News by “Sana Ullah”
In a nail-biting encounter in Benoni, South Africa, Pakistan secured a spot in the ICC U19 World Cup semifinals by defeating Bangladesh by a mere five runs in their second Super Six game. The Boys in Green remain undefeated in the tournament with five wins, having overcome Afghanistan, Nepal, New Zealand, Ireland, and now Bangladesh.
Facing a low target of 155, Saad Baig and his team displayed resilience, with 17-year-old Ubaid Shah leading the charge by claiming a fifer, while Ali Raza contributed with three crucial wickets. Mohammad Zeeshan took the final wicket, sealing the sensational victory over the Tigers.
Bangladesh, opting to bowl after winning the toss, faced stiff resistance from Shahzaib Khan and Shamyl Hussain in the initial overs. However, a stellar bowling performance by Rohanat Doullah Borson and Sheikh Jibon saw the top and middle order of the Pakistani side dismantled. Despite reaching 50/1 in the first Powerplay, Pakistan struggled, losing their sixth wicket at 89 and failing to complete their allotted overs.
Ubaid Shah’s impressive comeback with four wickets, including key dismissals, turned the tide in Pakistan’s favor. Ali Raza’s timely contributions further solidified their control over the match.
As Bangladesh sought to rebuild, Shihab and debutant Mahfuzur Rahman showed resilience, but Ubaid Shah and Ali Raza’s interventions kept Pakistan in command. Mohammad Zeeshan’s crucial wicket in the 37th over secured the win for Pakistan, setting up a semifinal clash against Australia.
In the other semifinal, India will face off
