The U19 Asia Cup 2024 got off to a thrilling start as Pakistan dominated arch-rivals India by 43 runs in their Group. An opener at Dubai, Shahzaib Khan century, along with the disciplined bowling of Pakistan’s pacers. Dismantled the Indian chase, leaving the defending champions with much to think about.
Shahzaib Khan’s Record-Breaking Innings
Shahzaib Khan was the man of the match, smashing a mesmerizing 159 off 147 balls with ten sixes. That broke multiple records, including the highest individual score in youth ODIs against India. He made a strong start with opening partner Usman Khan to add 160 runs for the opening wicket for Pakistan.
While India’s bowlers were not able to capitalize on early wickets. Shahzaib capitalized on their loose deliveries and punished them with aggressive yet calculated stroke play. Though Pakistan appeared to be crossing 300, regular wickets all around Shahzaib’s innings limited them to 281 for 7.
Shahzaib Khan: Bowling Pakistan Dominates India Chase
India’s top order crumbled against Pakistan’s disciplined pace attack while chasing a challenging 282. Ali Raza spearheaded the bowling unit, taking crucial wickets at regular intervals. India lost Vaibhav Suryavanshi early, and the middle-order trio of Ayush Mhatre, C Andre Siddarth, and skipper Mohamed Amaan failed to convert starts into substantial scores.
The batting, however, could make up little ground. India’s Nikhil Kumar provided some resistance with a fighting 67 while forming crucial partnerships with Kiran Chormale (20) and Harvansh Pangalia (26). Pakistan pacers maintained relentless pressure, making sure that the required run rate continued to climb. Late fireworks from Mohamed Enaan and Yudhajit Guha provided a glimpse of hope, but a run-out in the 48th over sealed India’s fate at 238 all out.
Shahzaib Khan: Key Turning Points of the Match
- Shahzaib and Usman’s Opening Stand: Their 160-run stand gave a strong opening to Pakistan by making India’s bowlers anxious for a breakthrough.
- Ali Raza’s Breakthrough Spells: Ali Raza’s strict lines and critical dismissals kept India on the toes while they were chasing their target.
- India’s Middle-Order Collapse: Due to failure to build the partnership after quick wickets, India remained vulnerable.
Points Table Update
The victory handed Pakistan two crucial points, placing them second in Group A, while India’s loss relegated them to fourth. With matches against UAE and Japan remaining, India must regroup quickly to keep their semifinal hopes alive.
FAQs
1. What records did Shahzaib Khan break in this match?
Shahzaib Khan’s 159 is the highest individual score in youth ODIs against India. He also hit the most sixes (10) in an innings at this level.
2. How did Pakistan restrict India’s chase?
Pakistan’s pacers, led by Ali Raza, maintained tight bowling lines and picked up wickets at crucial junctures. India’s middle-order collapse also contributed to their inability to chase the target.
3. What was India’s biggest weakness in this game?
India’s top and middle order could not establish any sort of partnerships that put pressure on the lower order, who were chasing a steeper target.
4. How important was Nikhil Kumar’s knock for India?
Nikhil Kumar’s 67 was a lone bright spot for India. His partnerships with the lower order kept India in the hunt briefly but were not enough to stop the defeat.
5. What are the chances for India to advance in the tournament?
India now has a must-win scenario in the two remaining group stage games against UAE and Japan for a semifinal spot.
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