Hamza’s solid century powers Green-shirts to a much-needed win in Under-19 Asia Cup
Hamza Zahoor struck an unbeaten century to guide Pakistan Under-19s to a thrilling three-wicket victory over India and secure their place in the semi-finals of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) Under-19 Asia Cup on Sunday.
Chasing 209 at the Al Amerat Cricket Ground in Oman, Pakistan achieved the target with 11 balls to spare with Zahoor producing a match-winning 100 not out off 108 deliveries to steer his side home.
Pakistan’s second successive victory in Group A confirmed their qualification for the last four, giving the young side another significant boost in the tournament.
Zahoor anchored the chase after Pakistan endured an uncomfortable start, losing wickets at regular intervals. The wicket-keeper batsman struck ten boundaries and three sixes, displaying composure under pressure to ensure holders Pakistan make home safely.
Hasnain Abbas Dar provided valuable support with 38 off 67 balls in a crucial sixth-wicket partnership that revived Pakistan’s innings after they slipped to 61-5.
Manal Chauhan got 3-32 and Mohit Ulva captured 2-45.
India had earlier posted 208 all out in 46.3 overs after being asked to bat first, with Arjun Rajput leading the charge through an impressive 107 off 85 balls. His innings included 11 fours and five sixes.
Rajput held India’s innings together despite losing partners at the other end, but Pakistan’s bowlers kept striking to prevent the visitors from building a bigger total.
Ali Raza, Rizwanullah and Niqab Shafiq claimed three wickets apiece to restrict India to 208.
Rizwanullah was particularly effective, conceding just 24 runs in seven overs, while Ali Raza returned figures of 3-37 from his ten overs.
India’s Manal Chauhan also impressed with the ball, taking 3-32, but Zahoor’s resistance proved decisive.
Pakistan are yet to face Nepal in the group stage.