Afghanistan Triumphs Over Pakistan in U19 Tri-Series Final

Afghanistan clinched a thrilling 21-run victory over Pakistan in the final of the U19 tri-series held at the ICC Academy in Dubai on Tuesday. A gutsy batting effort by Afghanistan and disciplined bowling at the death ensured the win despite a valiant half-century by Haroon Arshad.

Afghanistan’s Strong Comeback with the Bat

Opting to bat first, Afghanistan found themselves in deep trouble at 91/6 in 26 overs, with Pakistan’s bowlers, especially Ali Raza (3/61) and Subhan (3/41), making early inroads. However, the tide turned with a remarkable 130-run partnership for the seventh wicket between Barkat Ibrahimzai (79 off 90 balls) and Nazifullah Amiri (56 off 60 balls).

Barkat’s innings was laced with six boundaries and three sixes, while Nazifullah struck five fours and two sixes to stabilize the innings. Contributions from Faisal Shinozada (41) further bolstered Afghanistan’s total, allowing them to post a competitive 250/9 in 50 overs.

Pakistan Falls Short Despite Haroon Arshad’s Heroics

Chasing 251, Pakistan struggled to build partnerships. Early dismissals of Usman Khan (8) and Mohammad Riazullah (21) left the team reeling at 55/2 in 15 overs. Shahzaib Khan fought hard with a 98-ball 53, hitting five boundaries, but lacked substantial support from the top order.

Entering at No.5, Haroon Arshad played a superb knock of 70 off 59 balls, including four boundaries, and paired up with Farhan Yousaf (29) for a 51-run partnership. However, Haroon’s dismissal in the 45th over by Nooristani Omarzai proved to be the turning point, as Pakistan’s lower order crumbled under pressure, adding just 31 runs for the last four wickets.

Pakistan was eventually bowled out for 229 in 48 overs, falling 21 runs short. Afghanistan’s bowlers, led by Nooristani Omarzai (2/36) and Naseer Khan Maroofkhil (2/38), kept the pressure on with timely breakthroughs.

Key Performances

• Afghanistan:
  • Barkat Ibrahimzai: 79 (90b, 6×4, 3×6)
  • Nazifullah Amiri: 56 (60b, 5×4, 2×6)
  • Nooristani Omarzai: 2/36
  • Naseer Khan Maroofkhil: 2/38
• Pakistan:
  • Haroon Arshad: 70 (59b, 4×4)
  • Shahzaib Khan: 53 (98b, 5×4)
  • Ali Raza: 3/61
  • Subhan: 3/41

Result: Afghanistan won by 21 runs

With this victory, Afghanistan claimed the U19 tri-series title. Both teams will now shift their focus to the ACC U19 Men’s Asia Cup, set to begin on 29 November in Dubai and Sharjah.