Pakistan faced a formidable challenge against the UAE as their bowlers executed an excellent performance, limiting UAE to 193 in 47.5 overs. Rising star Ubaid Shah, recently drafted by Islamabad United in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), showcased his talent with figures of 9.5-1-44-4. Ali Asfand and Arafat Minhas contributed with two wickets each.
UAE’s skipper Aayan Afzal Khan led from the front, scoring 55 runs off 57 balls, supported by Aryansh Sharma and Ethan D’Souza with scores of 46 and 37, respectively. Pakistan struggled in their run-chase and were eventually bowled out for 183 in 49.3 overs. Despite Skipper Saad Baig’s commendable 50 runs, the efforts of Ali Asfand, Amir Hassan, and Mohammad Zeeshan lower down the order were not enough to secure victory.
Bangladesh Overcomes India, Advances to U19 Asia Cup Final
In the other semi-final clash at the ICC Academy Ground No 2 in Dubai, Bangladesh displayed resilience and determination to secure a four-wicket win over India. After restricting India to 188 in 42.4 overs, thanks to a standout performance by Maruf Mridha (10-1-41-4), Bangladesh faced an early challenge, finding themselves at 34 for three.
However, Ariful Islam and Ahrar Amin turned the tide with a partnership of 138 runs for the fourth wicket. Ariful’s impressive 94 off 90 balls and Amin’s patient 44 set Bangladesh on course for victory. Despite efforts from Naman Tiwari and Raj Limbani, who took three and two wickets, respectively, Bangladesh chased down the target with 7.1 overs to spare.
With these results, the stage is set for an electrifying U19 Asia Cup final between Bangladesh and the UAE at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, promising cricket enthusiasts a captivating showdown between the two talented teams.
