Pakistan Hit by Major Setback Ahead of Must-Win U19 World Cup Match vs India

Pakistan have suffered an injury setback ahead of their must-win ICC Men’s U19 World Cup 2026 Super Sixes match against India, with wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Shayan ruled out, the PCB confirmed.

According to the PCB, Shayan suffered a serious blow to his nose while wicketkeeping to a fast bowler during a scenario-based practice match. He was immediately taken to a nearby hospital, where scans confirmed a fracture.

“Pakistan U19 wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Shayan has been ruled out of the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup after being struck on the nose by a ball while wicket-keeping to a fast bowler during a scenario-based practice match,” the PCB said in a statement.

As a result of the injury, Shayan will miss Pakistan’s high-stakes Super Sixes clash against India, scheduled to be played on Sunday at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo.

The Event Technical Committee of the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2026 has approved Abdul Qadir as Shayan’s replacement in the Pakistan squad.

Shayan featured in two matches during the ongoing tournament. He scored seven runs in Pakistan’s campaign opener against England and did not bat in their previous match against New Zealand.

The injury comes at a crucial stage for Pakistan, who are battling to secure a place in the U19 World Cup 2026 semi-finals, with England and India currently leading the race for qualification.

Pakistan is third in Group 2 of the Super Sixes standings with four points from three matches, two points behind group leaders India and second-placed England.

Their final Super Sixes match against India is a must-win, as a defeat would end Pakistan’s campaign.

In addition to needing a victory, Pakistan will also be hoping for New Zealand to defeat England in their ongoing Super Sixes match, which would negatively affect England’s net run rate and keep Pakistan’s semi-final hopes alive.