Dubai, November 30, 2024 – Pakistan secured a thrilling victory against arch-rivals India in their opening match of the U19 Asia Cup at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. The team’s impressive bowling performance successfully defended a total of 282 runs.
The star of the match, pacer Ali Raza, spearheaded Pakistan’s bowling attack, creating early pressure on the Indian lineup. Ali claimed three crucial wickets, while his teammates Abdul Subhan and Faham-ul-Haq took two wickets each. Naveed Ahmed Khan dismissed India’s top scorer, Nikhil Kumar, who had kept India’s hopes alive with a resilient 67 runs, including six boundaries and three sixes. Usman, showcasing his all-round ability, contributed with both bat and ball, scoring 61 and taking a wicket.
India’s Nikhil Kumar stood out as the top scorer, but his effort wasn’t enough to chase down the target.
Earlier, Pakistan opted to bat and got off to a dream start with an extraordinary 160-run opening partnership. Shahzaib Khan delivered a record-breaking performance, smashing 159 runs off 147 balls, adorned with five boundaries and 10 sixes. He set a new record for the most sixes in youth ODIs.
Usman supported with a solid 60 runs, but a sudden batting collapse saw Pakistan manage only 281-7 despite the fiery start. Mohammad Riaz was the only other batter to reach double figures.
For India, Samarth Nagaraj impressed with the ball, taking three wickets to restrict Pakistan’s innings.
With this win, Pakistan begins their U19 Asia Cup campaign on a high note, showcasing a blend of individual brilliance and team effort.
