MUSCAT: Pakistan’s junior cricket team secured a thrilling seven-wicket victory over arch-rivals India in a high-voltage Under-19 Asia Cup encounter, with wicketkeeper-batter Hamza Zahoor emerging as the hero of the match after scoring a magnificent unbeaten century under pressure.
Batting first in the match played in Oman, India were bowled out for 208 in 46.3 overs. Arjun Rajput led the Indian batting effort with an impressive 107-run knock.
Pakistan’s bowling attack delivered an outstanding performance, with Ali Raza, Rizwanullah and Naqab Shafiq claiming three wickets apiece to restrict India to a modest total.
Hamza Zahoor Turns the Game Around
Chasing a target of 209, Pakistan got off to a disastrous start and found themselves in deep trouble at 61 for five, with half the batting side back in the pavilion.
However, wicketkeeper-batter Hamza Zahoor rose to the occasion with a remarkable display of composure and attacking batting.
He smashed an unbeaten 100 off 108 deliveries, including 10 boundaries and three sixes, to keep Pakistan’s hopes alive and steer the team towards victory.
Hamza received valuable support from Hasnain Abbas Dar, who contributed 38 runs. The pair stitched together a crucial 107-run partnership that completely turned the momentum in Pakistan’s favour.
Pakistan eventually chased down the 209-run target in 48.1 overs, finishing at 209 for seven to register a memorable seven-wicket victory over their traditional rivals.
Hamza’s match-winning century proved decisive in securing a memorable triumph for Pakistan in the Under-19 Asia Cup.
