India delivered an impressive all-round performance to defeat Afghanistan by eight wickets and secure a place in the final of the Under-19 Asia Cup in Muscat on Sunday. Led by Lakshya Raichandani, the Indian side controlled the semifinal with disciplined bowling and a confident batting display. Afghanistan, after opting to bat first, managed to post 227/8 in their allotted innings. Noman Salarzai and Shah Faisal Rahimi provided important contributions, scoring 51 runs each. However, India’s bowlers maintained tight lines and lengths, restricting the opposition’s scoring opportunities. Ishan Sood emerged as a key performer with three wickets for 43 runs, helping India keep Afghanistan from building a more challenging total. The victory also confirmed a highly anticipated final against arch-rivals Pakistan, scheduled for Saturday.
India’s chase was marked by an outstanding opening partnership that effectively settled the contest early. Raichandani returned to form with an impressive 93 from 90 deliveries after managing low scores in his previous two matches. His opening partner, Aaryavir Sehwag, continued his excellent run after scoring 160 in the previous game, contributing another valuable half-century with 51 off 57 balls. Following the dismissal of both openers, VK Vineeth remained unbeaten on 57 from 62 deliveries, while Yashbardhan Singh Chauhan scored 16 not out off 14 balls. The pair guided India to victory with 13.1 overs remaining, completing a convincing semifinal performance and setting up an exciting title clash against Pakistan.
