IND U19 vs AFG U19 World Cup Semi-Final: Live Cricket Score Updates and Comprehensive Match Guide
The cricketing world turns its attention to Harare as India's Under-19 team prepares to face Afghanistan in a high-stakes semi-final clash at the ICC Under-19 World Cup 2026. This encounter promises to be a thrilling spectacle, with India aiming to continue their dominant run and Afghanistan looking to create an upset on the global stage.
Match Preview: India's Quest for a Record Sixth Title
India enters this semi-final as the overwhelming favorite, having displayed exceptional form throughout the tournament. The team remains unbeaten in their five matches, showcasing a balanced and confident approach that has overwhelmed opponents. Their most notable victory came against arch-rivals Pakistan in the Super Six stage, where they secured a convincing 58-run win.
With five championship titles already to their name (2000, 2008, 2012, 2018, 2022), India stands as the most successful team in Under-19 World Cup history. Only Australia, with four titles, comes close to matching this impressive record. The current squad appears determined to add a sixth trophy to this illustrious collection, and Wednesday's match represents a crucial step toward that historic achievement.
Afghanistan's Impressive Tournament Journey
Afghanistan has demonstrated remarkable resilience and skill to reach this semi-final stage. They have won four of their five matches, with their only loss coming against Sri Lanka by a narrow margin of four wickets. This performance highlights their growing prowess in youth cricket and their ability to compete with the best teams in the world.
While India holds the edge in terms of form and overall team composition, Afghanistan's unpredictable nature and fighting spirit make them dangerous opponents in this knockout encounter. The match promises to be a fascinating contest between India's established dominance and Afghanistan's emerging talent.
Essential Match Details: When and Where to Watch
Match Date and Venue: The India vs Afghanistan Under-19 World Cup 2026 semi-final will be played at the Harare Sports Club in Harare on Wednesday, February 4, 2026.
Match Start Time: The game is scheduled to begin at 01:00 PM Indian Standard Time (IST).
Toss Timing: The crucial toss will take place at 12:30 PM IST, thirty minutes before the match commencement.
Live Streaming and Telecast Information for Indian Viewers
Cricket enthusiasts in India can follow all the action through multiple platforms:
- Live Telecast: The match will be broadcast on the Star Sports Network across various channels.
- Live Streaming: Digital viewers can access the live stream through the JioHotstar app, ensuring comprehensive coverage on mobile devices and computers.
Squad Details for the Crucial Encounter
India Under-19 Squad: Ayush Mhatre (captain), R.S. Ambrish, Kanishk Chouhan, D. Deepesh, Mohamed Enaan, Aaron George, Abhigyan Kundu, Kishan Kumar Singh, Vihaan Malhotra, Udhav Mohan, Henil Patel, Khilan A. Patel, Harvansh Singh, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Vedant Trivedi.
Afghanistan Under-19 Squad: Osman Sadat, Khalid Ahmadzai, Faisal Shinozada, Uzairullah Niazai, Mahboob Khan (wicket-keeper/captain), Azizullah Miakhil, Abdul Aziz, Roohullah Arab, Nooristani Omarzai, Wahidullah Zadran, Aqil Khan, Nazifullah Amiri, Khatir Stanikzai, Salam Khan, Zaitullah Shaheen.
As the cricketing community eagerly awaits this semi-final showdown, all eyes will be on Harare to see if India can maintain their perfect record or if Afghanistan can script a memorable upset. The match represents not just a battle for a place in the final, but a showcase of the future stars of international cricket.
