India knock out Pakistan to enter ICC U19 World Cup 2026 semi-finals; set to face Afghanistan

The Super Six round of the ICC Under 19 World Cup 2026 has come to an end with India beating Pakistan by 58 runs. With this victory, the Boys in Blue have knocked out Pakistan from the tournament, securing a place in the semi-finals. The journey hasn't been easy for India, but the contributions from all the players has helped them remain unbeaten in the tournament.

Four teams, India, England, Australia, and Afghanistan have secured a berth in the semi-finals. India have shown their dominance in the ICC events once again with their performance. Ayush Mhatre-led team started the tournament with a victory against the USA and then went on to win every single game. They'll next target will be Afghanistan as both teams will clash on February 4 in Harare. 

The first semi-final will start on February 3 between England and Australia. The winner of the match will proceed to the finals. All four teams have been in their best form and have entertained the crowd as well. The World Cup final will be played on Fabruary 6. 

Ayush Mhatre's bowling, Vedant Trivedi's knock helped India clinch victory

The toss in the final encounter of the Super Six round between India and Pakistan was most important since the wickets weren't perfect. Pakistan skipper Farhan Yousaf won the toss and invited India to bat first. As expected, India lost early wickets and looked under pressure until Vedant Trivedi came in to rescue the team. His 68 off 98 balls stabilized India. He received some support from Vihaan Malhotra, who was dismissed on 21 runs. 

After their wickets, Kanishk Chouhan and Khilan Patel stayed and took the total to a respectable one. While 252 might look like a low total, it is usually enough since the opponents would be in pressure when the second innings started. But Pakistan started the game with a lot of confidence. They didn't lose much wickets but had to chase the target within 33.5 overs. 

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It certainly looked like they weren't playing to qualify but rather to beat India in the match. When they were knocked out, Usman Khan was the only set batter at the crease. He was batting at 66 off 92 balls. However, skipper Ayush Mhatre dismissed him in the 35th over and Pakistan's wickets kept falling after that. 

Mhatre and Khilan Patel claimed three wickets each while the Player of the Match award went to Kanishk Chouhan for his all-round performance. He slammed 35 runs and claimed one wicket in the match. India have now qualified for the semi-finals and will clash against Afghanistan. 

Where to watch IND vs AFG U19 World Cup 2026 match?

Cricket fans in India can watch the IND vs AFG U19 match on February 4 online on JioHotstar, via OTTplay Premium.

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