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A clinical India Under-19 side stormed closer to the semi-finals of the ICC Under-19 World Cup 2026 with a massive 204-run victory over hosts Zimbabwe. In a match that highlighted the gulf in class between the two sides, India excelled in every department posting a mammoth 352/7 before bundling out the opposition for just 148.
Indian players celebrate a wicket during the Group B clash in Harare. (Photo: ICC/Getty)While Vihaan Malhotra stole the show with a masterclass century, the bowlers hunted in packs to ensure Zimbabwe never had a sniff of the target. The win boosts India’s Net Run Rate (NRR) to a healthy +2.45, making them the team to beat in Group B.
Match Summary
First Innings: The Foundation & The Explosion
On a pitch that initially offered some movement to the seamers, India’s start was cautious. The openers respected the conditions, navigating the first powerplay with minimal risk. However, once the ball stopped swinging, the Indian batters shifted gears.
The middle overs belonged entirely to Vihaan Malhotra. Walking in at 85/2, Malhotra displayed maturity beyond his years. He didn't just hit boundaries; he manipulated the field, running hard singles and converting ones into twos.
The Chase: Pace Battery Dismantles Hosts
Chasing 353 was always going to be a monumental task for Zimbabwe, but India’s new-ball bowlers made it impossible. Left-arm seamer Rohan Sharma was the architect of the early collapse. Swinging the ball both ways, he removed Zimbabwe’s top three batters within the first 8 overs.
- Powerplay Domination: Zimbabwe were reduced to 45/3 after 10 overs.
- Spin Web: Once the pace attack rested, leg-spinner Kartik Verma (2/19) choked the middle order, forcing batters to play rash shots.
- Fielding Standard: India’s fielding was electric, with two run-outs highlighting the pressure exerted on the hosts.
Zimbabwe eventually folded for 148 in 38.4 overs, never looking comfortable against a disciplined Indian attack.
Group B Scenario: What This Means
This victory serves as a statement to other title contenders like Australia and England. India has virtually secured a spot in the Super Six stage, but the focus now shifts to topping the group to carry maximum points forward.
Coming Up: India will face Scotland in their final group game on Feb 3rd. Given Scotland's struggle against spin, India is expected to test their bench strength in that fixture.
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