India storm into Under-19 Asia Cup final, set up Pakistan clash
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Muscat: India stormed into the Under-19 Asia Cup final after defeating Afghanistan by eight wickets in Thursday’s semi-final at Al Amerat in Oman. Captain Lakshya Raichandani’s commanding 93 powered the chase, setting up a title clash with arch-rivals Pakistan on Saturday. The final will also give India a chance to avenge its group-stage defeat to Pakistan.
Chasing 228, India reached 230 for two in 36.5 overs. Lakshya and Aaryavir Sehwag laid the foundation with a 117-run opening stand. Sehwag made 51 off 57 balls, while Lakshya struck 93 from 90 deliveries, hitting 13 fours and a six before falling seven runs short of a century. V.K. Vineeth remained unbeaten on 57, and Yashbardhan Singh Chauhan was not out on 16 as India completed the chase comfortably.
Earlier, Afghanistan posted 227 for eight after opting to bat. Noman Salarzai and Shah Faisal Rahimi scored 51 each, while captain Sohail Khan contributed an unbeaten 36. Ishan Sood led India’s bowling with three wickets; Aryan Savsani took two.
Pakistan booked the other final spot with a nine-wicket win over Bangladesh. Bangladesh were dismissed for 138 in 31.4 overs, with Rizwanullah taking five wickets for 30 runs. Pakistan reached 141 for one in 21.5 overs, led by Hayam Khan’s 69 and Usman Khan’s unbeaten 64.
The final is scheduled for November 14 at 10.30 am Indian time at Al Amerat. Pakistan will carry the confidence of its earlier win over India, but the Indian side will be aiming to turn the tables after its dominant semi-final display.