Harare, December 28, 2025 — Pakistan Under-19 displayed remarkable composure under pressure to clinch a dramatic one-wicket victory over Afghanistan Under-19 in the second match of the Zimbabwe-hosted U19 tri-series at Harare Sports Club on Saturday.
Pakistan’s triumph was set up by a disciplined bowling performance led by Usman Khan, who claimed four wickets for 37 runs in his 10 overs. His efforts restricted Afghanistan to a competitive total despite a gritty batting display from their top order.
Afghanistan’s opening batter anchored the innings with a cautious 75 off 106 balls, including four boundaries and a six. Captain Mahboob Khan contributed a valuable 49, while Faisal Shinozada added 31, helping Afghanistan post a fighting total of 226 runs.
In response, Pakistan were made to work hard for every run while chasing 227. The Asian champions suffered an early collapse, losing key top-order batters — including Sameer Minhas for a duck — within the first 13 overs, leaving them reeling at 42 runs.
Captain Farhan Yousaf steadied the innings alongside Ahmed Hussain, and the pair stitched together a crucial 89-run partnership for the fourth wicket. Farhan scored a composed 65 off 78 deliveries, while Ahmed chipped in with a patient 31.
However, Pakistan slipped to 149/6 following a mini-collapse, keeping the contest finely balanced. Wicketkeeper-batter Hamza Zahoor then took charge of the chase, displaying nerves of steel as wickets continued to fall at the other end.
Hamza played a match-winning knock of an unbeaten 68 off just 51 balls, smashing eight fours and a six to guide Pakistan home with three balls to spare.
For Afghanistan, Salam Khan impressed with figures of 4/44, while Zaitullah Shaheen claimed two wickets.
Following this thrilling win, Pakistan U19 will face hosts Zimbabwe in their next fixture at the same venue on Monday.