UAE stun Pakistan, reach ACC U-19 Asia Cup final

Gulf Today, Sports Reporter

The UAE created history after pulling off a sensational 11-run victory over Pakistan in the ACC U-19 Asia Cup in a nail-biting encounter at the ICC Academy in Dubai on Friday.

This win propels UAE into the finals against Bangladesh, schedule to be held on Sunday.

After winning the toss and opting to bat first, UAE put up a competitive total of 193 all out in their 50 overs. Their innings were bolstered by solid contributions throughout the line-up. Aryansh Sharma provided a steady start with a 46-run knock, while Aayan Afzal Khan’s explosive 55 off 57 balls, including seven fours, was the highlight.

The middle-order batsman Ethan D'Souza also chipped in with a crucial 37. Ubaid Shah, the standout bowler for Pakistan, claimed four wickets, but UAE’s batsmen managed to maintain a healthy run rate throughout their innings.

In response, Pakistan's chase was marked by a series of misfortunes. They lost Shamyl Hussain for a duck in the very first over, setting the tone for the rest of their innings. Saad Baig and Azan Awais tried to stabilize the innings with scores of 50 and 41, respectively, but UAE’s bowlers kept a tight leash on the run flow.

Ayman Ahamed’s two crucial wickets towards the end were instrumental in derailing Pakistan's chase. Despite Amir Hassan’s late surge with a 27-run effort, Pakistan fell short, ending their innings at 182 all out in 49.3 overs.

Looking forward to the finals, UAE will face Bangladesh in what promises to be an enthralling encounter.

Aayan was later adjudged player-of-the-match. The Emirates Cricket Board has announced that fans will be allowed free entry in the DIS spectator stands for Sunday’s final.

Both teams have shown exceptional skills and resilience throughout the tournament, and the final is set to be a fitting climax to the ACC U-19 Asia Cup.

As these young talents take the field, the stage is set for a showdown that will likely feature the future stars of international cricket.

Mubashshir Usmani, general secretary of Emirates Cricket Board, said: "We are delighted with the team’s sensational performance and congratulate all the players and the coaching staff on this historic achievement.

“The players and coaches have worked tirelessly to produce these results, the future of UAE cricket is incredibly bright and these are the players who will take the sport to the next level.

"On behalf of the Emirates Cricket Board, I request the fans to come in big numbers and support our youngsters who have made us proud with their outstanding performance. The final at the Dubai International Stadium on Sunday will have free entry for fans.”