In the rain-affected semi-final of the Under-19 Asia Cup on December 19, 2025, held at the ICC Academy Ground in Dubai, the India Under-19 cricket team achieved a decisive eight-wicket victory over Sri Lanka, advancing to face Pakistan in the final.
The match format was altered from the traditional 50 overs to 20 overs per side due to weather conditions. India chose to bowl first after winning the toss and effectively restricted Sri Lanka to 138 runs for eight wickets in their full allocation. Sri Lanka’s top order struggled significantly, collapsing to 28 for three in the opening six overs. Captain Vimath Dinsara scored 32, and Chamika Heenatigala added 42, but their 45-run partnership could not save the innings from further trouble. Late contributions from Sethmika Seneviratne (30 off 22 balls) provided some resistance. For India, Kanishk Chouhan and Henil Patel were the key bowlers, each taking two wickets.
Chasing a revised target of 139 runs, India encountered early difficulties with the loss of openers Ayush Mhatre and Vaibhav Suryavanshi. However, Vihaan Malhotra and Aaron George formed a crucial unbroken partnership of 114 runs for the third wicket, with Malhotra scoring 61 not out and George contributing 58. India comfortably reached their target with 11 balls remaining.
This victory sets up a highly anticipated final clash against Pakistan, scheduled for December 21, 2025. Both teams have shown remarkable form throughout the tournament, making the final a promising encounter. India’s performance in this semi-final highlights their growing strength and determination, positioning them as major contenders for the Asia Cup title.
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