Pakistan beat UAE by nine wickets in U19 Asia Cup 2026

Defending champions Pakistan began their ACC Men's U19 Asia Cup 2026 campaign in emphatic fashion, registering a nine-wicket victory over the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in their Group A encounter at Al Amerat Cricket Ground on Friday.

A magnificent unbeaten century from opener Usman Khan, complemented by Jahangir Bilal's half-century, helped Pakistan chase down a target of 225 with 12.3 overs to spare.

How did Pakistan dominate the run chase?

Pakistan's opening pair laid the foundation for a comfortable victory, adding 153 runs without losing a wicket to put the UAE bowlers under sustained pressure.

Jahangir provided valuable support with a composed 60 off 87 deliveries, striking six fours before his dismissal brought the opening partnership to an end.

Usman, however, continued to dictate proceedings and completed his fourth century in Youth ODI cricket. The opener remained unbeaten on 139 from 120 balls, an innings featuring 21 fours and a six.

Abdul Qadir joined him towards the end, contributing an unbeaten 20 off 19 deliveries, including a boundary and a six, as Pakistan reached 225-1 in 37.3 overs.

Who helped UAE post a competitive total?

Earlier, Pakistan's bowlers restricted UAE to 224 in their allotted 50 overs after the hosts struggled to build substantial partnerships.

Noorullah Ayobi provided the biggest contribution towards the end of the innings, scoring 70 from 55 deliveries with three fours and six sixes.

Yayin Kiran Rai anchored the batting effort with 47 off 74 balls, while Zainullah Rehmani added 28 from 44 deliveries. Ahmed Khudadad chipped in with 16.

Who led Pakistan's bowling attack?

Mohammad Sayyam delivered an impressive performance, claiming three wickets for 37 runs in his 10 overs.

Hasnain Abbas Dar, Rizwanullah and Ali Raza picked up two wickets each, while Niqab Shafiq claimed one.