India stormed into the final of the Under-19 Asia Cup after registering a convincing eight-wicket victory over Afghanistan in the semi-final, powered by an impressive 93-run innings from captain Lakshay Raichandani.
 

After restricting Afghanistan to 227 for eight, India's bowlers put their team in a strong position. The Indian batting line-up then completed the chase comfortably, reaching 230 for two in just 36.5 overs.
 

Raichandani led the run chase with a well-paced knock of 93 off 90 deliveries, which included 13 boundaries and one six. The right-handed batter displayed excellent control and composure, scoring at a strike rate of more than 100 without taking unnecessary risks.
 

He received strong support from Aryaveer Sehwag, who scored 51 runs. The pair added 117 runs for the opening wicket in 17 overs, giving India a solid foundation in the chase.
 

Raichandani continued to guide the innings after the opening partnership. He also shared an unbeaten 77-run stand for the second wicket with V K Vineet, who remained not out on 57. Their partnership ensured that India stayed comfortably ahead throughout the chase.
 

Raichandani brought up his half-century in just 39 balls. He reached 49 with an impressive pull shot off Mohammad Ali before taking a single off the next delivery to complete his fifty. He continued to find boundaries with well-timed pull shots and strokes along the ground.
 

Earlier, India's bowlers, led by fast bowler Ishan Sood, restricted Afghanistan to 227 for eight in their allotted overs, setting up a manageable target for the Indian batters.
 

In the other semi-final, Pakistan defeated Bangladesh by nine wickets to secure its place in the title clash. Pakistan had also beaten India during the group stage of the tournament.
 

India will now face Pakistan in the Under-19 Asia Cup final, scheduled to be played on Saturday in Al Amerat, Oman.