U19 World Cup: Pakistan dominate New Zealand as Subhan, Raza and Minhas shine

Pakistan’s bowlers produced stunning performances in the U19 World Cup match against New Zealand U19, which gave a ruthless show, and the visitors were left reeling. Ali Raza and Abdul Subhan took seven wickets and kept the opposition under constant pressure. New Zealand were reduced to 67 for 7 in just 13.3 overs and struggled to cope with the pace.

Marco William Alpe was removed early when he was trapped lbw by Raza in the third over. Tom Jones and Hugo Bogue added 48 runs, but the partnership was broken by Mohammad Sayyam, who dismissed Jones. The collapse resumed quickly as Subhan removed Bogue, triggering a dramatic slide.

Brandon Matzopoulos and Jaskaran Sandhu were dismissed for ducks, leaving the innings in shambles. Some contributions from the lower order added a little respectability, but New Zealand were eventually bowled out for 110 in 28.3 overs.

Minhas leads Pakistan’s comfortable chase

Chasing a modest target, Pakistan lost Hamza Zahoor early, but the setback had little impact. Opener Sameer Minhas continued his excellent tournament form, taking control of the chase with confidence and clean strokeplay. He controlled a 67-run partnership with Usman Khan.

Minhas struck ten fours and two sixes in a fluent innings, registering 76 not out, his second consecutive unbeaten fifty. Farhan Yousaf provided calm support late in the innings, putting Pakistan firmly in control. Pakistan finished the match on 112-2, winning with 197 balls to spare.

The convincing win in the Pakistan U19 vs New Zealand U19 fixture significantly strengthened Pakistan's position in the Super Sixes and boosted their net run rate in the U19 World Cup. Attention now shifts to their upcoming clash against India, a match that could prove decisive in Group 2.