Pakistan U19 Triumphs Over India U19 with Hamza Zahoor's Century
Pakistan U19 Secures Victory Against India U19
Muscat [Oman], November 8: Hamza Zahoor's remarkable unbeaten century propelled Pakistan Under-19 to a thrilling three-wicket win against India Under-19 during their ACC Under-19 Asia Cup group-stage clash at the Al Amerat Cricket Ground on Sunday.
In pursuit of a target set at 209, Pakistan found themselves in a tough spot at 61/5 but managed to recover, finishing at 209/7 in 48.1 overs, clinching victory with 11 balls remaining. Zahoor's performance was pivotal, as he scored 100 runs off 108 balls, showcasing his ability to remain calm under pressure.
Hasnain Dar also played a vital role, contributing 38 runs, and together they formed a crucial partnership of 107 runs that revitalized Pakistan's innings after a shaky start against India's bowlers, who had taken five wickets within the first 15 overs.
Earlier in the match, India opted to bat first after winning the toss but was bowled out for 208 in 46.3 overs. Pakistan's fast bowlers made an immediate impact, leaving India struggling at 86/5 in 22.5 overs, with captain Lakshya Raichandani (0), Aaryavir Sehwag (22), VK Vineeth (8), Yashbardhan Chauhan (1), and Anvay Dravid (10) all failing to make significant contributions.
However, Arjun Rajput's explosive innings brought India back into contention. He scored a brilliant 107 runs off just 85 balls, hitting 11 fours and five sixes, and anchored the innings despite losing partners at the other end.
Rajput's century was instrumental in helping India surpass the 200-run mark, providing a defendable total for their bowlers.
For Pakistan, the bowling attack was led by Ali Raza, Rizwanullah, and spinner Niqab Shafiq, each claiming three wickets to limit India to 208 runs.
India started their bowling defense strongly, putting Pakistan under pressure early on, but Zahoor and Dar's resilience turned the tide, allowing Pakistan to rebuild their innings.
Zahoor's century was crucial as he guided his team to victory, ensuring they finished at 209/7 in 48.1 overs, marking a memorable three-wicket win.
This victory places Pakistan at the top of the Group A standings in the ACC Men’s U19 Asia Cup 2026, following their earlier win against UAE by nine wickets.
India, on the other hand, is currently second in Group A after one win and one loss, having previously defeated Nepal by 10 wickets.