U19 Asia Cup 2021: Pakistan books spot in semi final

U19 Pakistan team has booked a spot in the semifinal of the U19 Asia Cup 2021 event after defeating the host UAE by 21 runs.

The first semi-final 1, will be played on December 30, at ICC Academy 1 while the second semi-final will be played on December 30, at Sharjah Cricket Stadium.

Pakistan U19 team registered their third win in a row,  confirming their semi-final spot in the tournament on Monday.

The day saw an all-around performance from captain Qasim Akram, who steered his team towards victory.

After opting to bat first,  right-handed Qasim scores half-century, followed by a 21-ball unbeaten 34 by Ahmed Khan helped Pakistan to post 219 for eight in 50 overs.

Qasim top-scored with 50 off 67, hitting five fours. Haseebullah scored a 48-ball 39, which included two fours.

Ahmed coming to bat at number-eight hit two fours and one six.

For UAE, Aayan Afzal Khan picked three wickets for 44, while Nilansh Keswani bagged two wickets for 32.

During the second innings, Qasim with his right-arm off-spin bagged three wickets for 52. Maaz Sadaqat, Mehran Mumtaz, and Mohammad Zeeshan grabbed two wickets each.

Brief Scores:

Pakistan Under-19 219-8, 50 overs (Qasim Akram 50, Haseebullah 39, Ahmed Khan 34 not out; Aayan Afzal Khan 3-44, Nilansh Keswani 2-33).

UAE Under-19 198-9, 50 overs (Aayan Afzal Khan 38, Kai Smith 38, Alishan Sharafu 35; Qasim Akram 3-52, Maaz Sadaqat 2-21, Mohammad Zeeshan 2-34, Mehran Mumtaz 2-35).