U19 World Cup: Vaibhav steps up under pressure with 33-ball 68 in semi-final

IND-U19 vs AFG-U19: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi delivered a fearless counterattack under pressure, smashing 68 off just 33 balls to give India a flying start in their chase against Afghanistan in the Under-19 World Cup 2026 semi-final at the Harare Sports Club on Wednesday.

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

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

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

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

. . .Vaibhav Sooryavanshi goes full throttle in the SEMI-FINAL chase! #ICCMensU19WC | Semi-Final 2 | #INDvAFG LIVE NOW https://t.co/BH7PyKi0Hq pic.twitter.com/skcIOVMznz— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) February 4, 2026