A stunning 115 from Aaron George powers India past Afghanistan in the biggest chase in tournament history.
Harare | by Sara Amiri
India achieved a record-breaking run chase to defeat Afghanistan by seven wickets and secure a place in the ICC Men’s U19 Cricket World Cup 2026 final against England.
Afghanistan posted a formidable 310 for four in 50 overs, powered by centuries from Faisal Khan (110) and Uzairullah Niazai (101 not out). According to the match report, this marked only the second time in tournament history that two batters scored centuries in the same knockout innings. The pair shared a 148-run partnership, keeping India under immense pressure.
India’s reply required a history-making performance. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi set the tone with a brisk 68 off 33 balls, while Aaron George’s 115 off 104 deliveries anchored the chase. The report stated: “George finally departed with 300 on the board, but Vihaan Malhotra quickly wrapped things up on his way to 38 not out.”
Despite falling at 107 runs needed with the loss of Ayush Mhatre (62), India capitalized on key reprieves and maintained a controlled, aggressive approach. The chase concluded in 41.1 overs, leaving India with a seven-wicket victory and a historic record for the largest successful run chase in U19 World Cup semi-finals.
Scores in brief:
- Afghanistan 310/4 – Faisal Khan 110, Uzairullah Niazai 101*; Kanishk Chouhan 2/55, Deepesh Devendran 2/64
- India 311/3 – Aaron George 115, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi 68, Ayush Mhatre 62; Nooristani Omarzai 2/64, Wahid Zadran 1/67