The stage is set for a high-stakes showdown at Harare Sports Club India U19Compete with the tournament’s “giant-killers” Afghanistan U19in the second semi-final of ICC U19 World Cup 2026.
India recently entered the semi-finals with a perfect record, demolishing arch-rivals Pakistan Topping their Super Six group by 58 runs. led by Ayush Mhatre“Boys in Blue” showed immense depth; When the top order faltered against Pakistan Vedant Trivedi (68) And Kanishk Chauhan (35) Steps taken to ensure a competitive total. His bowling was led Henil Patel (11 wickets) and Mhatre’s spin pair Khilan PatelHas been clinical in defending the total.
Afghanistan, captaincy of -Mehboob KhanHas been the surprise package of the tournament. Their route to the semi-finals included a huge 191-run win irelandPowered by a magnificent 163 Faisal Shinozada. While traditionally known for spin, their pace attack is led by Nuristani Omarzai (12 wickets) -Has been his primary weapon in Zimbabwean conditions.
Harare weather forecast
Match day in Harare is expected to be generally warm and comfortable, but weather interruptions cannot be ruled out. While the first part of the day should be relatively stable, conditions may become tricky as clouds form and light rain approaches by the afternoon.
Temperature (High: 26°C / Low: 15°C): Daytime temperatures around 26°C should be ideal for cricket, neither too hot nor too sweltering for the players. However, a drop to around 15°C later in the day can bring a slight chill, especially if it rains or is windy, which can aid seam movement under the lights.
Humidity (about 70%, increasing in the evening): Moderate to high humidity may make conditions a bit difficult for fast bowlers during long periods. As humidity increases in the evening, the ball may grip and swing a little more, potentially helping bowlers – especially if there is moisture in the air after rain.
Cloud cover (about 60%, mostly cloudy in the afternoon): Cloud cover during the afternoon may reduce visibility slightly and help fast bowlers extract movement from the pitch. Overcast conditions also increase the chances of rain delays and may affect the captain’s decisions at the time of the toss.
Precipitation (55% chance, ~2.1 mm): There is a possibility of scattered rain or light thundershowers, especially during the afternoon and evening. Short interruptions are possible, and if rain intervenes, the match could be affected by the DLS count, making adaptability crucial for both teams.
harare pitch report
The Harare Sports Club pitch for this semi-final is expected to be a balanced, sporting track that offers something for everyone. Historically, the surface provides a “batting-friendly” environment after the players settle in, with the average first innings total being around 240. However, current tournament data suggests a distinct advantage early on for fast bowlers; In recent matches at this venue, using the extra bounce and morning zip, fast bowlers have taken almost 70% of the wickets. As the match progresses and sunlight hits the surface, it begins to dry out and become slower, giving spinners significant purchase in the middle and death overs. Given the dry nature of the square and the pressure of a knockout game, chasing a score of over 260 could prove extremely difficult.
dew factor
In Harare, dew usually becomes a significant factor during the second innings of day-night matches as the temperature drops rapidly after sunset (around 6:34 pm). However, since it is a one-day match (start at 1:00 PM IST), the dew advantage for the team bowling second will be minimal or negligible.
toss prediction
Bowl first. Given the 55% chance of rain and possible cloudy conditions, the captain would probably prefer to chase the target. Overcast skies will help the fast bowlers in the first hour and DLS considerations usually favor the team batting second in rain-interrupted games.
Batting or bowling heaven?: Harare Sports Club currently offers a balanced surface. Fast bowlers like Nuristani and Heinil will get movement and bounce with the new ball. The pitch starts to dry out and slow down, giving the spinners significant turn. The competitive total here is around 240-260. If the batsmen can withstand the initial burst, the flat nature of the track allows for big scores, as seen in Shinozada’s recent century.
Limit Dimension: Harare Sports Club is known for its relatively square boundaries but long straight hits.
- square borders: ~65-68 meters.
- Direct Limits: ~72-75 meters.
- Outfield: Very fast, advantageously timed ground shots.
