India Defeats Pakistan to Secure U19 World Cup Semi-Final Spot

India triumphed over Pakistan, securing a place in the semi-finals of the ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup 2026 with a convincing 58-run victory, achieved on February 2 in Bulawayo. This win marks India’s unbeaten status in the tournament, finishing first in Group 2 after a stellar performance in the final Super Six match.

Batting first, India set a competitive target of 252 runs in 49.5 overs. Star batter Vaibhav Sooryavanshi provided a quick start, scoring 30 runs off 25 balls, which included five fours and a six. However, India faced a minor setback as they lost three wickets in quick succession. The team’s recovery was led by Vedant Trivedi, who scored a steady 68 runs, while contributions from Vihaan Malhotra (21 runs), Abhigyan Kundu, and RS Ambrish helped stabilize the innings.

In the final overs, a late flourish from Kanishk Chouhan (35 runs off 29 balls) and Khilan Patel (21 runs off 15 balls) added crucial runs, bringing the total to a formidable score. For Pakistan, Abdul Subhan emerged as the standout bowler, claiming three wickets for 33 runs.

On the bowling front, Chouhan also impressed by taking two wickets and conceding just 30 runs in his 10 overs, earning him the title of Player of the Match. Captain Ayush Mhatre played a pivotal role, securing three wickets for just 21 runs, while Patel contributed with impressive bowling figures of 3/35.

Pakistan, in their chase, struggled to build a solid partnership. Although Usman Khan anchored the innings with a commendable 66 runs, and there were notable contributions from Hamza Zahoor (42 runs) and captain Farhan Yousuf (38 runs), the Indian bowlers maintained tight control over the innings. The team bowled out Pakistan for 194 runs, ensuring India’s unbeaten run remains intact as they advance to the knockout stages.

Looking ahead, India will face Afghanistan in the semi-finals scheduled for Harare on February 4, while Australia and England prepare to clash in the other semi-final in Bulawayo on February 3.