India to play Pakistan on February 1 amid T20 World Cup 2026 controversy

India secured a dominant finish in the group stages of the U19 World Cup, claiming their third straight win to top Group B. With a flawless record in the round-robin stage, the five-time champions are now set to face Pakistan in what promises to be an electrifying encounter in the Super Six stage. The much-anticipated match is scheduled for February 1 in Bulawayo.

India's impressive run included commanding victories over USA, Bangladesh, and New Zealand. Their opening match against the USA was a clinical display, with India bowling out their opponents for just 107 runs and chasing down the revised target comfortably with six wickets in hand and 118 balls to spare. Against Bangladesh, India posted a solid 238 runs, and though Bangladesh fought valiantly, getting within 18 runs of the revised target, they



were eventually bowled out, handing India another win.

The final group-stage match, a rain-affected game against New Zealand, saw India bowl out the Kiwis for just 135 in 37 overs. The revised target of 130 was easily chased down in 13.3 overs with seven wickets remaining. India, finishing as the top team in Group B, now look forward to their Super Six clashes, including the high-profile match against the arch-rivals Pakistan.

This upcoming game in Bulawayo will begin at 1 pm. Ahead of that, the Ayush Mhatre led-lside will also play Zimbabwe on January 27. Meanwhile, the development arrived amid the T20 World Cup 2026 controversy, as PCB chariman Mohsin Naqvi mentioned that the Prime Minister will confirm if they will feature in the tournament or boycott in support of Bangladesh.