India secures dominant victory in Bulawayo to eliminate arch-rivals Pakistan.
Bulawayo witnessed a masterclass in tactical cricket as the India Under-19 team dismantled Pakistan by 58 runs. This victory not only sends India into the semi-finals as group leaders but also effectively ends Pakistan's journey in the tournament. While Pakistan showed early flashes of brilliance, India’s superior depth and composure on a tricky pitch proved to be the ultimate difference.
Winning the toss, Pakistan opted to bowl first, a decision that initially seemed wise. India found themselves in a spot of bother at 47 for 3. However, Vedant Trivedi played a savior’s role, anchoring the innings with a gritty 68. The lower order provided the late fireworks India desperately needed. Contributions from Kanishk Chouhan and Khilan Patel pushed the total to a competitive 252. Pakistan’s slow over-rate also cost them dearly, allowing India to plunder 39 runs in the final four overs against a restricted field.
Pakistan faced a mountainous task: they needed to chase 253 in just 33.3 overs to leapfrog India on net run rate. Instead of attacking, their batters struggled to find rhythm on a surface that offered variable bounce and sharp turn. Although Usman Khan kept their hopes alive with a steady 66, the middle order collapsed under the pressure of India’s disciplined spin attack.
Captain Ayush Mhatre led from the front with the ball, picking up three crucial wickets. The Pakistani lineup, dominated by left-handers, fell into a trap set by India's part-time spinners. From a comfortable 151 for 3, Pakistan suffered a spectacular collapse, losing their final seven wickets for just 43 runs.
By finishing at the top of the table, India has avoided a repeat clash on the weary Bulawayo pitch. They will now travel to Harare to face Afghanistan in the semi-finals. This performance reinforces India’s status as favorites, showcasing a team that knows how to win even when they aren't dominating from the first ball.
Image Source: ICC
