India clinched a spot in the U-19 Asia Cup 2025 final after a crushing eight-wicket win over Sri Lanka at the ICC Academy Ground in Dubai on December 19. This victory sets the stage for a highly anticipated summit clash against arch-rivals Pakistan on Sunday, after Pakistan defeated Bangladesh in the other semifinal to confirm their own spot in the title match.
India vs Pakistan in U-19 Asia Cup final
In a semifinal encounter reduced to 20 overs per side due to a wet outfield, India demonstrated remarkable dominance and determination to secure their place in the U-19 Asia Cup final. Chasing a target of 139, the Indian side reached the finish line with two overs to spare, finishing at 139/2.
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India's chase began with some early tension after the dismissal of openers Ayush Mhatre and Vaibhav Suryavanshi for 7 and 9 runs, respectively. However, these early breakthroughs were the only success the Sri Lankan bowlers would find. Following the fall of the second wicket, Aaron George and Vihaan Malhotra took control of the game, frustrating the Lankan attack and ensuring India stayed on track for the win. The duo orchestrated a brilliant, unbeaten partnership of 114 runs to guide their side home with ease. Vihaan Malhotra was particularly aggressive, punishing the bowlers with 61 runs off just 45 balls, while Aaron George played a vital supporting role to finish unbeaten on 58.
India bowlers keep Islanders in check
After being invited to bat first, the Sri Lanka Under-19 team found it difficult to establish any real momentum against a highly disciplined Indian bowling unit. The pressure was applied early on as India claimed key wickets during the powerplay, leaving the Sri Lankan top order reeling and the team firmly on the back foot from the start of the innings.
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While the situation looked dire, Sri Lanka showed brief signs of a recovery through the efforts of Sethmika Seneviratne and Chamika Heenatigala. The duo managed to steady the ship with a vital partnership during the middle overs, successfully pushing the score past the 100-run milestone. However, their resistance was short-lived as the Indian bowlers continued to strike at regular intervals, preventing any significant acceleration in the scoring rate.
Ultimately, Sri Lanka concluded their 20 overs with a modest total of 138 for 8. Despite the gritty middle-order stand, the final score appeared to be well below par for what was considered a favorable batting surface. The lack of a late-innings surge left the bowlers with a difficult task as they prepared to defend a low target against a confident Indian batting lineup.
India chase down target with 12 balls to spare
India’s pursuit of the 139-run target began on a shaky note as they lost two early wickets, providing Sri Lanka with a glimmer of hope. However, any brewing tension was quickly dispelled by Vihaan Malhotra and Aaron George, who stepped up to restore order. The pair displayed remarkable maturity and intelligent shot selection, initially focusing on a patient rebuild before gradually shifting gears to seize total control of the semi-final.
The duo's unbeaten partnership effortlessly steered India past the 100-run mark and through to the finish line without further setbacks. Their clinical performance ensured a professional and comfortable victory, underscoring India's overall dominance in the match. By completing the chase with such ease, the team has sent a strong message as they head into the high-stakes title decider.