Pakistan Storm Into U19 Asia Cup 2026 Final With Dominant Win Over Bangladesh
Pakistan produced a commanding all-round performance to defeat Bangladesh by nine wickets in the first semi-final of the U19 Asia Cup 2026 on Thursday, booking their place in the tournament final and keeping their title defence firmly on track.
Rizwanullah led the bowling charge with a brilliant five-wicket haul before openers Hayam Khan and Usman Khan starred with the bat, guiding Pakistan to their target of 139 in just 21.5 overs.
Chasing a modest total at Al Amerat Cricket Ground (Ministry Turf 2), Pakistan got off to a flying start as Hayam and Usman stitched together a century opening stand. Hayam struck an impressive 69 off 72 deliveries, featuring eight boundaries and a six, before departing.
Usman, meanwhile, remained unbeaten on 64 from 54 balls, decorating his innings with seven fours and two sixes. Abdul Qadir scored an unbeaten eight as Pakistan completed the chase with nine wickets in hand.
Earlier, Pakistan’s bowling attack restricted Bangladesh to 138 in 31.4 overs despite a fighting effort from opener Abdullah Al Muhi, who top-scored with 50 off 45 balls, including four fours and two sixes.
Rakibul Hossan provided some support with 26 off 39 deliveries, while All Rafi added 20 from 22 balls. Bangladesh captain Farid Hasan managed 17, but the rest of the batting lineup struggled to cope with Pakistan’s disciplined bowling.
Rizwanullah was the standout performer, dismantling the Bangladesh batting order with exceptional figures of 5/30 in eight overs. Mohammad Sayyam also made an impact with a wicket, while Ali Raza, Hasnain Abbas Dar and Ahmed Hussain claimed one wicket each.
With a convincing nine-wicket victory, the defending champions have secured their place in the U19 Asia Cup 2026 final and are now one step away from retaining their crown.
