Harare, February 4: India has made history by defeating Afghanistan by seven wickets in the semi-final of the U-19 World Cup 2026, securing a place in the final. The Indian team successfully chased down a target of 311 runs, marking the highest successful chase in U-19 World Cup history.
Winning the toss at Harare Sports Club, the Afghan team batted first, scoring 310 runs while losing four wickets. In response, India achieved the target in just 41.1 overs. This victory broke New Zealand’s record of 305 runs set in 2006 against Ireland.
South Africa ranks third on this list, having chased down a target of 294 runs against Bangladesh in 2022. The West Indies previously chased 292 runs against Sri Lanka in 2010.
The match saw a combined total of 621 runs, making it the second-highest aggregate in U-19 World Cup playoff history. The highest remains the 631 runs scored in the 2004 match between Australia and Ireland in Chattogram.
In this match, Afghanistan lost both openers, Khalid Ahmadzai (31) and Usman Sadat, by the time they reached 117 runs. However, Uzairullah Niazi and Faisal Shinizada formed a formidable partnership, scoring 148 runs off 130 balls. Faisal scored 110 runs off 93 balls, while Niazi contributed 101 runs from 86 balls, including two sixes and 12 fours. For India, Deepesh Devendran and Kanishk Chauhan each took two wickets.
In reply, India secured victory in 41.1 overs. Aaron George was the standout performer, scoring 115 runs off 104 balls with two sixes and 15 fours. Vaibhav Suryavanshi added 68 runs off just 33 balls, while captain Ayush Mhatre contributed 62 runs.
With this win, India has reached the title match for the tenth time, where they will face England on February 6 at Harare Sports Club.
