Mohammad Zeeshan’s outstanding performance led Pakistan U19 to a triumphant start in the ACC U19 Asia Cup 2023, securing a seven-wicket victory against Nepal U19 at ICC Academy Ground No 2 in Dubai.
Opting to bowl first, Pakistan U19 reaped the rewards of their decision as right-arm quick Mohammad Zeeshan wreaked havoc on the Nepal U19 batting line-up.
Zeeshan’s exceptional six-wicket haul, conceding only 19 runs, marked the second-best figures by a Pakistani bowler at this level, surpassed only by Shaheen Shah Afridi in 2018.
Supported by his fellow pacers, left-armer Amir Hassan claimed two wickets, and right-armer Ubaid Shah secured one, while left-arm spinner Ali Asfand contributed with a wicket.
Nepal U19 opener Arjun Kumal managed 21 runs, but it was wicketkeeper-batter Uttam Magar who stood firm with a gritty half-century, scoring 51 runs from 76 balls.
Chasing a target of 153, Pakistan U19 faced early setbacks, losing opening batter Shamyl Hussain for a duck. However, captain Saad Baig and Azan Awais orchestrated a remarkable recovery, forging a 108-run partnership. Saad Baig’s 50 and Azan Awais’ unbeaten 56 guided Pakistan U19 to victory in 26.2 overs with seven wickets in hand.
Mohammad Zeeshan not only excelled with the ball but also played a pivotal role in the chase, contributing a fiery 20 runs from just eight balls. Zeeshan’s exceptional performance earned him the well-deserved title of the “Player of the Match.”
The next challenge for Pakistan U19 awaits as they gear up to face India U19 on December 10 at ICC Academy Ground, with the action set to commence at 1030 PKT.
Match Summary:
Pakistan U19 beat Nepal U19 by seven wickets
Nepal U19: 152 all out in 47.2 overs (Uttam Magar 51, Dipesh Kandel 31, Arjun Kumal 21; Mohammad Zeeshan 6-19, Amir Hassan 2-15, Ubaid Shah 1-37, Ali Asfand 1-43)
Pakistan U19: 153-3 in 26.2 overs (Azan Awais 56 not out, Saad Baig 50, Mohammad Zeeshan 20 not out; Gulshan Jha 2-54, Aakash Tripathi 1-8)
Player of the Match: Mohammad Zeeshan (Pakistan U19)