In an exhilarating encounter at the ICC Cricket Academy Ground in Dubai, Pakistan U19 clinched a convincing victory over Afghanistan U19, securing a place in the semi-finals of the ACC U19 Asia Cup 2023. Pakistan’s sterling performance, marked by exceptional batting and bowling displays, paved the way for an 83-run triumph.
Opting to bat first, Pakistan U19 delivered a commanding batting performance, propelled by stellar contributions from their top order. Openers Shamyl Hussain and Shahzaib Khan set the stage ablaze with a remarkable 115-run partnership. Shamyl’s aggressive knock of 75 off 54 deliveries, complemented by seven boundaries and five towering sixes, laid a strong foundation for Pakistan’s innings.
Despite a few breakthroughs by Afghanistan U19’s skipper Naseer Khan Maroofkhil, Pakistan’s middle order stood tall. Shahzaib Khan’s impressive 79 from 95 deliveries, embellished with nine fours and a six, along with Riazullah Khan’s composed 73 off 69 deliveries, fortified Pakistan’s innings, setting a challenging target of 303 runs.
In response, Afghanistan U19 faced an early setback as Pakistan’s pace duo of Khubaib Khalil and Ubaid Shah struck crucial blows, reducing the opposition to 52-3 at the end of the first powerplay. Ubaid Shah’s relentless spell resulted in key dismissals, while Khalil’s early breakthroughs set the tone for Afghanistan U19’s innings.
Despite a valiant effort by Numan Shah, who battled to a resilient half-century, supported by Faridoon Dawoodzai’s spirited 32, Pakistan U19’s bowling unit remained dominant. Ubaid Shah’s three-wicket haul and Tayyab Arif’s crucial contributions further dented Afghanistan U19’s hopes, restricting them to 220 all out in 48.4 overs.
Shamyl Hussain’s all-around performance, which included a blistering half-century and a crucial wicket, earned him the coveted Player of the Match award, underscoring his impactful display for Pakistan U19.
With this commanding victory, Pakistan U19 solidifies their spot in the semi-finals, showcasing their mettle and determination in the ACC U19 Asia Cup 2023. The thrilling encounters in the semi-finals are scheduled to commence at 1030 PKT on 15 December, promising another chapter of intense cricketing action in the tournament.
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