Pakistan U19 clinched a hard-fought victory against Ireland U19 by three wickets in hand during their opening clash of the Super Six stage.
Ireland U19 faced early adversities as Ubaid Shah and Ali Raza wreaked havoc on their top-order batsmen. Shah and Raza dismissed key players like Jordan Neill and Ryan Hunter, putting Ireland in a tight spot.
The pressure continued to mount as Ahmad Hassan and Haroon Arshad joined the attack, claiming the wickets of Gavin Roulston and Philippus le Roux. Ireland found themselves struggling at 39-5, but a resilient partnership between John McNally and Harry Dyer added 65 runs to the total.
Despite McNally’s commendable half-century, Ali Raza and Ubaid Shah struck again, and Ireland eventually folded for 181 runs, with Ubaid leading the bowling charts with three crucial wickets.
In response, Pakistan’s openers faced early setbacks, losing Shahzaib Khan and Shamyl Hussain. However, Azan Awais and Saad Baig provided stability with a 47-run partnership. Harry Dyer, showcasing his all-round abilities, picked up crucial wickets, leaving Pakistan at 78-4.
The dismissal of Ubaid Shah increased the pressure on Pakistan, but Ahmad Hassan and Haroon Arshad’s determined 63-run partnership turned the tide in their favor.
With the match hanging in the balance, Haroon Arshad departed after contributing 25 runs, but Ahmad Hassan stood firm, crossing the fifty-run mark.
Arafat Minhas fell with 20 runs still needed, but Ahmad, well-supported by Ali Asfand, guided Pakistan to victory with an unbeaten 57 off 72 balls. Despite Harry Dyer’s impressive four-wicket haul for Ireland, Pakistan U19 demonstrated resilience and skill in a challenging run-chase.
The victory has boosted Pakistan U19’s confidence as they now prepare to face Bangladesh U19 in their next Super Six fixture on February 3 at Benoni.
The team’s ability to navigate through challenging situations and secure a win bodes well for their prospects in the ongoing U19 Cricket World Cup. Cricket enthusiasts eagerly await the upcoming matches, anticipating more nail-biting contests and stellar performances from these young talents.