India on Sunday set Pakistan a challenging target of 253 runs in a crucial Super Six match of the ICC U-19 Cricket World Cup, with a place in the semi-finals at stake.
Pakistan must chase the target within 33.3 overs to keep their semi-final hopes alive. A successful chase would see Pakistan level on six points with India, with qualification then to be decided on net run rate.
Pakistan’s bowlers put in a disciplined performance after captain Farhan Yousuf won the toss and elected to field first.
Abdul Subhan led the bowling attack with three wickets, while Muhammad Sayam claimed two. Ali Hassan Baloch, Ahmed Hussain, Momin Qamar, and Ali Raza chipped in with one wicket each.
Australia, England, and Afghanistan have already secured their places in the semi-finals. The outcome of this match will determine the final semi-finalist, making it one of the most important fixtures of the tournament.
For India, Aaron George and Abhinav Suryavanshi opened the innings, and both batsmen provided the team with a 47-run start. Suryavanshi and captain Mahatre were dismissed by Siam in the same over, while India’s third loss also came at 47 runs in the form of Aaron, who was clean bowled by Subhan.
India’s fourth player Vihan Malhotra, was caught by Ahmed Hussain’s hand for 41 runs. Pakistan will have to defeat India by a large margin to reach the semi-finals of the U-19 World Cup. It should be noted that the teams of Australia, England and Afghanistan have already qualified for the semi-finals.
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