It is unusual for an ICC tournament to unfold without India and Pakistan being drawn against each other. At the junior level, that pattern has shifted in recent editions, but separation has only delayed the inevitable. Unscheduled yet unavoidable, destiny has reunited the two Asian heavyweights to reignite a rivalry shaped by decades. With more than half the tournament complete, the marquee clash finally takes centre stage at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo.
A great deal rests on the young shoulders of the 22 teenagers who will take the field for what is invariably a high-octane clash. History, and the current tensions between the two countries, adds further weight to this contest. In all likelihood, it will be an emotionally charged encounter, much like the U-19 Asia Cup final where the two teams last crossed swords and Pakistan thumped India to lift the title. Then, the stakes were high, and India crumbled under scoreboard pressure, with several heated exchanges involving captain Ayush Mhatre and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi.
Now, once again, the stakes are high. A semi-final spot is up for grabs, and both teams remain in contention. For India, the scenario is relatively straightforward. A win would take them through to the next stage. Even in defeat, the five-time champions will need to ensure that their net run rate does not take a significant hit.
If India bowl first, they must ensure they do not lose by more than 85 runs. While defending, they will need to prevent their arch-rivals from chasing down the target within 31.5 overs. Comparatively, India are under less pressure, although the loss in Dubai will still linger in the minds of several players. Words of wisdom from the great Sachin Tendulkar were shared with the team ahead of the final Super Six clash, and VVS Laxman has joined the squad to further bolster preparations.
The Boys in Blue have been preparing tirelessly behind the scenes in the build-up to the match. One advantage they hold is familiarity with the conditions, having played all their matches in Bulawayo so far. That familiarity should aid Mhatre and his team. Bowlers have dominated the tournament to date, but the pitch for the India–Pakistan clash is expected to be more batting-friendly.
Although the 300-run mark has been breached only once in Bulawayo, it was India who managed the feat. The pacers have enjoyed the pace and bounce on offer, while the spinners have also played a major role, claiming 39 wickets at the venue so far — the most among the five World Cup venues.
On the other side, calculators are out in the Pakistan camp. To qualify for the semi-finals, the Boys in Green will need not just a win, but a sizeable one to overhaul India’s net run rate.
On paper, India appear the stronger outfit, boasting more in-form players than Pakistan. However, history has shown that big matches are often decided by the team that handles pressure better. That remains unchanged. Whichever side manages its nerves more effectively is likely to emerge on top.
Also, expect the no-handshake policy to continue from the Indian side.
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