Pakistan Dominates Afghanistan in Spectacular U19 World Cup Debut

Impressive Innings Lead to 181-Run Victory for Boys in Green

In an outstanding debut at the 2024 ICC U19 World Cup in East London, South Africa, Pakistan showcased their prowess by defeating Afghanistan with a convincing 181-run lead.

Batting Brilliance: Shahzaib Khan’s Exceptional Century

Opting to bat first, Pakistan set a formidable target of 284 for Afghanistan. The standout performer, Shahzaib Khan, displayed cricketing excellence with an impressive century. His resilient innings of 106 runs, including 10 boundaries and three sixes, contributed significantly to Pakistan’s commanding position.

Captain’s Contribution: Saad Baig’s Noteworthy Knock

Captain Saad Baig played a pivotal role in the batting lineup, contributing a commendable 55 runs with a brisk strike rate of 105.76. His innings featured 3 boundaries and 4 sixes, adding valuable runs to Pakistan’s total.

Supporting Cast: Riaz Ullah and Ubaid Shah Shine

Riaz Ullah and Ubaid Shah added to the batting spectacle, with Riaz contributing a crucial 46 runs, while Ubaid Shah smashed a 22-run cameo. The collective effort propelled Pakistan to a formidable total.

Bowling Masterclass: Pakistan’s Dominance Continues

In the second innings, Pakistan’s bowlers maintained relentless pressure on Afghanistan. Ubaid Shah emerged as a bowling force, claiming 4 wickets while conceding 26 runs, displaying an impressive economy rate of 3.71.

Bowling Figures: Amir Hassan, Mohammad Zeeshan, and Ahmed Hussain Shine

Amir Hassan bowled a tight spell, taking one wicket with an economy rate of 5.53. Mohammad Zeeshan showcased his bowling prowess, claiming 3 wickets for 17 runs at an economical rate of 3.40. Ahmed Hussain contributed with a wicket, maintaining a tight spell with an economy rate of 4.00.

Upcoming Challenges: Pakistan’s Schedule and Squad

Pakistan’s U19 team faces Nepal on January 24 and New Zealand on January 27 in East London. The squad, led by Saad Baig, comprises promising talent, including vice-captain Ali Asfand and standout performers like Shahzaib Khan and Ubaid Shah.

U19 Squad and Support Staff

Playing Squad:

• Saad Baig (captain and wicketkeeper)
• Ali Asfand (vice-captain)
• Ali Raza, Ahmad Hassan, Amir Hassan, Arafat Minhas
• Azan Awais, Haroon Arshad, Khubaib Khalil
• Mohammad Zeeshan, Naveed Ahmed Khan, Shahzaib Khan
• Shamyl Hussain, Muhammad Riazullah, Ubaid Shah.

Support Staff:

• Shoaib Mohammad (Team Manager)
• Mohammad Yousaf (Head Coach)
• Rehan Riaz (Bowling Coach)
• Mansoor Amjad (Fielding Coach)
• Muhammad Masroor (Assistant Batting Coach)
• Umer Rashid Dar (Assistant Coach)
• Hafiz Naeem Ul Rasul (Team Physio)
• Usman Hashmi (Team Analyst)
• Imran Ullah (Strength & Conditioning Coach).

In conclusion, Pakistan’s triumphant debut in the U19 World Cup sets a promising tone for the upcoming matches, showcasing a perfect blend of batting brilliance and bowling mastery.