In what was an audacious run-chase in the history of the ICC Under-19 World Cup, India chased a target of 311; a mountain never before climbed in this tournament, with India making the task look like a leisurely stroll, reaching the tape with 53 balls to spare.
Despite Afghanistan posting a daunting 310/4, the Indian openers ensured the required run rate was never a concern.
Vaibhav Suryavanshi, the youngest star of the tournament, went after the Afghan bowlers," smashing four sixes and reaching his fifty in just 24 deliveries.
India raced to 90/0 in under 10 overs, effectively killing the contest before the Powerplay ended. Even though Suryavanshi fell to a top-edged pull, the momentum was irreversible.
While Suryavanshi was the "butcher," Aaron George was the "surgeon." The right-hander from Hyderabad played an innings of impeccable precision and aesthetic grace.
George’s 115 featured effortless cover drives and a text book six over long-on. He reached his century in 95 balls.
Captain Ayush Mhatre (62 off 59), who had struggled for rhythm throughout the tournament, found his form when it mattered most. His first two scoring shots were maximums, helping India pass the 200-mark in just the 25th over.
It was a heart-breaking result for Afghanistan, who played a near-perfect first half. For only the second time in U19 World Cup history, two batters scored centuries in the same knockout innings.
Faisal Shinozada: Following his 163 against Ireland, Faisal hit 110 with his trademark "Siuuu" celebration.
Uzairullah Niazai: Played the perfect foil and then exploded at the death to finish 101 off 86 balls*.
Despite a competitive total, the Afghan fielding faltered, dropping both Suryavanshi (on 22) and George (on 20) early in their innings; which later, proved fatal.
