Pakistan secured a 69-run victory over UAE to advance to the semi-finals of the U19 Asia Cup, having already triumphed over arch-rivals India in their opening match.
Batting first after being put in by the UAE, Pakistan posted a formidable total of 314 for three in 50 overs, with No. 3 batter Muhammad Riazullah playing a key role.
Fast bowler Abdul Subhan was the standout performer with the ball, earning the player-of-the-match award for his exceptional figures of 10-0-57-6. His brilliant spell helped Pakistan break the UAE’s resistance as they collapsed from 170 for three to 245 for eight.
Shahzaib Khan, who had scored 159 against India, continued his strong form, hitting 11 fours and six sixes in a knock of 132 off 136 balls. Riazullah was equally impressive, scoring 106 off 91 balls with nine fours and three sixes.
Together, Shahzaib and Riazullah put on a massive 183-run partnership for the second wicket in just over 27 overs. This followed a solid 94-run opening stand between Shahzaib and Usman Khan, who contributed 41 runs.
After Shahzaib’s dismissal in the 46th over, Riazullah added 37 more runs in the final four overs alongside Faham-ul-Haq, who remained unbeaten on 20.
Chasing the steep target, the UAE were reduced to 57 for three, but a resilient 113-run partnership between Ethan D’Souza (84 off 102 balls) and Muhammad Rayan (50 off 66 balls) revived their hopes. However, the loss of Rayan at 170 ended their challenge, and the UAE were bowled out for 245.
Pakistan’s victory places them at the top of Group A, followed by the UAE, India, and Japan. In Group B, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh lead with two wins each, while Afghanistan and Nepal have yet to register a victory. The top two teams from each group will advance to the semifinals.
Pakistan’s next match is against Japan on Wednesday at the Dubai International Sports Stadium.
