In the ICC Men's Under-19 World Cup 2026, the Indian team has stormed into the Super Six stage, triumphing in three consecutive matches. They claimed top position in Group-B by defeating New Zealand by seven wickets using the DLS method. Under the leadership of captain Ayush Mhatre, India dominated the group with resounding victories, accruing a total of six points to advance.
Topping Group-B secured India a spot in Super Six Group-2. Following the tournament's format, India will contest two matches in this stage. The first match in the Super Six will be a thrilling duel against host Zimbabwe on January 27 at Bulawayo's Queens Sports Club. The epic face-off between India and Pakistan is scheduled for February 1, also in Bulawayo, beginning at 1 PM Indian Standard Time.
Will India Avenge the Asia Cup Defeat?
It's noteworthy that in December's Under-19 Asia Cup final, Pakistan defeated India by 191 runs. Hence, this upcoming encounter is a golden opportunity for India to seek revenge. England, New Zealand, and Bangladesh were part of India's group, but clashes with them are not part of this round.
The Super Six stage comprises 12 teams, divided into two groups. Victories secured in the group stage carry forward if those teams also make it to the Super Six. Both India and England enter the Super Six with four points each, while Pakistan, Bangladesh, New Zealand, and Zimbabwe start with fewer points. Thus, each match becomes crucial in the race to the semi-finals.
India displayed brilliant form during the group stage, dismantling the United States (USA) at 107 all out and achieving the target well within 20 overs. Against Bangladesh, India successfully defended 238 runs for a commanding victory. They restrained New Zealand to 135 runs in a rain-affected match and achieved the target in just 13.3 overs.
Pakistan, however, did not have an ideal start. They lost to England by 36 runs in their opening match but bounced back by defeating Scotland and Zimbabwe. Pakistan, finishing second in Group-C, advanced to the Super Six. Their first Super Six game is set against New Zealand on January 27 in Harare.
When Will the Knockout Matches Be Played?
The India-Pakistan match on February 1 may directly influence the semi-final lineup, as only the top two teams from each Super Six group advance to the final four. The first semi-final is scheduled for February 3 in Bulawayo, with the second on February 4 in Harare. The championship match will take place on February 6 in Harare.
Furthermore, during the ICC Men's T20 World Cup in February, another India-Pakistan showdown is slated for February 15 at Colombo's R. Premadasa Stadium.
