Defending Champions India have defeated Pakistan by 40 runs in their opening match of Group-A in the ICC Under 19 Cricket World Cup in Dubai. Chasing a victory target of 263 runs set by India, Pakistan innings folded at 222 runs in 48.4 overs.Earlier, India won the toss and opted to bat first. Superb innings by Sarfaraz Khan and Sanju Samson backed by a good opening partnership saw India post 262 runs for the loss of 7 wickets in stipulated 50 overs. India was off to a quick start as openers Akhil Harwadkar with 41 runs and Ankush Bains with 24 runs put up a quickfire 64 run partnership for the first wicket in just 8 overs. Then a steady bowling by Pakistam saw Indian middle order crumbling and at one time they were at 94 runs for the loss of four wickets in 20 0vers. 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 the role of sheet anchor and made 68 runs. Deepak Hooda made some lusty hits at the close of Indian innings and made 22 runs of just 18 deliveries. For Pakistan Kramat Ali bagged two wickets. Pakistan was off to a rocking start with with Sami Aslam and Imam ul Haq putting on 109 runs for the opening wicket partnership. But after their departure Pakistani innings faltered. Sami Aslam was the top scorer for Pakistan with 64 while Imama ul Haq made 39 and Saud Shakeel contributed 32 runs.For India Deepak Hooda was the star bowler with five wickets to his credit. There were two run outs in the Pakistan innings.