HARARE: Pakistan Under-19 produced a stunning comeback to defeat Afghanistan Under-19 in a last-over thriller during the ongoing U19 Tri-Nation Series in Zimbabwe, keeping fans on the edge of their seats until the very end.
Afghanistan Bowled Out for 226 After Strong Start
After winning the toss, Pakistan Under-19 opted to field first — a decision that paid dividends despite Afghanistan’s competitive batting display. The Afghanistan Under-19 side fought hard but was eventually bowled out for 226 runs.
Pakistan’s bowling unit showed discipline in the middle overs, with Usman Khan emerging as the standout performer. The pacer claimed four crucial wickets, consistently breaking partnerships and preventing Afghanistan from posting a bigger total.
Pakistan’s Chase Turns Into a Dramatic Battle
Chasing 227 was never going to be easy, and Pakistan’s innings reflected that challenge. The Green Shirts suffered regular setbacks, losing wickets at key intervals and slipping into serious trouble at 201 for 9.
However, the match took a dramatic turn thanks to a calm and courageous innings by Hamza Zahoor, who remained unbeaten on 68. Earlier in the chase, Pakistan captain Farhan Yousuf played a vital knock of 65, anchoring the innings when wickets were falling around him.
Last-Wicket Heroics Seal Famous Win
With pressure mounting and the target still out of reach, Hamza Zahoor found an able partner in Naqab Shafiq. The pair showed remarkable composure, stitching together a match-winning last-wicket partnership that silenced Afghan hopes.
Pakistan eventually crossed the finish line with three balls to spare, completing one of the most thrilling chases of the tournament.
What This Win Means for Pakistan U19
This victory not only boosts Pakistan’s confidence but also strengthens their position in the U19 Tri-Nation Series. The match highlighted the team’s resilience, lower-order fighting spirit, and ability to handle pressure — qualities essential for success at the international youth level.
As the tournament progresses, Pakistan will look to build on this momentum, while Afghanistan can take positives from a competitive performance that pushed the match down to the wire.
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