Left-arm wrist spinner Mohammad Huzaifa delivered a stellar performance, taking 5/8 as Pakistan U19 defeated Japan U19 by 180 runs in their final Group-A match of the ACC Men’s U19 Asia Cup. The victory at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium ensured Pakistan finished the group stage undefeated and secured a semi-final clash against Bangladesh.
Pakistan’s Innings:
After opting to bat, Pakistan overcame a shaky start, losing two early wickets and struggling at 100/5 by the 25th over.
- Key Performances:
- Mohammad Riazullah: Anchored the innings with an unbeaten 66 off 86 balls, featuring four boundaries and one six.
- Shahzaib Khan: Contributed a composed 45 off 69 balls after scoring centuries in the first two matches.
- Ahmed Hussain: Powered the finish with a quick 30 not out off 22 balls, forming a 61-run unbroken partnership with Riazullah in the last six overs.
- Bowling for Japan:
- Nihar Parmar: Impressive with figures of 2/18, while four others chipped in with a wicket each.
Pakistan ended their innings at 243/6 in 50 overs, setting Japan a challenging target of 244.
Japan’s Chase:
Japan struggled from the start, managing only 19 runs for their opening partnership, the highest of their innings.
- Top Performer:
- Nihar Parmar: Scored a resilient 25 off 60 balls with three boundaries, the only batter to reach double figures.
- Bowling for Pakistan:
- Mohammad Huzaifa: Claimed a remarkable 5/8 in 6.3 overs, dismantling Japan’s batting lineup with four bowled dismissals and one LBW.
- Mohammad Ahmed (2/9) and Ahmed Hussain (2/17) provided strong support.
Japan were bowled out for a mere 63 in 28.3 overs, handing Pakistan a dominant 180-run victory.
Player of the Match
Mohammad Huzaifa was deservedly named Player of the Match for his sensational five-wicket haul, which spearheaded Pakistan’s commanding performance.
Looking Ahead
- Semi-Finals: Pakistan will face Bangladesh on Friday, December 6, in their bid for a spot in the final.
- Group-A Standings: Pakistan topped the group with three consecutive wins, showcasing a balanced side with both batting depth and bowling firepower.
Quick Stats from the Match:
- Pakistan U19: 243/6 in 50 overs (Mohammad Riazullah 66*, Shahzaib Khan 45; Nihar Parmar 2/18)
- Japan U19: 63 all out in 28.3 overs (Nihar Parmar 25; Mohammad Huzaifa 5/8, Mohammad Ahmed 2/9)
- Result: Pakistan U19 won by 180 runs
Pakistan’s confidence is soaring as they prepare to take on Bangladesh in a crucial semi-final. Their all-round performances continue to highlight their potential as tournament favorites.
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