Pakistan’s U19 cricket team is gearing up for a high-stakes push in the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2026, having secured their spot in the Super Six stage. The young Shaheens demonstrated solid form in Group C, finishing as runners-up with convincing victories over Scotland (by six wickets) and Zimbabwe (by eight wickets), despite a 37-run loss to an unbeaten England side that topped the group. Zimbabwe also advanced as third-placed qualifiers.
Under the guidance of head coach Shahid Anwar, the squad held an intensive training session at Takashinga Cricket Club in Harare on Sunday. The focus was on realistic, scenario-based match practice—assigning specific targets to batters and bowlers to sharpen decision-making under pressure. This hands-on approach aims to build adaptability and composure ahead of the knockout rounds.
The team returns to the same venue for another session on Monday, before launching their Super Six campaign on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, against New Zealand at the Harare Sports Club. Their second and decisive Super Six clash comes against arch-rivals India on Sunday, February 1, 2026, at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo. These two fixtures will be crucial in determining semi-final qualification, as only the top two teams from each Super Six group advance.
Fielding Excellence: The Hidden Weapon for Pakistan U19
A standout highlight of Pakistan’s campaign so far has been their electric fielding unit. Fielding coach Mansoor Amjad—a member of Pakistan’s triumphant 2004 U19 World Cup-winning squad—praised the players’ commitment in an exclusive chat with PCB Digital.
“Our fielding standards have been very encouraging,” Amjad said. “The number of catches taken, especially at crucial moments, reflects the hard work put in by the players. Alongside that, the players have saved valuable runs, which has made a significant difference for the team.”
He emphasized the deliberate culture the team built before the tournament: one rooted in fearlessness and laser-like focus. Players were trained to anticipate every ball coming their way, staying switched on and proactive in every situation.
“We are fortunate to have a group of naturally skilled fielders who are quick to adapt and eager to improve,” Amjad added. “The players regularly discuss areas where improvement is needed and respond positively to feedback, which is reflected in their performances on the field.”
Individual standouts include Ahmed Hussain, whose safe hands have shone consistently from the Asia Cup and tri-nation series through to the World Cup. Captain Farhan Yousaf, Usman Khan, and Sameer Minhas have also impressed with athletic efforts, while the wicket-keeper has pulled off some exceptional catches to back the bowlers.
In a tournament where margins are razor-thin, Pakistan’s sharp fielding could prove the decisive edge as they chase a deep run—and potentially another U19 World Cup title to add to their storied history.
