Defending Champions India began their quest for yet another ICC Under 19 Cricket World Cup defeating Pakistan by 40 runs in their opening match of Group-A in the ICC Under 19 Cricket World Cup in Dubai. Superb innings by Sarfaraz Khan and Sanju Samson backed by a good opening wicket partnership saw India post 262 runs for the loss of 7 wickets in stipulated 50 overs. In reply Pakistan innings folded at 222 runs in 48.4 overs. Deepak Hooda bagged five wickets for India. Top scorer of the match Sarfaraz Khan was adjudged the Man of the Match. Skipper Vijay Zol said team India will continue to strive for the best in the tournament.India won the toss at the ICC Cricket Stadium in Dubai and opted to bat first. Openers Akhil Harwadkar gave a flying start as they put on 64 runs in just eight overs for the first wicket.A steady bowling by Pakistan stemmed the flow of runs and saw a mini Indian collapse with scorecard reading 94 runs for the loss of four wickets in 20 overs. Sanju Samson and Sarfaraz Khan then took charge and steadied the Indian innings. Sarfaraz Khan was the top scorer with 74 runs of 78 deliveries. Sanju Samson played a mature knock of 68 runs. Deepak Hooda made some lusty hits at the close of Indian innings with 22 runs of 18 deliveries. Chasing a victory target of 263 runs, Pakistan were off to a rocking start with Sami Aslam and Imam ul Haq putting on 109 runs for the opening wicket partnership. But their departure and two run outs saw Pakistan innings buckle under pressure. Sami Aslam was the top scorer for Pakistan with 64runs. Deepak Hooda was the pick of Indian bowlers with a five wickets haul. A good win to start with for team India in the tournament.