BENONI: Pakistan clinched a spot in the semifinals of the ICC Under-19 World Cup 2024 with a thrilling five-run victory over Bangladesh in the Super Six stage at Benoni’s Willowmoore Park. Pacer Ubaid Shah’s outstanding five-wicket haul played a pivotal role in sealing the semifinal spot for Pakistan.
Facing a target of 156 runs, Bangladesh needed to chase it down within 38.1 overs to maintain a superior net run rate over Pakistan. However, their efforts fell short as Pakistan’s bowlers put up a remarkable performance.
Earlier, Bangladesh dismissed Pakistan for 155 in 40.4 overs, with Rohanat Doullah Borson and Sheikh Paevez Jibon taking four wickets each.
Pakistan Batting Against Bangladesh
Arafat Minhas emerged as the top scorer for Pakistan with 34 runs off 40 balls, while Shahzaib Khan contributed 26 off 67 deliveries. In response, Pakistan’s pacers Ubaid Shah and Ali Raza showcased their bowling prowess, claiming eight wickets between them to limit Bangladesh to 150 runs in 35.5 overs.
Ubaid Shah, the brother of star pacer Naseem Shah, stood out with his exceptional figures of 5-44, battling through pain and overcoming dropped catches to secure a crucial five-wicket haul. Despite Borson and Jibon’s efforts with the ball, Pakistan emerged victorious, setting up a semifinal clash with Australia at the same venue.
Pakistan now joins South Africa, India, and Australia in the semifinals, with South Africa facing India on February 6, and Pakistan taking on Australia on the following day.
