India U19 to meet Afghanistan in Men’s U19 Asia Cup 2026 semi-final after 70-run win over UAE

India’s Under-19 side beat the United Arab Emirates by 70 runs to finish second in Group A and will face Group B toppers Afghanistan in a Men’s U19 Asia Cup 2026 semi-final on Thursday, November 12 at the Al Amerat Cricket Ground in Oman.

In India’s final group match the UAE won the toss and elected to bowl. Noorullah Ayobi removed skipper Lakshya Raichandani in the 14th over, but a second-wicket stand of 193 between Aaryavir Sehwag and VK Vineeth anchored India’s innings. Sehwag scored 160 off 168 balls and became the highest run scorer in the competition; India finished on 309 after 50 overs.

Chasing 310, Ahmed Khudadad top-scored for the UAE with 74 but his effort was not enough as the visitors were beaten by 70 runs. India employed seven different bowling options and every bowler claimed at least one wicket, while Ishan Sood finished with four wickets.

Afghanistan completed Group B with a perfect record of three wins from three matches to finish top. Their campaign included a 113-run victory over Bangladesh in their opening game.

Afghanistan also recorded a one-sided win over Malaysia, bowling the Malaysians out for 42 and completing the chase in three overs, and defeated Sri Lanka by 106 runs in their final group match; they are one of only two unbeaten teams in the tournament.

The semi-final between India and Afghanistan is confirmed for Thursday, November 12 at the Al Amerat Cricket Ground in Oman; the other semi-final will be contested between Pakistan and Bangladesh.