Pakistan U19 gears up for clash against arch-rivals India in ACC Asia Cup

Pakistan U19 gears up for clash against arch-rivals India in ACC Asia Cup

Asher Butt

The cricketing world is abuzz as the much-anticipated encounter between Pakistan U19 and India U19 looms large at the ICC Cricket Academy Ground in Dubai on Sunday. The clash promises high-intensity action and intense rivalry as both teams vie for supremacy in the ACC U19 Asia Cup.

 

Pakistan's Dominant Start:

Pakistan U19 commenced their U19 Asia Cup campaign with a resounding seven-wicket victory over Nepal U19 at the ICC Cricket Academy. The decision to bowl first paid off handsomely as 18-year-old pacer Zeeshan delivered a stellar performance, claiming six wickets for just 19 runs. His remarkable figures rank as the second-best in U19 Asia Cup history for a Pakistani bowler, second only to Shaheen Shah Afridi's exceptional 6-15 against Ireland U19 in 2018.

 

Commanding Partnership and Quick Chase:

Chasing a target of 153, Pakistan found themselves at 23-2, but a brilliant partnership between skipper Saad Baig and Azan Awais, worth 108 runs off 107 balls, steered the innings. Zeeshan, not just a bowling sensation, displayed his prowess with the bat, smashing a fiery 20 runs in just eight balls, including two fours and two sixes. Pakistan achieved the target in a mere 26.2 overs, securing a net run rate of +2.770.

 

Anticipating the Rivalry:

The last encounter between Pakistan U19 and India U19 resulted in a thrilling two-wicket victory for the Qasim Akram-led side in 2021. Mohammad Shahzad's standout performance earned him the Player of the Match accolade for his crucial 81 runs in the chase of a 238-run target.

 

Coach Mohammad Yousaf's Perspective:

Pakistan U19 head coach Mohammad Yousaf expressed satisfaction with the team's overall performance. He praised the bowlers for their responsible display and lauded the solid fifties from captain Saad Baig and Azan Awais. The decision to promote Zeeshan up the order as a pinch hitter paid off, showcasing his versatility as both a bowler and a competent batter.

 

Coach Yousaf emphasized the extraordinary talent of Zeeshan, highlighting his strong physique and height as assets. He commended Zeeshan's ability to bowl with precision and contribute as a pinch hitter, a strategy that benefits the team's overall performance.

 

As the teams prepare for the high-stakes encounter, cricket enthusiasts eagerly await the showdown between these cricketing giants, with both Pakistan U19 and India U19 geared up for a riveting contest.