U19 World Cup: Vaibhav rises to the occasion with 33-ball 68 in semi-final

India Under-19 opener Vaibhav Sooryavanshi once again underlined his big-match temperament with a breathtaking 33-ball 68 that put India firmly on course in the Under-19 World Cup 2026 semi-final against Afghanistan at the Harare Sports Club on Wednesday.

Chasing a daunting target of 311, the 14-year-old left-hander set the tone from the outset, racing to a half-century off just 24 deliveries. His aggressive intent ensured India stayed comfortably ahead of the required run rate in what was shaping up to be a record chase, easing pressure on the rest of the batting line-up.

Vaibhav’s innings was marked by clean and powerful strokeplay. He struck nine fours and four sixes, with 44 of his runs coming in boundaries before bringing up his fifty. The knock continued his consistent run in the tournament, taking his tally to 196 runs from five matches, with half-centuries against Bangladesh in the group stage, Zimbabwe in the Super Six, and now Afghanistan in the knockout clash.

India’s chase gained early momentum through a solid opening stand, with Vaibhav and Aaron George adding 90 runs in just 57 balls. The partnership ensured India remained in control despite the steep target set by Afghanistan.

Vaibhav’s stay ended when Nooristani Omarzai induced a false stroke with a short ball outside off stump. Attempting the pull, the batter top-edged the delivery, which was safely taken by Osman Sadat at mid-wicket. Visibly disappointed, Vaibhav covered his face as he walked back, aware of the impact his innings had already made. He was dismissed for 68, an effort that had firmly swung the momentum India’s way.

Earlier, Afghanistan Under-19 posted an imposing 310 for 4, powered by centuries from Faisal Shinozada and Uzairullah Niazai, setting up a stiff challenge for the Indian side.