India beat Afghanistan to reach Under-19 Asia Cup final

India defeated Afghanistan by eight wickets in the Under-19 Asia Cup semifinal, chasing a target of 228 to reach 230 for two and secure a place in the final against Pakistan.

Lakshya Raichandani scored 93 as India completed the chase in 36.5 overs at Al Amerat Cricket Ground. Aaryavir Sehwag made 51, and VK Vineeth remained unbeaten on 57. India had 79 balls remaining when the match ended.

Afghanistan, batting first after winning the toss, made 227 for eight in 50 overs. Noman Salarzai and Shah Faisal Rahimi each scored 51. Captain Sohail Khan added an unbeaten 36, while Ishan Sood took three wickets for India.

India’s opening partnership set up the chase. Raichandani and Sehwag added 117 runs before Sehwag was dismissed after reaching his half-century. Raichandani was out for 93, seven runs short of a century, with India close to the target. Vineeth finished the innings alongside Yashbardhan Singh Chauhan, who scored 16 not out.

The final against Pakistan is scheduled for Saturday, November 14, in Al Amerat. Pakistan advanced after beating Bangladesh by nine wickets in the other semifinal. The teams also met in the group stage, where Pakistan won by three wickets, according to...