KATHMANDU: As Nepal faces Pakistan in a crucial U-19 Cricket World Cup clash on Wednesday, the spotlight is on key players from both teams aiming to make an impact at the Buffalo Park Cricket Ground in East London, South Africa, at 1:45 PM.
After a setback against New Zealand in their opening match, where Nepal faced a 54-run defeat, the team is under pressure to secure a victory against Pakistan before concluding the group stage with a final match against Afghanistan on January 26.
Pakistan’s Key Players:
1. Saad Baig (c & wk):
The 17-year-old captain not only leads Pakistan but also bats at No.4.
Boasting three half-centuries in his last four innings, Baig thrives in crucial moments.
His all-around performance as a wicketkeeper and batsman is vital for Pakistan.
2. Mohammed Zeeshan (Seamer):
A prominent seamer who was a traveling reserve two years ago.
Expected to play a crucial role in Pakistan’s bowling attack.
3. Ubaid Shah:
The brother of Naseem Shah, Ubaid aims to carve his own niche in international cricket.
Known for his taller action and ability to deliver yorker lengths when needed.
4. Arafat Minhas:
Recognizable from the Asian Games, where he featured three times in Pakistan’s campaign.
Brings valuable experience to the team.
Pakistan Squad:
Saad Baig (c & wk), Ali Asfand (vc), Ali Raza, Ahmad Hassan, Amir Hassan, Arafat Minhas, Azan Awais, Haroon Arshad, Khubaib Khalil, Mohammed Zeeshan, Naveed Ahmed Khan, Shahzaib Khan, Shamyl Hussain, Muhammad Riazullah, Ubaid Shah.
Nepal’s Key Players:
1. Dev Khanal (c):
Recognized skipper with appearances for the Nepali senior team.
Carrying the responsibility to lead the team to victory.
2. Gulshan Jha:
Another player with experience in the Nepali senior team.
Expected to contribute significantly to the team’s performance.
3. Arjun Kumal:
Impressive performances in warm-up play and the ACC U19 Asia Cup.
A player to watch out for with his consistent batting performances.
4. Durgesh Gupta:
Left-arm seamer who has showcased talent in junior domestic cricket.
Expected to play a vital role in Nepal’s bowling attack.
Nepal Squad:
Dev Khanal (c), Arjun Kumal, Aakash Tripathi, Dipak Prasad Dumre, Durgesh Gupta, Gulshan Kumar Jha, Dipesh Prasad Kandel, Bishal Bikram KC, Subhash Bhandari, Deepak Bohara, Dipak Bohara, Uttam Rangu Thapa Macar, Bipin Rawal, Tilak Raj Bhandari, Akash Chand.
The 15th edition of the U-19 World Cup, hosted in South Africa, features 16 countries, and fans can anticipate an exciting showdown between Nepal and Pakistan.
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