Indian opener Vaibhav Suryavanshi delivered a breathtaking knock against Afghanistan in the U19 World Cup semifinal, turning a challenging chase of 311 into a thrilling contest.
Afghanistan had posted a formidable 310/4, built around centuries from Faisal Shinozada (110) and Uzairullah Niazai (101*), setting a tough target for India's young side.
Vaibhav Suryavanshi dazzles for India U19
Suryavanshi, batting left-handed, came in with high expectations after some inconsistent performances earlier in the tournament. From the very first over, he showed fearless intent. In the second over, he smashed a short, wide delivery through the covers for four, immediately announcing his aggressive approach. His strike rate quickly climbed above 200 as he took apart the Afghan bowling attack.
Facing
Abdul Aziz, he produced a stunning over: three crisp boundaries followed by a towering six, racing to his fifty in just 24 balls-a remarkable display that left the crowd spellbound. The innings was a perfect blend of power and precision, featuring nine fours and four sixes. He pulled short deliveries with authority, played cheeky upper-cuts over the keeper, and cleared the ropes with ease whenever the bowlers erred in length.
In partnership with Aaron George, Suryavanshi built a rapid 90-run opening stand in under ten overs, completely shifting the momentum in India's favour. By the end of the ninth over, India had raced to 84/0, making the 311-run target look well within reach.
India U19 in Control against Afghanistan
Suryavanshi's knock was more than just aggressive batting; it was a statement of intent from one of the youngest talents in world cricket. He scored 68 off 33 deliveries before getting dismissed, and since then, Aaron George and Ayush Mhatre have taken over for them. At the end of 26 overs, India U19 are 205 for 1 and George and Mhatre are batting on 65 and 62 respectively.
