Ayush Mhatre and his boys in blue created history on Wednesday when they chased down a monumental target of 311 runs against Afghanistan Under‑19s to reach the final of the 2026 ICC Under-19 World Cup for the seventh time. The thrilling win at Harare Sports Club saw India complete one of the highest successful run chases in U-19 World Cup history, setting up a title clash against England Under-19s on February 6.
Coming into the game, there had been questions around Mhatre’s consistency with the bat, despite strong captaincy throughout the tournament. But in the biggest match of his young career, he delivered when it mattered most. Mhatre scored 62 off 59 balls with 5 fours and 4 sixes, anchoring the chase and providing India with calm leadership under pressure.
Ayush Mhatre U-19 World Cup stats
| Matches | NO | Runs | HS | Ave | SR | 100s | 50s | 0s | 4s | 6s |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 0 | 161 | 62 | 26.83 | 116.66 | 0 | 2 | 1 | 13 | 12 |
Ayush Mhatre stats in U19 World Cup have not been great as a batter. In six matches, Mhatre scored 161 runs at an average of 26.83 and a strike rate of 116.66, including two fifties. However, his runs came in pressure situations, highlighted by his match-defining knock in the semi-final that guided India into their seventh U19 World Cup final.
Mhatre led India’s historic chase
India’s pursuit began on a strong note, with Vaibhav Suryavanshi and Aaron George providing fireworks at the top. Suryavanshi set the tone with explosive power hitting, reaching a quick 68 off 33 balls before falling in the 10th over — and it was his brisk start that ensured India stayed in control early.
When Mhatre came to the crease at 90/1, India still had a mountain to climb. He and George added a crucial 114-run partnership, taking India to 204 by the 27th over before Mhatre departed trying to up the tempo. George continued his blazing form and went on to score a magnificent 115 off 104 balls, his maiden U-19 World Cup century, striking 15 fours and 2 sixes and anchoring the chase to perfection.
The target never looked out of reach once the partnership gained momentum, and India sealed the chase in just 41.1 overs, finishing at 311/3 — a performance that will be talked about for years in youth cricket circles.
Afghanistan’s Battling Innings Sets the Stage
The historic chase only became possible because of the strong foundation set by Afghanistan. Electing to bat first, Afghanistan posted a formidable 310/4, powered by big hundreds from Faisal Shinozada (110) and Uzairullah Niazi (101) — a rare twin century effort for the visitors. Their partnership laid the platform for Afghanistan’s intimidating total, which tested India’s bowling attack throughout.
Despite the massive score, India’s young batting unit showed patience, calculated aggression, and depth in their lineup. With this victory, the Indian U-19 team now marches into the final once again, continuing its rich tradition at the Under-19 World Cup stage while honouring the team’s consistent blend of talent and temperament.
