India's Under-19 cricket team, riding high on a monumental victory, is set to clash with Sri Lanka in the first semifinal of the ACC Men's U19 Asia Cup 2025 at the ICC Academy Ground in Dubai on Thursday, December 19. The high-stakes encounter comes on the back of a record-shattering performance by wicketkeeper-batter Abhigyan Kundu, who blasted an unbeaten 209 to demolish Malaysia in the group stage.
Kundu's Historic Knock Powers India to Semifinals
The path to the semifinal was carved out by an extraordinary batting display from Abhigyan Kundu. Walking in at number five after a brisk start, Kundu played an innings for the ages, scoring 209 not out from just 125 deliveries. His breathtaking knock, studded with 17 fours and 9 sixes, propelled India to a mammoth total of 408 for 7 against Malaysia in a Group A match at The Sevens Stadium in Dubai.
Kundu's double century is now among the highest individual scores in youth cricket. While it does not carry official Youth ODI status, it eclipses the previous Indian record of 177* held by Ambati Rayudu. The global benchmark at this level is held by South Africa's Jorich Van Schalkwyk, who made 215 earlier in 2025.
Partnerships and Bowling Seal Commanding Win
Kundu did not operate alone. He built the innings on a solid foundation laid by opener Vaibhav Suryavanshi, who raced to a 26-ball fifty. Kundu then forged a colossal 209-run partnership for the fourth wicket with Vedant Trivedi, who contributed a vital 90 runs. In the death overs, Kundu unleashed a brutal assault, plundering 81 runs off his final 33 balls.
Chasing a daunting 409, Malaysia's innings collapsed from the outset. Medium pacer Deepesh Devendran was the chief destroyer, ripping through the top order and finishing with a five-wicket haul. Malaysia were bundled out for a mere 93 runs, handing India a massive 315-run victory and a top spot in their group.
Semifinal Showdown and Tournament Context
With momentum firmly on their side, the Indian colts now face a familiar rival, Sri Lanka, for a place in the final. The second semifinal will feature Pakistan against Bangladesh later on Thursday. The title clash is scheduled for Sunday, December 22, at the same venue in Dubai.
All eyes will once again be on the young Indian batting stars. While Kundu will be brimming with confidence, the team will also rely on the explosive Vaibhav Suryavanshi to provide a flying start. The bowling unit, led by Devendran, will aim to continue its disciplined form against a competitive Sri Lankan batting lineup.
The stage is set for a thrilling contest as India U19 looks to take one step closer to lifting the ACC Men's U19 Asia Cup 2025 trophy.
