth, composure, and fearless batting approach, setting up another shot at U19 World Cup glory.
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