IND U19 vs AFG U19 World Cup Semifinal: Complete Guide to Live Streaming and Match Details
The stage is set for a thrilling encounter as the India U19 cricket team prepares to take on Afghanistan U19 in the second semifinal of the ICC U19 World Cup 2026. This high-stakes match will be played at the Harare Sports Club in Zimbabwe, with both teams vying for a coveted spot in the tournament final.
India's Dominant Run and Afghanistan's Impressive Journey
India U19, the five-time champions, enter this semifinal clash as one of the unbeaten teams in the competition. Their confidence is sky-high following a crucial Super 6 stage victory over arch-rivals Pakistan, where Vedant Trivedi played a match-winning innings. The Boys in Blue have displayed remarkable consistency throughout the tournament, maintaining an unblemished record.
However, captain Ayush Mhatre's form has emerged as a significant concern for the Indian camp. With just one half-century to his name so far, the Chennai Super Kings star needs to elevate his performance at this critical juncture. The entire team will be looking to continue their momentum and secure an unbeaten entry into the final.
On the opposing side, Afghanistan U19 has made their third semifinal appearance in U19 World Cup history, having previously reached this stage in 2018 and 2022. Led by the impressive Mahboob Khan, the Afghan team has showcased exceptional skills throughout the tournament.
Their journey to the semifinals has been marked by notable victories:
- An opening win against South Africa
- Convincing triumphs over West Indies and Tanzania in the group stage
- A Super 6 stage victory against Ireland that secured their semifinal berth
Despite a loss to Sri Lanka in the Super 6 stage, Afghanistan has demonstrated resilience and determination to reach the tournament's penultimate stage.
India vs Afghanistan Head-to-Head Record and Historical Context
In youth ODIs, India enjoys a commanding head-to-head record against Afghanistan, standing at an impressive 10-2. The only previous encounter between these teams in an ICC U19 World Cup occurred back in 2010, when India secured an eight-wicket victory.
Interestingly, Saurabh Netravalkar was part of the Indian playing XI during that 2010 match. Netravalkar now represents the United States national team, which is currently in India participating in the senior T20 World Cup, adding an intriguing historical connection to this upcoming semifinal clash.
Match Details and Viewing Information
Date: February 4, 2026
Time: 1:00 PM IST
Venue: Harare Sports Club, Harare, Zimbabwe
Where to Watch IND U19 vs AFG U19 Live
Television Broadcast: Star Sports serves as the official broadcaster of the ICC U19 World Cup 2026 in India. The India U19 vs Afghanistan U19 semifinal will be televised live on Star Sports channels starting at 1:00 PM IST.
Live Streaming: For digital viewers, live streaming of the match will be available on the JioStar app and website, providing comprehensive coverage of this crucial encounter.
Probable Playing XIs
India U19 Probable XI:
- Vaibhav Suryavanshi
- Aaron George
- Ayush Mhatre (Captain)
- Vihaan Malhotra
- Abhigyan Kundu
- Vedant Trivedi
- Kanishk Chouhan
- RS Ambrish
- Khilan Patel
- Henil Patel
- Deepesh Devendran
Afghanistan U19 Probable XI:
- Faisal Shinozada
- Khalid Ahmadzai
- Osman Sadat
- Uzairullah Niazai
- Mahboob Khan (Captain)
- Azizullah Miakhil
- Nooristani Omarzai
- Abdul Aziz
- Roohullah Arab
- Wahidullah Zadran
- Aqil Khan
This semifinal promises to be a captivating contest between India's tournament dominance and Afghanistan's rising cricketing prowess. With a final berth at stake, both teams will leave no stone unturned in their quest for victory.
