Dhaka, Dec 20 (V7N) — The stage is set for another thrilling encounter between cricketing rivals India and Pakistan as both teams have secured their spots in the Under-19 Asia Cup final. The highly anticipated match will take place on December 21 at the ICC Academy ground, promising intense competition and high drama.

The excitement of the Asia Cup is unmatched, and when India and Pakistan face off, the intensity reaches a whole new level. Earlier this year, the senior teams clashed in the Asia Cup, and now the rivalry continues in the youth tournament.

In Friday’s semifinals, both matches were affected by rain, requiring adjustments in overs. In the first semifinal, India defeated Sri Lanka by eight wickets in a 20-over match. Sri Lanka, batting first, managed 138 runs for 8 wickets. Despite early losses of both openers, a steady partnership between Aaron George (58*) and Vihaan Malhotra (61) guided India to a comfortable victory without further trouble.

The second semifinal saw Pakistan overcome Bangladesh in a 27-over match. Bangladesh, led by Azizul Hakim Tamim, struggled with the bat and were all out for 121 runs, with Samiun Bashir Ratul top-scoring at 33. In response, opener Samir Minhas anchored Pakistan’s chase with 69 runs, securing an eight-wicket victory and a place in the final.

During the group stage, India had already faced Pakistan, defeating them by a commanding 90-run margin, signaling the strength and form of the Indian side. The upcoming final promises to be a repeat of that intense battle, but with higher stakes and added pressure.

Cricket enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting December 21, when the young stars of India and Pakistan will compete for the Under-19 Asia Cup title, crowning Asia’s new champions in one of youth cricket’s fiercest rivalries.

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