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HARARE: Pakistan Under-19 cricket team delivered a commanding performance to clinch the Zimbabwe Under-19 OD Tri-Series title, thrashing hosts Zimbabwe Under-19 by nine wickets with a staggering 202 balls to spare in the final at Old Hararians Sports Club.
Opting to bat first after winning the toss, Zimbabwe’s innings crumbled spectacularly against a disciplined Pakistani bowling attack. They were bundled out for a paltry 158 in just 44.4 overs, with Kian Blignaut’s resilient 60 off 102 balls (including eight fours) being the only notable resistance. The hosts suffered a disastrous start, losing two wickets in the opening over, including a first-ball duck for Blignaut early on. Pakistan’s bowlers shared the spoils effectively, exploiting the conditions to maintain relentless pressure.
The chase proved to be a one-sided affair, thanks to opener Sameer Minhas’ explosive knock. The in-form batsman smashed a breathtaking 114 off just 51 deliveries, laced with 17 fours and five sixes, dominating the Zimbabwean bowlers from the outset. His aggressive intent set the tone, racing Pakistan to a flying start. Minhas fell in the 14.2 over, caught off Leeroy Chiwaula, with the score at 145/1, but by then, the damage was done.
Mohammad Shayan (38* off 42) and Usman Khan (2*) calmly guided Pakistan home in the 16.2 over, finishing at 160/1. The victory margin underscored Pakistan’s superiority throughout the tournament, providing ideal momentum ahead of the upcoming ICC Under-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup, co-hosted by Zimbabwe and Namibia starting January 15.
This triumph marks another feather in the cap for the young Pakistan side, fresh off their U19 Asia Cup glory where Minhas played a starring role. The 18-year-old has been in sublime touch, continuing his rich vein of form into this tri-series. His century in the final was a masterclass in power-hitting, dismantling the Zimbabwe attack and entertaining the sparse crowd at Harare.
For Zimbabwe, the final exposed batting frailties, highlighted by Shelton Mazvitorera’s unfortunate record-breaking fifth duck in Youth ODIs for his country, surpassing Peter Moor’s previous mark of four. Despite home advantage, the hosts struggled to build partnerships, with only Blignaut showing composure amid regular collapses.
Pakistan captain Farhan Yousaf praised his team’s all-round display post-match: “This win gives us great confidence going into the World Cup. Sameer’s innings was special, and our bowlers set it up perfectly.” Zimbabwe skipper Nathaniel Hlabangana acknowledged the gap, stating, “Pakistan were the better side today. We’ll learn from this and prepare for the global event.
“The tri-series, also featuring Afghanistan (eliminated in the league stage), served as crucial preparation in similar conditions. Pakistan topped the points table undefeated in completed matches, while Zimbabwe finished runners-up.
With the trophy in hand, Pakistan U19 head to the World Cup brimming with confidence, eyeing a strong campaign. Minhas, in particular, emerges as a player to watch on the big stage.
