Usman, Farhan Hundreds Power Pakistan U19 to Crushing Win by 177 Runs Over England U19

ARUNDEL: A commanding century from Usman Khan and a brilliant hundred by captain Farhan Yousaf, followed by a four-wicket burst from Mohammad Sayyam, powered Pakistan U19 to a comprehensive 177-run victory over England U19 in the opening Youth ODI of the four-match series at Arundel Castle Cricket Club Ground on Wednesday.

After opting to bat first, Pakistan U19 overcame an early setback to post an imposing 332/9 in their allotted 50 overs. The foundation of the huge total was laid by Usman and Farhan, who combined for a remarkable 268-run stand for the third wicket.

Pakistan lost opener Aliyan Usman in the third over with the score on 12, but Abdul Qadir quickly shifted the momentum with an aggressive 26 off just 13 balls. His cameo ended on the final delivery of the fifth over when Charlie Taylor dismissed him, leaving Pakistan at 41.

Farhan then joined Usman at the crease and the pair completely dominated the England attack. The partnership continued for more than 40 overs, with both batters reaching impressive centuries before their marathon stand finally came to an end in the 47th over.

Farhan produced a composed 115 from 133 balls, striking 12 fours and one six, while Usman delivered the more aggressive performance, smashing 151 from 136 deliveries with 15 fours and four sixes.

Pakistan suffered a late flurry of wickets following the departures of their two centurions, losing five wickets in the final 16 balls. Nevertheless, they managed to add 20 runs during the late collapse to cross the 330-run mark.

England U19’s chase never gathered enough momentum as the hosts were dismissed for 155 in 35.1 overs. Isaac Mohammed provided the only significant resistance, scoring a patient 72 from 94 balls with six fours and a six.

Luke Hands contributed 28, while England captain Ralphie Albert made 14, but the rest of the batting lineup failed to make a meaningful impact against Pakistan’s disciplined bowling attack.

Sayyam was the standout bowler for Pakistan, claiming 4/39 from 9.1 economical overs. Rizwanullah, Niqab Shafiq and Ahmed Hussain supported him effectively with two wickets apiece.

The emphatic result gives Pakistan U19 a 1-0 advantage in the four-match series. The second Youth ODI will be played in Guildford on September 12.