Abdul Subhan stars against Bangladesh as Pakistan set up U-19 Asia Cup title clash against India
Pacer Abdul Subhan spearheaded a dominant all-round display as Pakistan Under-19s cruised into the final of the ACC Men’s U-19 Asia Cup with an emphatic eight-wicket victory over defending champions Bangladesh at The Sevens Stadium in Dubai on Friday.
The rain-hit second semi-final was reduced to 27 overs a side, and Pakistan skipper Farhan Yousaf’s decision to field first proved decisive as Bangladesh were bundled out for 121 in 26.3 overs.
Subhan led the charge with a probing spell of 4-20, accounting for key batsmen Azizul Hakim and Kalam Siddiki to leave Bangladesh reeling.
Huzaifa Ahsan offered excellent support with figures of 2-10, while Ali Raza and Mohammad Sayyam chipped in with a wicket apiece.
Samiun Basir was the lone resistance for Bangladesh with a 33-run knock before being run out at the close of the innings.
Pakistan’s chase was briefly checked when wicket-keeper-batter Hamza Zahoor fell for a duck, but opener Sameer Minhas ensured there were no further alarms.
The right-hander anchored the innings with a composed unbeaten 69 off 57 balls, striking six fours and two sixes. H
e added 85 runs for the second wicket with Usman Khan, who scored a brisk 27 before falling lbw to Samiun.
Ahmed Hussain stayed with Minhas till the end as Pakistan reached 122 for two in just 16.3 overs, sealing victory with 63 balls to spare.
Subhan was named player of the match for his incisive bowling performance.
Pakistan will now meet India in Sunday’s final at the ICC Academy Ground, setting up a high-profile clash between the traditional rivals.
Brief scores:
BANGLADESH U-19 121 in 26.3 overs (Samiun Basir 33; Abdul Subhan 4-20, Huzaifa Ahsan 2-10); PAKISTAN U-19 122-2 in 16.3 overs (Sameer Minhas 69 not out, Usman Khan 27)
