India cruised into the Under-19 Asia Cup final with a commanding seven-wicket victory over Sri Lanka in Sharjah on Friday. The win was powered by Vaibhav Suryavanshi’s scintillating 36-ball 67, his second consecutive half-century, as India comfortably chased down a target of 174 with 170 balls to spare.
Suryavanshi, the 13-year-old sensation who recently became the youngest player ever bought at an IPL auction, smashed five sixes and six fours in his explosive innings. His knock, combined with Ayush Mhatre’s quick 34 off 28 balls, set the tone for the chase. The duo added 91 runs for the opening wicket, dismantling the Sri Lankan bowling attack in just eight overs. While Mhatre fell to Vihas Thewmika, Suryavanshi continued his assault, forming another valuable partnership with C Andre Siddharth (22). Captain Mohamed Amaan (25*) and KP Karthikeya (11*) sealed the victory with ease.
Earlier, Sri Lanka opted to bat but could only muster 173 in 46.2 overs. Lakvin Abeysinghe top-scored with a patient 69 off 110 balls, while Sharujan Shanmuganathan chipped in with 42 off 78. However, the innings lacked momentum as India’s bowlers dominated. Chetan Sharma was the pick of the bowlers with 3 for 34, while Kiran Chormale (2 for 32) and Ayush Mhatre (2 for 37) also shone.
India will face Bangladesh in the final at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Sunday. Bangladesh secured their spot earlier with a seven-wicket win over Pakistan, chasing 117 in just 22.1 overs. Both teams will now battle for the championship in what promises to be an exciting finale.
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