Last time we saw the two sides clashing in Manchester on 16th June at the world cup. But that was a group game. However, a world cup semi-final between the two sides has been a memory from 2011.
Well, while the political tensions between the two countries are at a peak you can’t expect cricket on the field. Not anymore as an India vs Pakistan World Cup semi-final is now a reality. If you are wondering how then let me tell you that both the teams have made it to the semis of the ICC U-19 World Cup.
The 4 times champion India would now face the 2 times winner Pakistan on 4th February 2020. The match would be played at Senwes Park, Potchefstroom in South Africa. India who is unbeaten in the tournament so far and is defending champion beat Australia U-19 in the quater-finals.
Pakistan too has been unbeaten but have not faced quality opponents so far in the tournament. Their wins have come against Scotland, Zimbabwe and Afghanistan. They beat Afghanistan in the quarter-final played yesterday. However, unlike the senior side, Pakistan U-19 has beaten their Indian counterparts in an ICC tournament. They pip India in the final of the 2006 World Cup.
Interestingly there are 3 Asian teams in the last four. Bangladesh is also in the semi-final of the tournament. They would face New Zealand in the 2nd semi-final on 6th February. This means that one Asian side would definitely be a part of World Cup semi-final.
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The ICC U-19 World Cup which is a showpiece event in international U-19 circuit is a budding ground for future stars of the game. Cricketers like Virat Kohli, Shikhar Dhawan, Steve Smith, Kane Williamson are the find of this tournament. The tournament his held once in 2 years.
