Bangladesh Stun Pakistan to Seal Spot in U19 Asia Cup Final

Bangladesh U19 delivered a commanding performance to defeat Pakistan U19 by seven wickets in the semi-final of the ACC U19 Asia Cup at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Bangladesh will face India in the final on December 8, following India’s victory over Sri Lanka in the other semi-final.

Match Summary

Pakistan’s Innings:

After opting to bat, Pakistan struggled from the outset against a disciplined Bangladesh bowling attack.

• Key Performances:
  • Farhan Yousaf: Top-scored with a spirited 32 off 32 balls, including one boundary and three sixes.
  • Muhammad Riazullah: Contributed a patient 28 off 62 balls in a 42-run partnership with captain Saad Baig.
  • Iqbal Hossain Emon: Was the star for Bangladesh, taking a brilliant 4/24 in eight overs, dismantling Pakistan’s middle order.
  • Maruf Mridha: Struck early with two wickets, leaving Pakistan at 7-2.

Pakistan were bowled out for a paltry 116 in 37 overs, a total far below par for a knockout game.

Bangladesh’s Chase:

Bangladesh chased the target comfortably in 22.1 overs, thanks to an unbeaten half-century from their captain.

• Key Performances:
  • Azizul Hakim: Played a match-winning innings of 61 not out off 42 balls, hitting seven boundaries and three sixes.
  • Mohammad Shihab James: Supported with 26 off 36 balls, ensuring no hiccups in the chase.
  • Pakistan’s Bowlers:
    • Ali Raza, Abdul Subhan, and Naveed Ahmed Khan each picked up a wicket, but the modest target left little room for error.

Bangladesh finished at 117/3, securing a dominant seven-wicket victory.

Player of the Match

Iqbal Hossain Emon was awarded Player of the Match for his outstanding bowling figures of 4/24, which set up the victory for Bangladesh.

Looking Ahead

• Final Match: Bangladesh will take on India in the final on Sunday, December 8, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
• Pakistan’s Campaign Ends: Despite an unbeaten group stage, Pakistan’s journey ended in disappointment with their batting failing to deliver under pressure.

Quick Stats from the Match:

• Pakistan U19: 116 all out in 37 overs (Farhan Yousaf 32, Muhammad Riazullah 28; Iqbal Hossain Emon 4/24, Maruf Mridha 2/15)
• Bangladesh U19: 117/3 in 22.1 overs (Azizul Hakim 61*, Mohammad Shihab James 26; Ali Raza 1/19, Abdul Subhan 1/22)
• Result: Bangladesh U19 won by seven wickets

Bangladesh’s strong all-round display now sets up an exciting final against their arch-rivals India, with both teams vying for the U19 Asia Cup title.