U19 World Cup 2026, IND vs AFG: The India Under-19 cricket team made an incredible achievement by successfully chasing a target of 311 runs during the semi-final of the U19 Cricket World Cup 2026 and will move on to play for the chance to win the tournament, with Aaron George making a brilliant century (100 runs).
IND vs AFG Record Chase: India Overhaul 311 With Ease
While chasing a total of 311, which has never been chased before in the history of the Under-19 World Cup 2026, India achieved the target with 53 balls to spare, as they completed the match in just 41.1 overs. The Indian top order performed in unison, leaving Afghanistan stunned with what seemed to be a match-winning total.
Aaron George Anchors the Innings With a Classy Century
Aaron George was the pillar of India’s chase, and his innings was a perfect example of a technically correct knock. George, who was dropped early in his innings, made Afghanistan pay for their mistake with some excellent stroke play and defensive skills.
Runs: 100
Balls faced: 94
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Highlight: Classy driving, serenity, and sound tactical judgement
With George collecting a hundred, India maintained full control over the run chase and were almost certain of winning the game.
Fast Start: Sooryawanshi’s Explosive Start Sets the Tone
Vaibhav Sooryawanshi blew the doors off with a blistering 33-ball 68. After being dropped initially by the Afghan fielders, he came back with an aggressive approach to hitting the ball to the boundary:
Fifty off just 24 balls
Fierce attack on spin and pace
India reached 73/0 in just seven overs
His aggressive game plan nullified the Afghan bowling strategy and turned the momentum completely in India’s favour.
Captain Ayush Mhatre Steps Up When It Matters
Captain Ayush Mhatre, who had a quiet tournament, delivered when it mattered. Walking in after Sooryavanshi’s departure, Mhatre made sure that the chase remained on course:
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- Half-century off 43 balls
- Clean striking with early sixes
- Crisp partnership with Aaron George
- India reached 200 in the 25th over, which marked their dominance.
Afghanistan’s Strong Batting Display Goes in Vain
Earlier in the match, Afghanistan Under-19 had scored an impressive 310/4 on a flat wicket in Harare. Their batting effort was led by two magnificent centuries:
- Faisal Shinozada – 110
- Back-to-back centuries in the tournament
- Innovative batting displays, including ramps and reverse sweeps
- Marked his century with a “Siuuu”
- Uzairullah Niazai – 100
- Century in 85 balls
Contributed to Afghanistan’s 111 runs in the last 10 overs. Although it was a late show, Afghanistan’s score was not enough to withstand the onslaught of India’s batting.
Missed Chances Cost Afghanistan Dear
The Afghan bowlers and fielders were put under great duress when they dropped significant catches of both George and Sooryavanshi in the early part of the chase. The dropped catches were a huge blow to Afghanistan as India took control and never let up.
India Becomes A Finalist In The 10th U19 World Cup
With this type of performance, India has qualified for their 10th World Cup Final at the Under-19 level, furthering their claim as being at the top level of international cricket, even at this youth level. The historical result of the highest run chase will also be a defining moment in the history of the U-19 World Cup 2026.
Noteworthy Points From IND vs AFG U19 World Cup 2026 Match
Largest Achievable Come-Get-Em of All-Time
Shocking Match-Winning Score by Aaron George;
Huge Early-Game Scores;
Afghani’s High Scores Ruined Most by Poor Defensive Play.
