India has clinched their place in the U-19 Asia Cup Final with a decisive seven-wicket win over Sri Lanka in the semi-final on December 6, propelled by the extraordinary batting of 13-year-old sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi.
Choosing to bat first after winning the toss, Sri Lanka found it challenging to make the most of their decision. India’s bowlers, spearheaded by Chetan Sharma with an impressive 3/32 spell and ably assisted by Kiran Chomle’s 2/32, reined in the opposition. Despite resilient innings from Lakvin Abeysinghe and Sharujan Shanmuganathan, Sri Lanka set a modest target of 173 runs, which India’s powerful batsmen easily overcame.
Vaibhav Suryavanshi, recently signed by the Rajasthan Royals, shone during the chase. The young prodigy showed exceptional poise and aggression, blasting 67 runs off just 36 balls. His audacious stroke-making from the outset tore apart the Sri Lankan bowlers, putting India firmly in command. His boundary-laden innings made the chase seem effortless.
India reached their target in a mere 21 overs, asserting their supremacy and signaling their intent to the contenders for the final. This resounding victory extends the Indian U-19 team’s undefeated streak in the tournament, reinforcing their status as the team to beat.
Pakistan U19 was eliminated from the Asia Cup after a defeat by Bangladesh. They lost their opening batsmen early and couldn’t recover from the poor start, managing only 116 runs.
Bangladesh U19 also lost some early wickets but remained in the game. They reached the target of 117 in just 22.1 overs.
India U19 will face Bangladesh U19 in the Junior Asia Cup final on Sunday (December 8), at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium starting at 10:30 AM IST.
India U19 secured second place in Group A with two victories out of three games, despite a loss to Pakistan in the group stage. They will not have a chance for retribution in this tournament. Bangladesh U19 won both of their group stage matches.
