Aaryavir Sehwag announced his arrival on the big stage with a magnificent 160-run knock against the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in India’s crucial Group A clash at the ACC Men’s U-19 Asia Cup 2026 on Tuesday.
The young opener, son of former India cricketer Virender Sehwag, struck 17 fours and seven sixes during his 168-ball innings at the Al Amerat Cricket Ground in Muscat. He brought up his maiden century for India U-19 in 131 deliveries, including 13 fours and two sixes. With this knock, Aaryavir also registered the highest individual score in the ongoing tournament, surpassing the previous best of 153.
After taking 14 deliveries to get off the mark, the right-handed batter gradually settled into his innings before shifting gears. India had lost captain Lakshay Raichandani early for 17, but Aaryavir held the innings together and ensured the team did not lose momentum.
He initially received support from VK Vineeth, who contributed 37 off 48 balls. Aaryavir continued to dominate the UAE bowling attack before his innings came to an end when he was caught by Uddish Suri off Naseem Khan.
Aaryavir Sehwag reveals his batting inspiration
While his father Virender Sehwag was known for his aggressive approach at the top of the order, Aaryavir has also drawn inspiration from another Indian batting great, Virat Kohli.
Speaking about his attacking approach in a video earlier in the tournament, the youngster said he wanted to combine the fearless style associated with his father with Kohli’s aggressive brand of cricket. “So, 100% I love taking that attack. I’m a huge Virat Kohli fan, and I would like to play my cricket in an aggressive manner. Not just the Sehwag way, but the Kohli way as well because I’m a huge fan. And yes, I would love to dominate every side that comes against us and try to do as much as I can for the country and win games for India,” he had said.
The 160-run innings was Aaryavir’s second fifty-plus score in the tournament. He had earlier scored 72 against Nepal in India’s opening match, which the team won by 10 wickets.
India U-19 keep semi-final hopes alive
Aaryavir’s big knock came at an important stage of India’s campaign after the team suffered a three-wicket defeat against arch-rivals Pakistan in their previous Group A encounter.
India entered the UAE fixture needing a strong performance to keep their semi-final hopes alive. Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh have already secured their places in the last four.
Earlier, UAE captain Ayaan Misbah won the toss and elected to bowl in the Group A contest. India will look to build on Aaryavir’s contribution and finish the match strongly as they aim to secure a place in the semi-finals.
