The Young Tigers of Bangladesh have reached the final of the Under-19 Asia Cup for the second time, defeating Pakistan by 7 wickets in the semifinals. With this victory, Bangladesh is on the verge of winning the U-19 Asia Cup for the second consecutive time.
At the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Bangladesh won the toss and sent Pakistan to bat. However, the Pakistani team struggled against the pace attack of Iqbal Hossain and Maruf Mridha, getting bowled out for just 116 runs in 37 overs.
Chasing a target of 117, Bangladesh overcame an early wobble at 28/2 to secure the win, thanks to a responsible fifty from skipper Azizul Hakim Tamim, who remained unbeaten on 61, guiding his team to victory.
Key Match Highlights:
Pakistan’s Batting Collapse:
Fast bowler Maruf Mridha dismissed Pakistan opener Usman Khan for 0 in the second over. He then removed Shahzaib Khan, also for 0, in his next over. Captain Saad Baig and Mohammad Riazullah tried to rebuild but couldn’t withstand the relentless bowling of Iqbal Hossain, who picked 4 wickets for 24 runs.
Pakistan’s top scorer was Farhan Yusuf with 32 runs, as the team folded for 116 runs.
Bangladesh’s Chase:
Openers Jawad Abrar and Kamal Siddiqui failed to build momentum, with Kamal getting out for a duck. Despite losing two quick wickets, captain Tamim steadied the innings with Shihab James. Shihab scored 28 before being dismissed, but Tamim ensured victory with a composed 61* off 7 fours and 3 sixes.
In the other semifinal, India defeated Sri Lanka by 7 wickets to set up a final clash against Bangladesh. The final will take place on December 8 at 11:00 AM Bangladesh time, promising an exciting showdown between these two teams.
