Table of Contents

The stage is set for the mother of all battles in the ICC U-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup. When India and Pakistan meet on a cricket field, the world stops to watch, and this Sunday, the stakes couldn't be higher. With a place in the semi-finals on the line, the "Boys in Blue" and the "Boys in Green" are ready to write another chapter in their historic rivalry at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo.

Also Read: U19 World Cup: India take on Pakistan in must-watch Super Six encounter in Bulawayo

India has been a force of nature in this tournament. Under the leadership of Ayush Mhatre, they have steamrolled through their campaign, staying unbeaten with clinical wins over the USA, Bangladesh, and New Zealand. Most recently, they crushed hosts Zimbabwe by 204 runs. With a massive Net Run Rate (NRR) of +3.337, India is sitting comfortably, but they know better than to take their arch-rivals lightly.

Pakistan’s journey has been a bit more of a rollercoaster. They come into this game after a tough run but remain one of the most dangerous sides in the competition. While they’ve shown flashes of brilliance, they face a steep climb. To knock India out and sneak into the semi-finals, they don't just need a win; they need a miracle. Specifically, if they bat first, they’ll need to win by over 105 runs to leapfrog India on NRR.

The last time these two sides met, it was a heartbreak for India. In the U-19 Asia Cup final in Dubai just last December, Pakistan dominated India to win by a staggering 191 runs. Sameer Minhas was the star that day with a brilliant 172. India did beat them earlier in the group stages of that same tournament, but the final loss still stings. This World Cup clash is the perfect chance for India to settle the score.

Key Players to Watch - India

Ayush Mhatre (C): The captain has been leading from the front with his calm head and sharp tactics. His ability to anchor the innings will be vital in a high-pressure game.

Vihaan Malhotra: Fresh off a stunning unbeaten 109 against Zimbabwe, Malhotra is in the form of his life. If he gets going, Pakistan’s bowlers are in for a long day.

Vaibhav Suryavanshi: The young sensation has already made waves with his aggressive batting. He provides the spark at the top that can take the game away from the opposition in the first ten overs.

Henil Patel: With 10 wickets in four matches, Henil is India’s go-to man with the ball. His knack for picking up wickets in the power play will be crucial.

Key Players to Watch - Pakistan

Sameer Minhas: The hero of the Asia Cup final. India will be desperate to get him out early, as he has proven he can single-handedly dismantle their bowling attack.

Ali Raza: A fierce right-arm pacer who has been the backbone of Pakistan’s bowling. His battle against India’s top order will likely decide the direction of the match.

Usman Khan: With over 120 runs in the tournament so far, Usman is the glue in the middle order. Pakistan will need him to stay deep into the innings.

Expected Playing XI

India U-19: Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Ayush Mhatre (C), Abhigyan Kundu (WK), Vihaan Malhotra, Kiran Chormale, Musheer Khan, Priyanshu Moliya, Murugan Abhishek, Dhanush Gowda, Saumy Pandey, Henil Patel.

Pakistan U-19: Shahzaib Khan, Azan Awais, Sameer Minhas, Saad Baig (C & WK), Usman Khan, Ahmad Hassan, Tayyab Arif, Arafat Minhas, Ali Raza, Mohammad Zeeshan, Ubaid Shah.

Match Details: India vs Pakistan, Super Six

Date: Sunday, February 1, 2026

Time: 1:00 PM IST (9:30 AM Local Time)

Venue: Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe

Weather Forecast

Expect a bright, sunny day in Bulawayo with temperatures hitting 27°C. Conditions will be dry and pleasant, with only a 15% chance of rain, ensuring a full day of cricket.

Pitch Report

The Queens Sports Club deck offers early bounce and swing for pacers. While India recently posted a huge 350+ score here, batting is easiest once the new ball loses its shine.

India vs Pakistan Streaming Details

TV: Star Sports Network

Live Streaming: JioHotstar