ICC U-19 World Cup: India set 253-target for Pakistan

Bulawayo: India posted a competitive total of 252 runs in 49.5 overs against arch-rivals Pakistan in their Under-19 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup Super Six match, setting a target of 253 for the Green Shirts.

Pakistan captain Farhan Yousuf won the toss and elected to field.

India made a steady start through openers Arun George and Abhinav Suryavanshi, who added 47 runs for the first wicket.

Pakistan fought back strongly as Siam removed both Suryavanshi and India captain Mahatre in the same over, shifting momentum.

Soon after, Abdul Subhan bowled George to reduce India to 47 for three. The fourth wicket fell when Vihan Malhotra, who scored 41, was caught off Ahmed Hussain’s bowling.

India entered the match with six points and require a win to confirm a place in the semi-finals. Pakistan, on four points, face a tougher qualification scenario, with their net run rate of 1.484 significantly lower than India’s 3.337, meaning a sizeable victory margin is needed to progress.