India's Solid Innings
India, after being asked to bat first, was bowled out for 252 runs in 49.5 overs. The team experienced initial setbacks, losing key players early. Vaibhav
Suryavanshi, despite a promising start, was dismissed early. Aaron George and Ayush Mhatre also departed cheaply. However, Vedant Trivedi's composed 68-run knock provided stability, while contributions from RS Ambrish and Kanishk Chouhan helped India reach a competitive total. Pakistan's bowlers, led by Abdul Subhan with figures of 3/33, put up a strong fight, with Mohammad Sayyam also taking two wickets. Despite this, India managed to set a challenging target for Pakistan.
Pakistan's Chase Fails
Pakistan was set a target of 253 runs, with the requirement to chase it down within 33.3 overs to qualify for the semi-finals. However, Pakistan's batting performance lacked the necessary urgency, and they progressed at a slow pace. Captain Farhan Yousaf contributed 38 runs off 39 balls, but the required run rate of 7.5 runs per over proved too challenging. Despite a partnership between Hamza Zahoor and Usman Khan, Pakistan struggled to accelerate, eventually being bowled out for 194 in 46.2 overs. This lack of urgency led to their elimination from the tournament, as they failed to complete the chase even within the allotted 50 overs.
Key Performances and Turns
The Indian bowlers, led by Ayush Mhatre with figures of 3/21 and Khilan Patel with 3/35, played a crucial role in dismantling Pakistan's batting lineup. They took the final eight wickets for just 43 runs. In the initial overs, Henil Patel dismissed Sameer Minhas early. Hamza Zahoor and Usman Khan tried to stabilize the innings, building a second-wicket partnership. Despite their efforts, Pakistan's hopes were dashed by the Indian bowlers, who effectively sealed a memorable victory for India. The Indian team's bowling and fielding proved to be superior, ensuring their passage to the semi-finals.
India's Semi-Final Journey
With this comprehensive victory, India secured their place in the semi-finals of the Under-19 World Cup 2026. They finished at the top of Super Sixes Group 2 with eight points, alongside England. India is scheduled to face Afghanistan in the second semi-final on February 4 at the Harare Sports Club in Harare. The winners of the two semi-finals will then compete in the final, set for February 6 in Harare. Australia and England will compete in the first semi-final, adding to the excitement of the tournament.
