BULAWAYO, ZIMBABWE
India’s Under-19 cricket team delivered a composed and commanding performance against arch-rivals Pakistan to book their place in the semifinals of the ICC Under-19 World Cup, keeping their unbeaten run in the tournament firmly intact.
In a high-pressure Super Six encounter, India overcame Pakistan by 58 runs at Queens Sports Club, a result that not only secured India’s spot in the last four but also ended Pakistan’s hopes of progressing further in the competition. The match carried enormous significance, with both teams entering the contest aware that a semifinal place was on the line.
Batting first after being put in, India faced early resistance from Pakistan’s disciplined bowling attack. Despite losing wickets at regular intervals, the Indian side showed maturity beyond their years. The innings was anchored by a crucial half-century from Vedant Trivedi, who steadied the middle order and ensured India stayed on course. Late contributions from the lower order proved vital, helping India reach a competitive total of 252 runs before being bowled out in the final over.
Pakistan’s chase began with promise, as their openers looked positive and kept the required rate within reach. Usman Khan emerged as the standout performer for Pakistan with a fighting knock, while Hamza Zahoor offered brief support. However, the Indian bowlers maintained relentless pressure, refusing to allow partnerships to flourish. Regular breakthroughs in the middle overs shifted the momentum decisively in India’s favour.
Captain Ayush Mhatre led from the front with the ball, supported effectively by Khilan Patel, as Pakistan’s batting lineup gradually unraveled. Despite moments of resistance, Pakistan were eventually bowled out for 194, falling well short of the target and confirming their exit from the tournament.
The victory ensured India finished at the top of their Super Six group and set up a semifinal clash against Afghanistan, who have also impressed with consistent performances throughout the competition. For India, the win reinforced their reputation as one of the strongest teams in the tournament, showcasing a balanced combination of batting depth, disciplined bowling, and calm decision-making under pressure.
For Pakistan, the defeat was a bitter disappointment. Entering the match with slim hopes of qualification, they needed a special performance to stay alive in the tournament. While there were flashes of potential, crucial moments slipped away, particularly during the middle overs of the chase, where India tightened their grip on the game.
The India-Pakistan rivalry once again drew widespread attention, with fans across both nations closely following the contest. Though played at the junior level, the intensity, emotion, and competitive spirit mirrored that of senior international clashes, underlining the importance of the fixture in the cricketing landscape.
As the tournament moves into the knockout stage, India will look to carry this momentum forward, aware that the margin for error is now minimal. With confidence high and form on their side, the young Indian squad will aim to take another step toward lifting the Under-19 World Cup trophy, while Pakistan will return home reflecting on missed opportunities and lessons learned from a hard-fought campaign.
The semifinals promise high drama, but for now, India’s young stars can celebrate a significant victory that keeps their World Cup dream alive.
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