A commanding all-round performance, led by Sameer Minhas’ unbeaten half-century and a three-wicket haul from pacer Ali Raza, helped Pakistan U19 defeat Zimbabwe U19 by eight wickets in their Group C match of the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup at the Takashinga Sports Club, Harare, on Thursday. The emphatic victory also confirmed Pakistan’s qualification for the Super Six stage of the tournament.
Pakistan Bowlers Dominate Early
After winning the toss and opting to field, Pakistan’s bowlers wasted no time in putting Zimbabwe under pressure. Ali Raza, who had already impressed with four wickets against Scotland in the previous match, once again led the attack with pace, accuracy and discipline.
Wicketkeeper Hamza Zahoor set the tone with a sharp diving catch to his right to dismiss Kian Blignaut, while skipper Farhan Yousaf produced a moment of brilliance in the field, diving full stretch to remove Zimbabwe’s top scorer Nathaniel Hlabangana off Momin Qamar’s bowling.
Despite Hlabangana’s fighting knock of 59 off 85 balls, which included seven fours and a six, Zimbabwe struggled to build partnerships as Pakistan’s bowlers maintained tight lines.
Ali Raza Leads the Attack
Right-arm fast bowler Ali Raza finished with impressive figures of 3 for 16 in eight overs, removing Kupakwashe Muradzi, Kian Blignaut, and Brandon Senzere. He was well supported by Abdul Subhan and Mohammad Sayyam, who claimed two wickets each, while left-arm spinner Momin Qamar also picked up two scalps.
Zimbabwe were eventually bowled out for 128 in 35.5 overs, a total that always looked below par on a surface offering decent batting conditions.
Sameer Minhas Anchors Comfortable Chase
Chasing a modest target, Pakistan U19 approached the run chase with composure and confidence. Sameer Minhas anchored the innings superbly, scoring an unbeaten 74 off 75 balls, laced with six fours and three sixes. His innings ensured there were no hiccups as Pakistan cruised toward victory.
Sameer found able support in Usman Khan, who contributed a brisk 26, adding 49 runs for the second wicket. Ahmed Hussain then finished the chase with a calm 24 not out, as Pakistan reached 132 for 2 in 26.2 overs, winning with a massive 142 balls to spare.
Super Six Qualification Confirmed
The convincing win earned Pakistan two crucial points and secured their place in the Super Six stage of the ICC U19 World Cup. Pakistan finished second in Group C (C2) and will now face B3 at the Harare Sports Club on 27 January, followed by a clash against B1 at the Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo, on 1 February.
With net run-rate likely to play a decisive role in the race for the semi-finals, Pakistan’s dominant victory over Zimbabwe could prove vital.
Sameer Minhas Reflects on Match-Winning Knock
Speaking to PCB Digital after being named Player of the Match, Sameer Minhas expressed satisfaction with the team’s overall performance.
“Qualifying for the Super Six stage is a big achievement for us as a team. After getting out early in my previous innings, my focus today was to spend time at the crease, keep things simple and trust my basics,” he said.
Praising Pakistan’s fielding efforts, Sameer added:
“Our fielding and bowling were very encouraging. Fielding was a big positive for us. The fielding coach has worked extensively with us, and it showed on the field.”
Looking ahead, he acknowledged the challenges to come:
“The Super Six stage will be tough with quality teams and two crucial matches. Our aim will be to win with a healthy net run-rate, which will be vital heading into the semi-finals.”
Scores in Brief
Pakistan U19 beat Zimbabwe U19 by eight wickets
Zimbabwe U19: 128 all out in 35.5 overs
(Nathaniel Hlabangana 59; Ali Raza 3-16, Abdul Subhan 2-14, Mohammad Sayyam 2-36, Momin Qamar 2-39)
Pakistan U19: 132/2 in 26.2 overs
(Sameer Minhas 74*; Usman Khan 26; Ahmed Hussain 24*)
Player of the Match: Sameer Minhas
With momentum firmly on their side, Pakistan U19 now turn their focus to the Super Six stage, where consistent performances with both bat and ball will be key as they chase another ICC U19 World Cup title.
