Table of Contents

NEW DELHI: Aaron George's silken hundred, combined with explosive fifties from Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and Ayush Mhatre, guided India to the ICC U19 World Cup final with a commanding seven-wicket victory over Afghanistan on Wednesday.

India will now face England in the summit clash on Friday, marking their 10th final in the U19 showpiece, a testament to the BCCI’s structured junior cricket program that consistently unearths top talent.

U19 World Cup: Aaron George’s sensational century put India in control against Afghanistan

Afghanistan sets a big target

India appeared to face a daunting task once Afghanistan posted 310 for four, thanks to hundreds by Faisal Shinozada (110) and Uzairullah Niazal (101).

But India cruised past the target in 41.1 overs, completing their highest-ever chase in U19 World Cup history. George led the charge with a composed 115 off 104 balls, playing with impeccable pace and precision throughout his innings.

Partnerships drive the win

George received strong support from Sooryavanshi (68 off 33) and Mhatre (62 off 59), keeping the run rate above seven. Sooryavanshi gave India a flying start, particularly targeting off-spinner Wahidullah Zadran, even scoring a stunning helicopter six off pacer Nooristani Omarzai.

The opening stand ended at 93, but George and Mhatre added 114 runs in just over 17 overs, taking India past 200 by the 27th over. Mhatre, struggling for form in the tournament, timed his fifty perfectly, playing aggressively while George anchored the innings.

Elegant batting and closing stages

George’s innings was a blend of composure and aesthetic brilliance. Not a single shot was forced; his cover drives off Zadran and Roohullah Arab were textbook, and his lofted sixes flowed effortlessly. He reached his century in 95 balls with a crisp tuck past mid-wicket.

Later, George and Vihaan Malhotra added 96 runs for the third wicket, taking India to a comfortable win. Despite George falling short of seeing the finish line, his knock laid the foundation for a dominant chase.

Earlier, Afghanistan’s innings was powered by Shinozada and Niazal, who posted magnificent hundreds, but India’s all-round performance ensured they kept the run chase under control.