Pakistan U19 continued their impressive form in the ACC Men’s U19 Asia Cup, securing a 69-run win over UAE U19 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Monday. The victory was powered by a second successive century from Shahzaib Khan and a scintillating spell of fast bowling by Abdul Subhan.
Batting First, Pakistan U19 amassed a daunting 314/3 in 50 overs after being sent in by the UAE. Shahzaib Khan, who had scored 159 against India, continued his rich vein of form with a commanding 132 off 136 balls. His innings featured 11 fours and six sixes. He was ably supported by Muhammad Riazullah, whose blazing 106 off 91 balls included nine boundaries and three sixes.
The pair shared a 183-run stand for the second wicket, dominating the UAE bowlers. Usman Khan also contributed with a solid 41 in a 94-run opening partnership with Shahzaib. Riazullah finished the innings strongly, adding 37 runs in the final four overs with Faham-ul-Haq (20*).
In Response, UAE U19 showed glimpses of resistance through a 113-run fourth-wicket stand between Ethan D’Souza (84 off 102) and Muhammad Rayan (50 off 66). However, Abdul Subhan dismantled the middle order with an exceptional spell of 6/57, triggering a collapse from 170/3 to 245/8 at the close of play.
The victory sees Pakistan U19 leading Group A, with the UAE, India, and Japan trailing. Pakistan will next face Japan U19 in their final group match on Wednesday.
Key Performances:
- Shahzaib Khan: 132 (136 balls, 11 fours, 6 sixes)
- Muhammad Riazullah: 106 (91 balls, 9 fours, 3 sixes)
- Abdul Subhan: 10-0-57-6
- Ethan D’Souza: 84 (102 balls, 11 fours)
- Muhammad Rayan: 50 (66 balls, 3 sixes, 1 four)
Brief Scores:
- Pakistan U19: 314/3 in 50 overs (Shahzaib Khan 132, Muhammad Riazullah 106; Noorullah Ayobi 2/68)
- UAE U19: 245/8 in 50 overs (Ethan D’Souza 84, Muhammad Rayan 50; Abdul Subhan 6/57, Mohammad Ahmed 2/45)
Player of the Match: Abdul Subhan (Pakistan U19)
Group Standings Update:
- Group A: Pakistan lead, followed by UAE, India, and Japan.
- Group B: Sri Lanka and Bangladesh remain unbeaten.
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