In a thrilling contest at the National Bank Stadium, Karachi, Sri Lanka U19 managed to defeat Pakistan U19 by three wickets in the fourth one-day match, leveling the five-match series with a game to go. Left-handed opening batter Shahzaib Khan’s magnificent half-century for Pakistan was overshadowed by Sri Lankan leg-spinner Malsha Tharupathi’s incredible four-wicket haul, which secured the visiting team’s second victory in the series.
Sri Lanka won the toss and invited the home team to bat first. Pakistan was bowled out for 186 in 43.1 overs, largely due to Tharupathi’s exceptional performance. He claimed four crucial wickets, conceding just 17 runs, which played a significant role in restricting Pakistan to a below-par total. Right-arm pacer Ruvishan Perera also contributed with two wickets.
Shahzaib Khan was the top scorer for Pakistan U19, crafting an impressive 80 runs from 111 deliveries, which included four boundaries and three maximums. Captain Saad Baig also played a vital role, contributing 45 runs from 53 balls, which included three fours. Right-handed Riazullah Khan retired hurt after sustaining an on-field injury, having scored 14 runs from 22 balls. He has been ruled out for the final match of the series.
Despite a shaky start to their chase, Sri Lanka managed to reach the target in 40.4 overs, losing seven wickets along the way. The innings was anchored by solid performances from Dinura Kalupahana (61) and Rusanda Gamage (46).
Pakistan U19 tried to mount a counter-attack in the second innings with pacers Aftab Ahmed and Ubaid Shah. Aftab claimed three wickets, while Ubaid grabbed two. However, their efforts with the ball were ultimately insufficient as Sri Lanka U19 reached 189.
The fifth one-day match, which promises to be a crucial decider in the series, is scheduled to be played on October 31 at the same venue.
Scores in Brief:
Sri Lanka U19 beat Pakistan U19 by three wickets
Pakistan U19: 186 all out in 43.1 overs (Shahzaib Khan 80, Saad Baig 45; Malsha Tharupathi 4-17, Ruvishan Perera 2-34)
Sri Lanka U19: 189-7 in 40.4 overs (Dinura Kalupahana 61, Rusanda Gamage 46; Aftab Ahmed 3-23, Ubaid Shah 2-41)
Player of the Match – Malsha Tharupathi (Sri Lanka U19)
Leave a Reply