Bulawayo, February 1, 2026 – The arch-rivals Pakistan and India are set to face off in a high-voltage Super 6 match of the Under-19 Cricket World Cup 2026 on Sunday, with the clash scheduled to start at 12:30 PM Pakistan Standard Time (PST).
Every major cricket tournament has its headline act, and more often than not, it comes dressed in blue and green. India vs Pakistan is more than just a match – it is an event that stops time, gripping households across both sides of the border. With history, emotion, pride, and pressure all colliding, anticipation for this fixture is sky-high, and both teams are eager to write the next chapter in this storied rivalry.
One Semifinal Spot Left
The Super 6 phase has delivered drama, with Australia and Afghanistan from Group A, and England from Group B, already securing semifinal berths. That leaves just one ticket up for grabs, and the winner of this clash will claim it.
India Enter Unbeaten
India come into the match unbeaten, having defeated Bangladesh, New Zealand, and Zimbabwe. With six points and a net run rate of +3.337, the Men in Blue have shown dominance, highlighted by Vihaan Malhotra’s unbeaten 109 and Abhigyan Kundu’s 61-run innings against Zimbabwe. Their bowling has also been strong, with Henil Patel claiming 10 wickets and R.S. Ambrish supporting with a four-wicket haul.
Pakistan Carry Momentum
Pakistan have recorded wins over Zimbabwe and New Zealand, with pace spearhead Ali Raza taking 12 wickets so far. Batsman Sameer Minhas has been key, including his 172-run masterclass against India in the Under-19 Asia Cup final. Skipper Farhan Yousuf and Usman Khan will be vital if Pakistan hope to topple India this time.
A Rivalry Rewired
At the Under-19 level, India have dominated recent encounters, winning four of the last six clashes. Early years saw Pakistan edge ahead, but since 2012, India has consistently held the upper hand, including a 203-run win in 2018 and a 10-wicket triumph in 2020.
Stakes and Semifinal Implications
A win guarantees India the top spot in Group 2 and a semifinal against Afghanistan in Harare. Pakistan, however, must win convincingly to overcome a lower net run rate and face a rampaging Australian team in Bulawayo. With everything on the line, Sunday promises a thrilling showdown that fans won’t want to miss.
