In the Under-19 Asia Cup final, Pakistan delivered a crushing 191-run defeat to India. However, that outcome can be seen as an exception. The current Under-19 World Cup presents a different picture with diverse conditions and form.
On Friday, England secured the third spot in the semi-finals of the Under-19 World Cup 2026 by defeating New Zealand by 65 runs. Afghanistan and Australia already clinched their positions in the final-four. Now, India and Pakistan are set for a head-to-head battle for the last semi-final slot. This encounter has essentially turned into a virtual quarter-final. The match between the two is scheduled for Sunday, February 1st.
India: A Strong Contender to Win the Under-19 World Cup
Currently leading their group with three consecutive victories, India stands as a formidable team. Meanwhile, Pakistan endured a loss to England. With Ayush Mhatre leading the charge, the Indian team has excelled in every aspect. On paper, facing Pakistan might not seem threatening for India, but the pressure of an India-Pakistan match ensures no result can be predetermined.
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Pakistan's greatest hope rests on Sameer Minhas, who boasts an impressive average of 94 runs. He was the batsman who dealt a significant blow to India with a century in the Under-19 Asia Cup final. He represents Pakistan's first line of attack. Beyond that, Pakistan's batting hasn't been particularly impactful, although their bowling has shown strength.
Ali Raza has taken 12 wickets in four matches, and playing against him won't be an easy task. Abdul Subhan has secured 10 wickets, while Momin Qamar has sent 8 batsmen back to the pavilion.
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However, Indian batting is equally competitive. Abhijnan Kundu is averaging 91 runs, while Vaibhav Suryavanshi's strike rate of 133 poses a threat to any bowling attack. Vihan Malhotra, after a remarkable century in the last match against New Zealand, will enter the field with great confidence.
Pakistan's Weak Batting, Reliance on Bowling
This match promises the excitement expected from a virtual quarter-final. But honestly, regardless of the result, Ayush Mhatre and his team remain strong candidates to proceed further.
India boasts a net run rate of +3.337, compared to Pakistan's 1.484. Therefore, for Pakistan to advance to the semi-finals, it would need to defeat India by more than 200 runs, which seems nearly impossible under current circumstances. If India wins, their spot in the semi-final is assured. Even a close defeat would still likely see India advance.
Even if Pakistan secures a victory, the social media buzz might not have a significant impact on the tournament. India is focused on capturing its sixth Under-19 World Cup title, a dream that seems within reach considering the current form.
