SPORTS REPORTER
MUSCAT, NOV 12
India will meet arch-rivals Pakistan in the final of the 2026 ACC Men’s Under-19 Asia Cup after defeating Afghanistan in the second semifinal at the Oman Cricket Academy in Al Amerat on Thursday.
India secured their place in Saturday’s final with a convincing performance, setting up another high-profile contest against Pakistan, who booked their place earlier in the day with a nine-wicket victory over Bangladesh.
In the first semifinal, Bangladesh were bowled out for 138 in 31.4 overs after Pakistan’s bowlers restricted their progress. Pakistan then chased down the target comfortably, scoring 141 for the loss of one wicket in just 21.5 overs.
The victory extended Pakistan’s unbeaten run in the tournament to four matches, having finished the group stage with three consecutive wins over the UAE, India and Nepal.
In the second semifinal, India produced a strong batting performance against Afghanistan, who had opted to bat first. Lakshya Raichandani led the Indian innings with an impressive 93 off 90 deliveries, providing the foundation for his side’s total.
Arya Viraj Sehrawat also made a valuable contribution, scoring 51 off 57 balls, while VK Vinith remained unbeaten on 57 from 62 deliveries to strengthen India’s position.
Afghanistan had earlier posted a competitive total, with Shah Faisal Rahimi and Numan Salarzai both scoring 50 runs in their innings.
India’s qualification sets up a repeat of their group-stage encounter with Pakistan, who defeated their rivals by three wickets on November 8. India had scored 208 runs before Pakistan reached 209 for the loss of seven wickets.
Pakistan, led by Farhan Yousaf, topped Group A with six points, while India finished second with four points. Afghanistan dominated Group B, also collecting six points from three victories, with Bangladesh advancing in second place.
The 13th edition of the tournament is being hosted by Oman from November 5 to 14, featuring eight teams: Oman, Pakistan, India, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, the UAE, Nepal and Malaysia. The competition is organised by the Asian Cricket Council in cooperation with the Oman Cricket Association.
The final will be played on Saturday, November 14, at Oman Cricket Academy in Amerat, starting at 9 am Oman time.
Pakistan will be aiming to retain their continental crown after defeating India in last year’s final by 191 runs.
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