NZ U19 vs PAK U19: Green Shirts skittle New Zealand in Super six clash

HARARE: Pakistan U19 produced a dominant all-round performance to secure a commanding victory over New Zealand U19 in the 31st One Day International of the Super Six stage, comfortably chasing down a modest target of 110 with seven wickets in hand.

After winning the toss, Pakistan U19 opted to bowl first, a decision that paid immediate dividends. The New Zealand batters struggled against disciplined Pakistani bowling, never finding momentum in their innings.

Abdul Subhan and Ali Raza led the bowling attack with outstanding spells. Subhan claimed four wickets, while Ali Raza picked up three, dismantling the New Zealand lineup. Ali Raza removed key batters including Marco William Alpe (2), Snehith Reddy (6), and middle-order batter Brandon Nicholas Matzopoulos, who departed for a duck. Subhan further tightened the screws by dismissing Jacob James Cotter (2), Jaskaran Sandhu (0), and Mason Clarke.

Unable to recover from the early setbacks, New Zealand U19 were bowled out for just 110 runs in 28.3 overs.

In reply, Pakistan U19 chased the target with confidence and control. Opener Sameer Ahmed Minhas once again proved his class with a superb knock of 76 off 59 balls, laced with 10 fours and two sixes. Although fellow opener Hamza Zahoor managed only eight runs off 11 deliveries, his innings included two boundaries and helped maintain early momentum.

The middle-order pair of Usman Khan (15 off 24 balls) and skipper Farhan Yousaf (11 off 9 balls) calmly guided Pakistan to the brink of victory. The chase was completed with the help of extras conceded by New Zealand, sealing a comprehensive win for the Green Shirts.

The emphatic triumph further strengthened Pakistan U19’s position in the Super Six stage and highlighted their growing dominance in the tournament.