Bangladesh Exit as India, Pakistan Set Up Final in Under-19 Asia Cup

Bangladesh’s youngsters failed to put up a fight in either department, producing disappointing batting followed by a dismal bowling performance. Pakistan thrashed the Junior Tigers to reach the final of the Under-19 Asia Cup, where they will face arch-rivals India.

Bangladesh crashed out of the tournament after suffering a heavy nine-wicket defeat to Pakistan in the semi-final of the Under-19 Asia Cup at the Al Amerat Cricket Ground in Oman on Thursday.

After winning the toss and opting to bat, Bangladesh were bowled out for just 138 in 31.4 overs, struggling against Pakistan’s pace attack. In reply, Pakistan cruised to victory, reaching 141 for one in 21.5 overs.

Bangladesh suffered an early batting collapse. Mohammad Sayyam dismissed opener SK Zarif Siam for one with the team score at four. He then removed Kawsar Ahmed, who scored nine. As a result, Bangladesh lost two wickets for 25 runs.

Opener Abdullah Al Muhi then tried to steady the innings, building a partnership with captain Farid Hasan, who scored 17. Muhi top-scored for Bangladesh with 50 off 45 balls, hitting four boundaries and two sixes.

However, after Farid’s dismissal, Ahsan Al Mumin also departed for one, putting Bangladesh under further pressure. Muhi fell after completing his half-century, leaving Bangladesh at 98 for five.

Al Rafi (20) and Rakibul Hossain (26) then attempted to repair the innings. However, Pakistan’s bowlers continued to dominate. Bangladesh lost their last five wickets for just 27 runs and failed to post a competitive total.

Pakistan right-arm pacer Rizwanullah dismantled Bangladesh’s batting line-up, claiming five wickets for 30 runs in eight overs. Mohammad Sayyam took two wickets, while Ali Raza, Hasnain Abbas Dar and Ahmed Hussain claimed one each.

In reply, the aggressive batting of openers Usman Khan and Hayam Khan put Bangladesh’s bowlers under pressure.

Hayam was dismissed by Rabiul Hasan Anik after scoring 69 off 72 balls, hitting eight fours and a six. However, his dismissal had little impact on the outcome.

Usman remained unbeaten on 64 off 54 balls, striking seven fours and two sixes. Abdul Qadir was not out on eight. Pakistan reached the target with nine wickets in hand and 28.1 overs to spare.

In the day’s second semi-final at the same venue, India booked their place in the final with an eight-wicket victory over Afghanistan.

Arch-rivals India and Pakistan will face each other in the title clash at the same ground next Saturday.