Pakistan booked their place in the ACC Men’s U19 Asia Cup 2025 semi-finals after defeating the United Arab Emirates by 70 runs at the ICC Academy on Tuesday. Chasing a challenging target of 242, the UAE were bowled out for 171 in 37.5 overs despite a strong performance from Ayaan Misbah, who top-scored with 77 off 74 balls, including 12 boundaries.
Misbah’s dismissal in the 24th over triggered a middle-order collapse, as Prithvi Madhu (27) and Muhammad Rayan (12) could not sustain the chase, allowing Pakistan’s bowlers to run through the tail.
Leading Pakistan’s attack was Subhan, who picked up four wickets for just 31 runs in 7.5 overs. Mohammad Sayyam, Momim Qamar, and Ahmed Hussain contributed with one wicket each, ensuring a dominant performance from the Green Shirts. Pakistan captain Farhan Yousaf’s decision to bat first after winning the toss proved crucial, as the team posted 241/9 in 50 overs.
Pakistan got off to a steady start with opener Sameer Minhas and Usman Khan putting together 40 runs in nine overs before UAE bowler Naseem Khan struck, dismissing Usman and top-order batter Ali Hassan Baloch in quick succession.
Ahmed then anchored the innings with vital partnerships, including a 52-run stand with Hamza Zahoor, before being dismissed for 65 off 91 balls. Zahoor finished with 42 off 51 deliveries, providing a solid platform for Pakistan’s total.
For the UAE, Yug Sharma was the standout bowler, claiming three wickets for 52 runs in 10 overs, while Naseem took two. Other UAE bowlers, including Muhammad Bazil Asim, Uddish Suri, and Zainullah Rehmani, picked up one wicket each.
With Pakistan’s win, all four semi-finalists of the U19 Asia Cup 2025 have now been confirmed: India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Pakistan. The semi-final matchups will be finalized after Wednesday’s group-stage game between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh.
