Pakistan Defeat Nepal in ACC Men’s Under-19 Asia Cup

Pakistan wrapped up their Group A matches in style during the ACC Men’s Under-19 Asia Cup by securing a commanding 101-run triumph over Nepal at the Al Amerat Cricket Ground in Oman on Tuesday. Having already guaranteed their place in the tournament semi-finals, the defending champions successfully defended their total to finish the group stage without a single defeat.

Batting first after winning the toss, the reigning titleholders set a target of 275-7 from their allotted 50 overs. The innings experienced a difficult beginning after openers Usman Khan and Jahangir Bilal were dismissed following a 45-run stand, and Abdul Qadir fell cheaply to leave the team struggling at 57-2. However, captain Farhan Yousaf and Ahmed Hussain rescued the innings through a vital 135-run partnership. Farhan contributed 74 runs from 95 balls, featuring six fours and three sixes, while Ahmed played a standout knock of 89 runs off 73 deliveries with seven fours and two and sixes. A late contribution of 25 runs from Hasnain Abbas Dar lifted the total to 275-7. Bipin Sharma led the bowling attack for Nepal with three wickets.

In response, Nepal encountered difficulties building meaningful partnerships while chasing 276. Rohit Chand recorded 37 runs from 54 balls, and opener Niraj Kumar Yadav added 29 runs, but the side fell behind the required run rate. Abhay Yadav attempted a late recovery by hitting 23 runs from 16 deliveries, yet the target remained far beyond reach as Nepal were dismissed for 174 in 43.4 overs. Ahmed completed an impressive all-around performance by taking four wickets for 35 runs, while Mohammad Sayyam and Mohammad Huzaifa each claimed two dismissals.

Pakistan extended their unbeaten run with a massive 101-run victory over Nepal.

Pakistan Nepal Under-19 Asia Cup Semi-Final Lineup

Following the conclusion of the group matches, the tournament schedule for the next round is set. In the upcoming semi-finals on Thursday, Pakistan are scheduled to face Bangladesh, while India will compete against Afghanistan.

Why it matters

The outcome finalizes the group standings and establishes the matchups for the knockout stage of the continental tournament. With Pakistan advancing as group winners and India securing qualification after defeating the United Arab Emirates, regional cricket fans look forward to the upcoming semi-final fixtures.