Pakistan triumphed over Afghanistan by a commanding 181 runs in their opening match of the 2024 ICC U19 World Cup in East London (South Africa). Choosing to bat first, Pakistan scored a solid 284 for nine wickets. Shahzaib Khan stood out as the top performer, amassing an impressive 106 runs. His determined innings spanned 126 balls, featuring 10 boundaries and three sixes, with a notable strike rate of 84.12.
The team's captain, Saad Baig, also made a significant contribution, scoring a brisk 55 runs. His innings was marked by a rapid strike rate of 105.76, including 3 boundaries and 4 sixes.
Riaz Ullah played a crucial role with his 46 runs, and Ubaid Shah added a quick 22 runs to the total.
From Afghanistan's bowling lineup, Khalil Ahmed led the attack, securing four wickets, while Bashir Ahmed took two wickets.
During the second innings, Pakistan maintained a consistent pressure on their opponents. Amir Hassan contributed with a solid bowling performance of 4.2 overs, yielding 24 runs and securing one wicket, maintaining an economy rate of 5.53.
Ubaid Shah played a significant role in the bowling attack, bowling 7 overs and capturing 4 wickets for just 26 runs. His impressive economy rate of 3.71 was instrumental in applying pressure on the opposition.
Mohammad Zeeshan, in his 5.1 overs, claimed 3 wickets and conceded only 17 runs, achieving an economy rate of 3.40.
Ahmed Hussain also bowled effectively, completing 4 overs with a cost of only 16 runs and taking one wicket, keeping his economy rate at a steady 4.00.
Pakistan will next face Nepal on January 24 in East London and then lock horns with New Zealand on January 27 at the same venue.
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