India Under-19 opener Vaibhav Sooryavanshi delivered another statement innings on the big stage, smashing a blistering 33-ball 68 to put India firmly in control of their Under-19 World Cup 2026 semi-final against Afghanistan at the Harare Sports Club on Wednesday.
Chasing a stiff target of 311, the 14-year-old left-hander launched the pursuit with fearless intent, reaching his half-century in just 24 balls. His rapid scoring kept India well ahead of the required rate in what was shaping up as a record chase, allowing the rest of the batting line-up to play with freedom.
Vaibhav’s knock was built on clean, authoritative strokeplay. He struck nine fours and four sixes, with 44 of his runs coming in boundaries before he brought up his fifty. The innings extended his impressive run in the tournament, taking him to 196 runs from five matches, with half-centuries against Bangladesh in the group stage, Zimbabwe in the Super Six, and Afghanistan in the semi-final.
India made full use of the flying start, with Vaibhav and fellow opener Aaron George adding 90 runs in just 57 balls. The opening stand ensured India remained firmly on track despite the demanding target set by Afghanistan.
Vaibhav’s stay ended when Nooristani Omarzai tempted him with a short delivery outside off stump. Attempting the pull, he top-edged the ball and was caught by Osman Sadat at mid-wicket. Though visibly disappointed on his way back, Vaibhav had already shifted the momentum decisively in India’s favour.
Earlier, Afghanistan Under-19 posted an imposing 310 for 4, riding centuries from Faisal Shinozada and Uzairullah Niazai to set up a formidable challenge.
Comments are closed.