India Face Pakistan in High-Stakes U-19 Asia Cup Clash, Eye Semi-Final Berth

India will look to settle scores with arch-rivals Pakistan when the two sides meet in a high-stakes Under-19 Asia Cup Group A clash in Oman on Sunday, with a semi-final berth at stake.

Both teams enter the contest after convincing victories. India thrashed Nepal by 10 wickets, chasing down 128 in just 19.1 overs, while Pakistan registered a nine-wicket win over hosts UAE after successfully chasing 225 in 37.3 overs.

Much of India's batting hopes will rest on Aaryavir Sehwag, son of former India opener Virender Sehwag, who announced himself with an unbeaten 70 off 52 balls against Nepal. His innings featured seven fours and four sixes. Captain Lakshya Raichandani also remained unbeaten on 53 as India completed the chase without losing a wicket.

The squad also features Anvay Dravid, son of former India captain Rahul Dravid, who handled wicketkeeping duties against Nepal.

Pakistan, meanwhile, will bank on opener Usman Khan, who smashed an unbeaten 139 off 120 balls against UAE. Captain Farhan Yousaf and in-form batters Jahangir Bilal and Abdul Qadir will add to India's challenge.

For India, pacer Ishan Sood, who claimed three wickets for 18 runs against Nepal, will be crucial. Spinners Yashveer Goud and Arjun Rajput, who shared five wickets, will also have an important role.

The encounter carries added significance after Pakistan defeated India by a massive 191 runs in the previous edition in Dubai. A victory on Sunday would guarantee either side a top-two finish in Group A and a semi-final place.

The match begins at 10 am IST. The semi-finals are scheduled for November 12 and the final for November 14.