Rizwanullah takes five wickets as Pakistan thrash Bangladesh by nine wickets; India beat Afghanistan by eight wickets.
By Shakeel Ur Rehman
MUSCAT: Pakistan and India booked their places in the final of the ACC Men’s Under-19 Asia Cup 2026 after registering convincing victories in their respective semi-finals in Oman on Thursday.
Pakistan Under-19 stormed into the final with a comprehensive nine-wicket victory over Bangladesh in the first semi-final, while India defeated Afghanistan by eight wickets in the second semi-final to set up an exciting Pakistan-India final on November 14.
Rizwanullah spearheaded Pakistan’s bowling attack with an impressive five-wicket haul, conceding just 30 runs. Mohammad Sayyam claimed two wickets, while Hasnain Abbas Dar, Ali Raza and Ahmed Hussain took one wicket apiece as Bangladesh were bowled out for 138.
Pakistan completed the chase in just 21.5 overs, reaching 141 for one with 169 balls remaining.
Hayam Khan played an impressive innings of 66 runs, while Usman Khan remained unbeaten on 64 off 54 balls to guide Pakistan to a convincing victory and secure their place in the final.
The victory keeps Pakistan’s title defence firmly on track as they prepare for the tournament’s final.
In the second semi-final, India produced an equally impressive performance to overcome Afghanistan by eight wickets.
Batting first, Afghanistan scored 227 for eight in their allotted 50 overs. Noman Salarzai and Shah Faisal Rahimi scored 51 runs each to help their side post a competitive total.
India’s Ishan Sood claimed three wickets for 43 runs, while Aryan Savsani picked up two wickets.
In reply, India reached the target in 36.5 overs, scoring 230 for two to register a comfortable eight-wicket victory with 79 balls remaining.
Lakshya Raichandani led the successful chase with an outstanding 93 off 90 balls, while VK Vineeth remained unbeaten on 57 to guide India into the final.
The victory sets up a highly anticipated Pakistan-India clash in the final of the ACC Men’s Under-19 Asia Cup 2026, scheduled to be played on November 14 in Oman.
