The solitary four-day match between Pakistan U19 and Sri Lanka U19 got underway today at the National Stadium Karachi. After winning the toss, Pakistan’s U19 captain, Saad Baig, elected to bat first in this one-off contest and, thanks to an impressive top-order performance, posted 319 runs for the loss of just one wicket.
Here’s a summary of the day’s play:
Pakistan U19 (1st innings) – 319-1 in 90 overs:
Openers Shahzaib Khan and Azan Awais provided Pakistan U19 with a fantastic start, stitching together a formidable 228-run partnership for the first wicket. Azan played an impressive knock, scoring 104 runs from 221 balls, including seven boundaries. He was the only wicket to fall on the day, dismissed by Sri Lanka U19’s left-arm spinner, Viswha Lahiru.
Shahzaib Khan, displaying remarkable batting prowess throughout the day, remained unbeaten at stumps with an impressive 152 runs from 263 balls, which included 12 boundaries and one six. This marks Shahzaib’s second century in this format this year, as he had previously scored 174 runs during a four-day match on the Bangladesh tour.
Pakistan U19’s skipper, Saad Baig, played a captain’s innings and was also unbeaten at the close of play. He contributed an excellent 56 not out from 58 balls, featuring four boundaries and one six. Together, Shahzaib and Saad have put on an unbroken 91-run partnership for the second wicket.
Pakistan U19 is well-placed to build a commanding first-innings total when they resume batting tomorrow. The strong foundation laid by the top order is a promising sign for the home team.
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