January 16, 2026
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Published by Aeyan Raza
January 2, 2026
Harare: Pakistan Under-19 sealed their spot in the tri-series final with a thumping 133-run victory over Afghanistan U19 at the Sunrise Sports Club, delivering a complete all-round performance on Friday.
After winning the toss and choosing to bat, Pakistan U19 put up a competitive 238 for 9 in their allotted 50 overs. The innings was anchored by Sameer Minhas, who played a composed knock of 56 runs, setting the tone at the top.
He was well supported by Usman Khan, who added a brisk 43 off 59 balls, and Ali Hassan Baloch, who chipped in with a valuable 39. While Pakistan lost wickets at regular intervals, their top-order contributions ensured a defendable total on a pitch offering assistance to bowlers.
Afghanistan’s chase never really got going as Pakistan’s pace attack struck early and kept the pressure on. Right-arm fast bowler Umar Zaib produced a match-winning spell, ripping through the Afghan batting line-up with figures of 5 for 31.
Afghanistan were bowled out for just 105 in 30.2 overs, with only Mahboob Khan showing resistance with 29 runs. Zaib was well backed by Ahmed Hussain (2 wickets) and Momin Qamar (2 wickets), as Pakistan dominated every phase of the game.
Umar Zaib was rightly named Player of the Match for his outstanding performance.
Earlier in the tournament, Pakistan U19 had edged Afghanistan by one wicket in a close contest, while their league match against Zimbabwe U19 was abandoned due to rain. With this emphatic win, Pakistan confirmed their place in the final.
Pakistan will face Zimbabwe U19 in their final league match on January 4, before meeting the hosts again in the tri-series final on January 6.
The convincing margin highlights Pakistan U19’s strong balance between batting depth and pace bowling firepower. With momentum on their side, they head into the final as firm contenders for the title.
