In a high-octane clash that lived up to the storied rivalry between the two nations, India’s Under-19 cricket team delivered a commanding performance to defeat Pakistan by 58 runs in the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup 2026 on February 1, advancing to the semi-finals with authority.
The match, played at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo, saw India bat first after winning the toss. The young Indian side posted a competitive total of 252 runs in their allotted 50 overs. Vedant Trivedi emerged as the star of the innings, scoring a gritty maiden fifty that anchored the batting lineup amidst challenging conditions. Contributions from the middle order, including quick cameos that pushed the score past 250, set a formidable target for Pakistan.
Pakistan’s chase began promisingly with an 88-run opening partnership, raising hopes of a competitive fightback. However, India’s bowlers struck back decisively. Henil Patel and Kanishk Chouhan led the charge, claiming crucial wickets that triggered a middle-order collapse. Pakistan was eventually bowled out for 194 in 47.2 overs, despite a resilient unbeaten 46 from Usman Khan, who fought valiantly but lacked support from the tail.
Kanishk Chouhan wins the @aramco POTM award for his all-round excellence in India’s last Super Six encounter 🙌 pic.twitter.com/JVOhoQB63X
— ICC (@ICC) February 1, 2026
This victory not only propels India into the semi-finals, where they are set to face Afghanistan, but also extends their impressive head-to-head record against Pakistan in U19 World Cups to 10-1 since 2012. The result highlights the depth of talent in Indian youth cricket and underscores the intense passion that Indo-Pak encounters evoke among fans worldwide.
As the tournament progresses, India’s semi-final berth keeps alive their quest for another U19 World Cup title, adding to their legacy in the competition.
