The stage is set for a thrilling encounter as India's Under-19 cricket team faces Afghanistan in the second semi-final of the ICC Under-19 World Cup 2026. With a spot in the final at stake, both teams are prepared to give their all in this high-stakes match at Harare Sports Club.
Match Overview and Historical Context
India enters this semi-final clash as the overwhelming favorite, having maintained an unbeaten streak throughout the tournament. The team has demonstrated exceptional form, securing comfortable victories in all five of their matches. Their most notable win came against arch-rivals Pakistan in the Super Six stage, where they triumphed by a convincing 58-run margin.
India's historical dominance in the Under-19 World Cup is unparalleled. The team has lifted the trophy five times previously – in 2000, 2008, 2012, 2018, and 2022 – making them the most successful side in the competition's history. Australia follows closely with four titles. A victory in this semi-final would bring India one step closer to achieving a record-extending sixth championship.
Afghanistan's Impressive Campaign
Afghanistan has also delivered strong performances in the tournament, winning four of their five matches. Their only defeat came against Sri Lanka by a narrow margin of four wickets. Despite their impressive run, Afghanistan faces a formidable challenge against India's well-balanced squad.
Based on current form and overall team composition, India appears to hold a distinct advantage heading into this knockout clash. However, cricket has often witnessed unexpected turns, and Afghanistan will be determined to create an upset.
Key Players to Watch
India's Standout Performers
Abhigyan Kundu, the wicketkeeper-batter, has emerged as India's batting star, accumulating 199 runs in five matches with two half-centuries. Vaibhav Suryavanshi, the explosive opener, has contributed 196 runs from five games, including two fifties. The team management hopes he can convert these promising starts into a century.
All-rounder Vihaan Malhotra has been instrumental with both bat and ball, scoring 172 runs highlighted by an unbeaten 109 against Zimbabwe in the group stage, while also taking five wickets. Captain Ayush Mhatre has led effectively with his off-spin, claiming six wickets, though he seeks to improve his batting returns after managing 99 runs so far.
India's bowling attack is spearheaded by right-arm pacers Henil Patel and RS Ambrish, who have taken 11 wickets each. They receive solid support from left-arm spinner Khilan Patel, who has picked up eight wickets in five matches.
Afghanistan's Squad
Afghanistan will rely on captain Mahboob Khan and key players like Azizullah Miakhil, Faisal Shinozada, and Khalid Ahmadzai to challenge India's dominance. Their balanced squad includes promising talents who have shown resilience throughout the tournament.
Match Details and Streaming Information
When: Wednesday, February 4, 2026
Where: Harare Sports Club, Harare
Match Start Time: 1:00 PM IST
Toss Time: 12:30 PM IST
How to Watch
The India vs Afghanistan semi-final will be broadcast live on the Star Sports Network channels in India. For live streaming, viewers can access the match through the Jio Hotstar app and website.
Probable Playing XIs
India
- Vaibhav Suryavanshi
- Aaron George
- Ayush Mhatre (Captain)
- Vihaan Malhotra
- Abhigyan Kundu
- Vedant Trivedi
- Kanishk Chouhan
- RS Ambrish
- Khilan Patel
- Henil Patel
- Deepesh Devendran
Afghanistan
- Faisal Shinozada
- Khalid Ahmadzai
- Osman Sadat
- Uzairullah Niazai
- Mahboob Khan (Captain)
- Azizullah Miakhil
- Nooristani Omarzai
- Abdul Aziz
- Roohullah Arab
- Wahidullah Zadran
- Aqil Khan
Full Squads
India U-19 Squad
Aaron George, Abhigyan Kundu, Harvansh Pangalia, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Vedant Trivedi, Ayush Mhatre (Captain), Vihaan Malhotra, RS Ambrish, Kanishk Chouhan, Khilan Patel, Deepesh Devendran, Henil Patel, Mohamed Enaan, Udhav Mohan, Kishan Singh.
Afghanistan U-19 Squad
Mahboob Khan (Captain), Azizullah Miakhil, Faisal Shinozada, Khalid Ahmadzai, Osman Sadat, Uzairullah Niazai, Abdul Aziz, Aqil Khan, Khatir Stanikzai, Nazifullah Amiri, Nooristani Omarzai, Roohullah Arab, Salam Khan, Wahidullah Zadran, Zaitullah Shaheen.
As the cricketing world turns its attention to Harare, this semi-final promises to be a captivating contest between India's established dominance and Afghanistan's determined challenge. With both teams showcasing exceptional talent and competitive spirit, fans can expect an exciting match filled with intense moments and skillful performances.
