India Under19s stormed into the final of the U19 Asia Cup after a commanding seven-wicket victory over Sri Lanka Under-19s in the second semi-final at Sharjah. The win sets up a mouthwatering clash with Bangladesh in the title decider.
Chasing a modest target of 174, India made light work of Sri Lanka’s bowling attack, reaching 175/3 in just 21.4 overs. The chase was anchored by a scintillating knock from Player of the Match Vaibhav Suryavanshi, who hammered a blistering 67 off 36 balls, including six boundaries and five sixes.
Opening with Ayush Mhatre, Suryavanshi ensured India got off to a flying start. The duo added a rapid 91-run opening stand before Mhatre departed for a well-made 34 off 28 balls. Suryavanshi’s aggressive strokeplay kept India ahead of the required run rate, allowing the middle order to comfortably see off the remaining runs. Captain Mohamed Amaan contributed an unbeaten 25, while KP Karthikeya added 11 not out to seal the win with a staggering 170 balls to spare.
Earlier, Sri Lanka had opted to bat but could not really take any strong pace ahead against India’s well-guarded bowling. They got bowled out for 173 in 46.2 overs. The first half of the innings started very poorly as Sri Lanka lost three wickets without scoring eight runs in just the first four overs. Here, pacer Chetan Sharma (3/34) and Ayush Mhatre (2/37) were very good with the top order.
Sharujan Shanmuganathan (42) and Lakvin Abeysinghe (69) tried to stabilize the innings with a 93-run partnership for the fourth wicket. Abeysinghe’s patient knock of 110 balls was the lone bright spot for Sri Lanka, but he received little support from the lower order.
India’s bowling continued to build pressure by all means as Kiran Chormale (2/32) and Yudhajit Guha (1/19) contributed valuable wickets in the later stages for Sri Lanka’s middle and lower order collapse as the line was good and the length consistent at times.
The win again marks India’s all-round prowess and will set up an exciting final against Bangladesh. With their confidence high and players in form, India will look to clinch the trophy in what is sure to be an action-packed contest.
Important Statistics:
Top Scorer: Vaibhav Suryavanshi (IND) – 67 (36 balls).
Best Bowler: Chetan Sharma (IND) – 3 wickets for 34 runs.
Sri Lanka’s Best Player: Lakvin Abeysinghe – 69 (110 balls).
Match to watch: December 8 India vs. Bangladesh in U19 Asia Cup final.
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