India booked a place in the semi-finals of the ICC Under-19 World Cup with a commanding 58-run victory over Pakistan in a high-pressure Super Six encounter on Sunday, as a late batting surge and a dramatic collapse in the chase tilted the contest decisively in India’s favour.

Batting first after being put in, India recovered from early setbacks to post a competitive 252 in 49.5 overs. The innings revolved around a composed knock from Vedant Trivedi, whose 68 anchored India after the top order stumbled. Ayush Mhatre was dismissed for a duck, while two more quick wickets left India struggling before Trivedi and Vihaan Malhotra steadied the innings with a crucial 62-run partnership.

Malhotra’s 41 added momentum through the middle overs, while late contributions from the lower order ensured India crossed the 250 mark despite disciplined bowling spells from Pakistan’s seamers.

Pakistan began the chase with intent, reaching 151 for two and appearing firmly in control. Usman Khan led the charge with a fluent 66, combining timing with placement to neutralise India’s bowlers. However, the match turned sharply once India captain Ayush Mhatre struck in quick succession, triggering a collapse that saw Pakistan lose eight wickets for just 43 runs.

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Mhatre finished with figures of three for 21, leading a disciplined bowling effort supported by Khilan Patel and Vihaan Malhotra, who exploited mounting pressure and increasing required run rates. India’s fielding tightened in the final phase, cutting off singles and forcing risky strokes.

Reflecting on the defeat, Pakistan captain Farhan Yousaf said, “In start we bowled very well, we got three wickets early on. When one more fielder had to come in the circle, it was a tough one for the bowlers also.”

He added, “First plan was to win and qualify for the semis. But after losing some wickets, our plan totally changed. The wicket was tough.”

The win marked India’s sixth victory over Pakistan in Under-19 World Cup history and confirmed an unbeaten Super Six campaign. India will face Afghanistan in the semi-final in Harare, while a loss would have pushed them into a tougher clash against Australia.