Crucial Super Six Clash in Bulawayo
In a pivotal ICC Under-19 World Cup 2026 Super Six match in Bulawayo, India posted a competitive total of 252 runs against Pakistan, setting a target of 253 for the arch-rivals. This match has turned into a high-stakes encounter as both teams vie for the final semifinal spot in the tournament.
Australia, Afghanistan, and England have already secured their semifinal berths. Now all eyes are on this India vs Pakistan game, with both teams understanding exactly what they need to do to move into the top four.
India’s Batting Effort
India’s innings saw early fireworks from Vaibhav Suryavanshi, who scored a quick 30, giving the team an encouraging start. However, early wickets put pressure on the middle order.
Vedant Trivedi played a vital innings, top-scoring with a gritty 68 runs, steadying India’s innings after early setbacks. Alongside him, Kanishk Chouhan (35) and Khilan Patel (21) provided explosive hitting towards the end, helping India finish with a total of 252 in 49.5 overs.
Net Run Rate and Group Standings
In Group 2 of the Super Six stage, India currently sits second with 6 points and a Net Run Rate (NRR) of +3.337. Pakistan, with 4 points and an NRR of +1.484, must chase the target aggressively to keep their semifinal hopes alive.
Exact Qualification Scenarios
The semifinal qualification equation is straightforward but dramatic:
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India Win: If India defeats Pakistan, they qualify for the semifinals as Group 2 leaders and will face Afghanistan in the knockout stage.
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India Lose Narrowly: Even if India loses but Pakistan takes more than 33.3 overs to chase the target, India still qualifies due to their superior NRR.
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India Knocked Out: India will be eliminated only if Pakistan chases down 253 in 33.3 overs or fewer, overtaking India on NRR and securing the semifinal berth.
This do-or-die battle has captured the attention of cricket fans worldwide, as the outcome will shape the final semifinal lineup.
