Pakistan U-19 started their ACC U-19 Asia Cup campaign by defeating arch-rivals India by 44 runs at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Saturday.
Shahzeb Khan’s brilliant innings of 159 runs and the disciplined bowling effort of the Pakistani bowlers played an important role in this win.
After Pakistan U-19 captain Saad Baig won the toss and elected to bat, openers Shahzeb Khan and Usman Khan put on a solid partnership of 130 runs, frustrating the Indian bowlers.
Usman scored 60 off 94 balls, including six fours, before falling to Ayush Mahatre. Mahatre struck again in the very next over, dismissing Haroon Arshad (3).
Undeterred by setbacks, Shahzeb forged a crucial 71-run partnership with Mohammad Riazullah (27) to take Pakistan to 241 by the 44th over.
Despite losing wickets at regular intervals thereafter, Shahzeb went on to score a brilliant 159 off 147 balls, which was aided by ten sixes and five fours. Pakistan ended their innings at 281-7 in 50 overs.
India’s bowling attack was led by Samarth Nagaraj who took three wickets while Ayush Mahatre took two wickets. Yudhajit Guha and Kiran Chormale took one wicket each.
In reply, the India U-19 team was bowled out for 237 runs in 47.3 overs. On behalf of Pakistan, Ali Raza took three wickets while Abdul Subhan and Fahamul Haq took two wickets each.
Naveed Ahmed Khan and Usman Khan also got one wicket each.
India’s chase failed as they struggled to build partnerships, falling 44 runs short of the target.
With this victory, Pakistan will also be eyeing their next match against the United Arab Emirates on December 2.
Meanwhile, India will face Japan on the same day in an attempt to make a comeback.
Meanwhile, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi praised the Pakistan U-19 cricket team for their impressive victory against India.
Congratulating the team, Naqvi praised Shahzeb Khan’s brilliant century, calling his innings the foundation of Pakistan’s victory. “Shahzeb’s exceptional batting performance was the cornerstone of this important victory,” he said.
Naqvi also praised Usman Khan for his valuable contribution, highlighting his role in building a strong partnership that frustrated the Indian bowlers.
Acknowledging the collective efforts of the players, Naqvi said,
“The U19 team played as a unified unit, which was key to their success. Their hard work and determination paid off.”
Chairman PCB encouraged the team to maintain the winning momentum in the upcoming matches.
“I am sure the U-19 team will continue this winning streak in the next games,” said Naqvi.