India vs Pakistan Clash to Decide Group 2 Leader in ICC U-19 World Cup 2026
The stage is set for a high-stakes encounter as India and Pakistan prepare to face off in the ICC Under-19 World Cup 2026 Super Six stage. This match, scheduled for Sunday at the Queen Sports Park in Bulawayo, will determine which team finishes at the top of Group 2.
Current Standings and Implications
As of now, both India and England are tied at the top of Group 2 with perfect records of three wins each. However, India holds a significant advantage in terms of Net Run Rate (NRR), which stands at an impressive 3.337 compared to England's 1.989. This means that a victory over Pakistan would allow India to surpass England and secure the coveted top spot in the group.
Pakistan, currently in third place with two wins and one loss, will be looking to upset their arch-rivals and improve their own position in the standings. The outcome of this match will not only affect the final Group 2 rankings but also set the stage for the semi-final fixtures.
Group 1 Semi-Finalists Confirmed
In Group 1, Australia and Afghanistan have already secured their places in the semi-finals. Australia leads the group with three consecutive victories, showcasing dominant performances throughout the tournament. Afghanistan follows closely behind, having demonstrated strong cricketing skills to earn their spot in the knockout stages.
The remaining teams in Group 1, including Sri Lanka, West Indies, South Africa, and Ireland, have been eliminated from semi-final contention, though they continue to compete for pride and final tournament positions.
Detailed Points Tables
Group 1 – Super Six Points Table
- Australia: Played 3, Won 3, Lost 0, Points 6, NRR 2.242
- Afghanistan: Played 3, Won 2, Lost 1, Points 4, NRR 1.020
- Sri Lanka: Played 3, Won 2, Lost 1, Points 4, NRR -0.180
- West Indies: Played 3, Won 2, Lost 1, Points 4, NRR -0.414
- South Africa: Played 3, Won 0, Lost 3, Points 0, NRR -1.116
- Ireland: Played 3, Won 0, Lost 3, Points 0, NRR -1.344
Group 2 – Super Six Points Table
- India: Played 3, Won 3, Lost 0, Points 6, NRR 3.337
- England: Played 3, Won 3, Lost 0, Points 6, NRR 1.989
- Pakistan: Played 3, Won 2, Lost 1, Points 4, NRR 1.484
- Bangladesh: Played 3, Won 0, Lost 2, Tied 1, Points 1, NRR -2.092
- New Zealand: Played 3, Won 0, Lost 2, Tied 1, Points 1, NRR -5.144
- Zimbabwe: Played 3, Won 0, Lost 3, Points 0, NRR -3.416
Upcoming Fixtures and Tournament Schedule
The India vs Pakistan match represents the final Super Six encounter in Group 2. Following this crucial clash, the tournament will move into the semi-final stage with the following schedule:
- 3 February 2026: Australia vs Group 2 Runner-up at Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo
- 4 February 2026: Afghanistan vs Group 2 Winner at Harare Sports Club, Harare
- 6 February 2026: Final at Harare Sports Club, Harare
This India-Pakistan encounter promises to be a thrilling contest that will not only decide the Group 2 standings but also set the tone for the remainder of the tournament. With both teams boasting talented young cricketers eager to make their mark on the international stage, fans can expect an exciting display of youth cricket at its finest.
