KATHMANDU: In a nail-biting encounter at the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2024, Pakistan secured a place in the semi-finals by defeating Bangladesh by a slender margin of five runs.
Bangladesh won the toss and opted to field, a decision that set the stage for a gripping match in Benoni.
Batting first, Pakistan faced a challenging situation as they were bowled out for 155 runs.
Despite a relatively stable start, Bangladesh’s bowlers, led by Rohanat Doullah Borson and Sheikh Jibon, dismantled the Pakistani top and middle-order.
Both Borson and Jibon finished with remarkable figures of 4/24 each.
Ubaid Shah emerged as a crucial player for Pakistan, staging a comeback with three quick wickets, including a brilliant catch by Haroon Arshad off Ahrar Amin’s edge.
The Pakistani bowlers kept the pressure on, with Ali Raza contributing to the team’s success.
As Bangladesh chased the target, they faced early setbacks, losing wickets at regular intervals.
Despite a resilient partnership between Shihab and Mahfuzur Rahman, Ubaid Shah struck again, dismissing Shihab and tipping the scales in Pakistan’s favor.
A tense moment occurred when Bangladesh required only six runs for victory with one wicket remaining.
However, Mohammad Zeeshan’s crucial wicket of Maruf Mridha secured the win for Pakistan, leaving Bangladesh agonizingly close to the target.
The thrilling contest showcased outstanding performances from both teams, with Pakistan ultimately emerging victorious and advancing to the semi-finals of the U19 World Cup.
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