ACC U19 Asia Cup: Shahzaib Khan's Stellar 159 Leads Pakistan to 43-Run Victory Over India
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Dubai, Nov 30 (NationPress) A sensational 159-run innings from Shahzaib Khan propelled Pakistan U19 to a 43-run victory over India U19 in a Group-A match of the ACC Men’s U19 Asia Cup held at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Saturday.
Shahzaib’s impressive 147-ball performance, featuring five boundaries and 10 massive sixes, anchored Pakistan’s innings to a challenging score of 281 for seven. The Mansehra-born opener formed a crucial 160-run partnership with Usman Khan, who played a steady innings of 60 runs off 94 balls. This collaboration set a strong foundation for Pakistan’s innings, with Shahzaib adding a significant 71 runs for the third wicket alongside Muhammad Riazullah (27).
India’s bowling was spearheaded by Samarth Nagaraj, who took 3 wickets for 45 runs, supported by Ayush Mhatre, who delivered an economical 2 for 30.
In response, India’s chase faltered early, struggling to 81 for four within the first 15 overs. Ali Raza was the standout bowler for Pakistan, dismantling the top order with figures of 3 for 36 across nine overs. The highly touted Vaibhav Suryavanshi, who was acquired by Rajasthan Royals for Rs 1.10 crore at the 2025 IPL mega auctions at just 13 years of age, was dismissed for a mere one run. A resilient 67 off 77 balls from Nikhil Kumar provided some resistance, with contributions from Harvansh Pangalia (26) and Kiran Chormale (20). Nevertheless, the target proved too great, as India was bowled out for 238 in 47.1 overs. Abdul Subhan and Faham-ul-Haq both took two wickets each.
Shahzaib’s extraordinary innings earned him the Player of the Match accolade. Pakistan's next challenge is against the UAE on December 2, as they aim for a spot in the semi-finals. India will face Japan on the same day, hoping to bounce back from this setback.
Brief Scores:
Pakistan U19 281-7, 50 overs (Shahzaib Khan 159, Usman Khan 60; Samarth Nagaraj 3-45) defeated India U19 238/10, 47.1 overs (Nikhil Kumar 67; Ali Raza 3-36) by 43 runs.
