India U-19 Storm Into Asia Cup Final With Commanding Eight-Wicket Win Over Sri Lanka

India marched into the final of the Under-19 Asia Cup with a dominant eight‑wicket victory over Sri Lanka in a rain‑curtailed semifinal at the ICC Academy Ground, setting up a high‑voltage title clash against arch‑rivals Pakistan on Sunday.

Persistent rain earlier in the day reduced the knockout match to a 20‑overs‑per‑side contest, but the shortened format did little to disrupt India’s rhythm. The young side, unbeaten throughout the tournament, delivered another clinical performance with both ball and bat.

Sri Lanka, put in to bat, were restricted to 138 for 8 after India’s disciplined bowling attack kept a tight leash on scoring opportunities. The Indian bowlers, who have been consistently impressive throughout the competition, maintained pressure from the outset, forcing Sri Lanka into errors and preventing any substantial partnerships.

Chasing 139, India suffered early jitters when skipper Ayush Mhatre fell for 7 and star batter Vaibhav Suryavanshi departed for 9, leaving the team at 25 for 2. But the setback proved short‑lived.

Vice‑captain Vihaan Malhotra (61 not out) and Aaron George (58 not out) took charge, stitching together a match‑winning 114‑run unbeaten partnership that completely shut Sri Lanka out of the contest. Malhotra’s fluent stroke‑play combined with George’s composure ensured India crossed the finish line with two overs to spare.

The victory continues India’s flawless run in the tournament, following dominant group‑stage wins over the UAE, Pakistan, and Malaysia.

With Pakistan defeating Bangladesh in the other semifinal, the stage is now set for a blockbuster India–Pakistan final — a fixture that always carries immense anticipation at any level of the sport.

The final will be played on Sunday, December 21, at the same venue in Dubai.