Summary Usman led the run chase with an outstanding 139 not out from 120 deliveries, smashing 21 fours and a six
MUSCAT (Web Desk) - Defending champions Pakistan began their ACC Men's U19 Asia Cup 2026 campaign in impressive fashion, securing a comprehensive nine-wicket victory over the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in their Group A opening match at the Al Amerat Cricket Ground (Ministry Turf 2) on Friday.
Chasing a target of 225, Pakistan reached 228-1 in just 37.3 overs, thanks to a magnificent unbeaten century from opener Usman Khan and a crucial half-century by Jahangir Bilal.
Usman led the run chase with an outstanding 139 not out from 120 deliveries, smashing 21 fours and a six.
The innings marked his fourth century in Youth One-Day International cricket. Jahangir provided excellent support, scoring 60 off 87 balls, including six boundaries.
The opening pair dominated the UAE bowling attack, building a formidable 153-run partnership before Jahangir departed.
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Usman continued his remarkable innings, while Abdul Qadir remained unbeaten on 20 from 19 balls, striking a four and a six to complete the comfortable victory.
Earlier, UAE struggled to maintain momentum after opting to bat first and were dismissed for 224 in their allotted 50 overs.
Noorullah Ayobi provided the backbone of the innings with an impressive 70 off 55 balls, including three fours and six sixes.
Yayin Kiran Rai contributed 47 from 74 deliveries, while Zainullah Rehmani scored 28 off 44 balls. Ahmed Khudadad added 16.
For Pakistan, Mohammad Sayyam led the bowling effort with three wickets for 37 runs in 10 overs.
Hasnain Abbas Dar, Rizwanullah and Ali Raza picked up two wickets each, while Niqab Shafiq claimed one.
The convincing result gives Pakistan a winning start to their title defence and puts them in a positive position in Group A.
