HARARE — In a breathtaking display of power-hitting and nerve, India stormed into the final of the ICC Under-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup with a record-breaking, four-wicket victory over a valiant Afghanistan side at the Queens Sports Club on Tuesday.
Chasing a daunting 244, India’s young colts, led by a scintillating 81 from captain Uday Saharan and a blistering, unbeaten 50 from Sachin Dhas, overhauled the target with just eight balls to spare. The total marks the highest successful run-chase in the history of the Under-19 World Cup knockout stages, shattering the previous record and underlining the team’s formidable batting depth.
A Semi-Final Worthy of the Occasion
The stage was set for a classic semi-final clash. Afghanistan, having impressed throughout the tournament, won the toss and elected to bat on a surface that offered assistance to the bowlers. Their innings was a story of resilience, built around a magnificent century from opener Hassan Eisakhil, who anchored the innings with a composed 110.India’s pace spearhead, Raj Limbani, struck early blows, but Eisakhil found able allies in Arshin Kulkarni and later in the lower order. Afghanistan’s final total of 243/8 felt competitive, especially given India’s occasional struggles against spin and the high-pressure context of a World Cup semi-final.
The Record Chase: Grit Meets Flair
India’s reply began shakily, losing top-order prodigy Arshin Kulkarni early. When Adarsh Singh and Musheer Khan fell in quick succession, India found themselves in a precarious position at 32/4 in the 11th over. The Afghan spinners, led by the crafty Naseer Khan, had their tails up, and the dream of a first-ever final for Afghanistan seemed a genuine possibility.This crisis brought together captain Uday Saharan and the explosive Sachin Dhas at the crease. What followed was a masterclass in partnership building under extreme pressure. Saharan, playing the anchor role to perfection, rotated the strike and punished the loose deliveries. Dhas, initially cautious, gradually unleashed his array of strokes. Their 171-run stand for the fifth wicket not only rescued India but decisively shifted the momentum.
Saharan’s knock was a study in temperament, while Dhas provided the fireworks. Speaking after the match, Player of the Match Sachin Dhas highlighted the team’s mindset: "The plan was simple – build a partnership. We knew if we batted through the overs, we could chase this down. Uday bhai kept telling me to play my natural game, and that gave me confidence."
Key Moments that Defined the Match
The match turned on several pivotal moments that showcased the fine margins at this level of competition:- The Saharan-Dhas Partnership: From 32/4 to 203/5, this stand broke the back of the chase.
- Afghanistan's Missed Chance: A difficult dropped catch of Dhas when he was on 40 proved extremely costly.
- Limbani's Crucial Spell: His early wickets (3/55) restricted Afghanistan from posting a truly mammoth total.
Captain Saharan Leads from the Front
Uday Saharan’s leadership has been a cornerstone of India’s campaign. His 81 in the semi-final was his fourth consecutive fifty-plus score in the tournament, making him the leading run-scorer. His calm demeanor under fire filtered through the team. "We never thought we were out of the game," Saharan stated in the post-match presentation. "Even at 32/4, we believed in our batting depth. This is a special win for us."A Final Showdown with England Awaits
With this historic win, India advances to its fifth consecutive Under-19 World Cup final, where it will face defending champions England. The final, set for Sunday in Benoni, South Africa, is a repeat of the 2022 title clash, which England won. India will be seeking a record-extending sixth title, while England aims to become the first team to successfully defend the crown since Pakistan in 2006.The England team, led by Ben McKinney, secured their place with a commanding victory over hosts South Africa. They possess a balanced side with potent fast bowlers and dynamic batters, setting the stage for a thrilling contest. Indian coach Hrishikesh Kanitkar acknowledged the challenge ahead, saying, "England are a very strong side, the defending champions. We will analyze their strengths and prepare accordingly. The boys have shown great character."
Conclusion: A Testament to Nerve and Talent
India’s victory over Afghanistan was more than just a semi-final win; it was a statement of intent and a demonstration of the incredible talent pipeline in Indian cricket. To recover from 32/4 and chase down a record total in a World Cup knockout match requires a unique blend of skill and mental fortitude.While Afghanistan’s dream ended in heartbreak, their performance earned universal praise and signaled their arrival as a major force in age-group cricket. For India, the mission is one step from completion. The stage is now set for a titanic final clash against England, where this group of young Indian stars will look to etch their names into history and reclaim the World Cup trophy.