U19 World Cup: Aaron's classy hundred carries India to final
The Hindu
Aaron's stunning century leads India to a record U19 World Cup final victory over Afghanistan, showcasing remarkable talent and teamwork.
Aaron George's silken hundred seamlessly merged with the explosive fifties from IPL stars Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and Ayush Mhatre, guiding India to the ICC U19 World Cup final with a seven-wicket win over Afghanistan here on Wednesday.
India now face England in the summit clash here on Friday. It will be India's 10th final in the U19 showpiece, a testimony to BCCI's structured junior cricket programme that unearths serious talent.
India seemed to have a tough task ahead once Afghanistan piled 310 for four, built around hundreds by Faisal Shinozada (110) and Uzairullah Niazal (101).
But India cantered past the target in 41.1 overs and it was also their highest-ever chase in the U19 World Cup. Aaron (115, 104b) led the chase with a hundred of impeccable pace and precision placements of his shots.
He received ample backing from Suryavanshi (68, 33b) and Mhatre (62, 59b) as India kept their run-rate above seven all the while.
As is his vaunt, Sooryavanshi gave a flying start to India’s innings with a flurry of boundaries, mainly off off-spinner Wahidullah Zadran.
Smriti Mandhana and Shubman Gill win BCCI's top awards for their exceptional performances in the 2024-2025 cricket season.
Rajnath Singh advocates for stronger public-private partnerships to enhance India's sports economy and global identity, especially in polo.
Kimi Antonelli's historic victory at the Chinese Grand Prix signals a thrilling future for Mercedes and intense internal competition.
Penalty-corner conversion is a real concern for Indian women’s team
Pooja wins women's high jump at Indian Open, while Baranica and Mubassina excel in pole vault and long jump.
Gopi Thonakal aims to break the 48-year-old National marathon record while pursuing glory at the Asian Games.
Punjab FC seeks improved goal-scoring as they face FC Goa in a crucial ISL clash at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.
Archer Rishabh Yadav overcomes recent challenges, focusing on the Asian Games and the 2028 Olympics preparation.
Inter Milan's Serie A title hopes falter after a 1-1 draw with Atalanta, allowing AC Milan to close the gap.
Formula One cancels Bahrain and Saudi Arabian races due to the ongoing Iran-Israel war, prioritizing safety.
England clinches gold at Women’s Hockey World Cup Qualifiers, defeating India 2-0 amid missed opportunities for the host team.
Sreenidi Deccan secures a narrow 1-0 victory over Gokulam Kerala in the Indian Football League match.
Jacques Villeneuve asserts that top drivers will shine through F1's new rules, emphasizing adaptability and skill amid criticism.