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Rizwanullah’s Five-Fer Sinks Bangladesh as Pakistan U-19s Reach Asia Cup Final

Pakistan, having opted to bowl first, restricted Bangladesh to 138 all out in 31.4 overs. The decisive performance came from right-arm fast bowler Rizwanullah, who claimed five wickets for just 30 runs from his eight-over spell. His figures were the central pillar of Pakistan’s strategy, preventing Bangladesh from building momentum and keeping the score at a manageable level for the second innings. Left-arm pacer Mohammad Sayyam provided crucial support, taking two wickets for 29 runs, while Ali Raza, Hasnain Abbas Dar, and Ahmed Hussain each claimed one wicket to complete the dismissal.

Bangladesh’s innings was defined by a lack of partnership continuity outside of the top order. Al Muhi offered the most resistance, scoring 50 off 45 deliveries with four fours and two sixes. However, his dismissal left the middle order struggling to respond. Captain Farid Hasan managed 17 runs, while Rakibul Hossan contributed 26 from 39 balls and All Rafi added 20 from 22 deliveries, including two boundaries and a six. The lower order failed to provide any significant resistance; SK Jarif Siyam, Ahsan Al Mumin, and Sheikh Atiqur Rahman were each dismissed for a single run, while Robiul Hasan Anik and Rubay Islam Rizon were bowled out without scoring. The result was a total of 138, which proved more than enough for Pakistan to defend.

Photo by Nafi’s Eye on Pexels

Chasing 139, Pakistan demonstrated a ruthless efficiency that reflected their status as tournament leaders. The openers, Hayam Khan and Usman Khan, laid the foundation for an emphatic chase with a 123-run partnership that included no lost wickets. This early century partnership effectively neutralized Bangladesh’s bowling attack before the contest could truly begin. Hayam Khan struck a fluent 69 off 72 balls, hitting eight fours and a six, before falling to Robiul Hasan. His dismissal was the only setback in an otherwise effortless pursuit.

Usman Khan remained unbeaten on 64 from 54 deliveries, finishing the innings in emphatic fashion by striking a boundary and a six off consecutive deliveries. His knock featured seven fours and two sixes, showcasing a high strike rate that accelerated the chase. Abdul Qadir joined Usman after Hayam’s dismissal and contributed an unbeaten eight. Pakistan reached the target of 141 for the loss of one wicket in just 21.5 overs, securing a nine-wicket victory with significant overs remaining.

The victory extends Pakistan’s perfect start to the tournament. They have now won all four of their matches in the ACC Men’s U-19 Asia Cup 2026. Their campaign began with a nine-wicket victory over the United Arab Emirates, followed by a three-wicket win against India and a 101-run victory over Nepal to top Group A. Rizwanullah has been a consistent threat throughout the competition, taking two wickets against the UAE and three against India before his semi-final masterclass. His performance in Oman cements his role as the primary strike bowler for the squad.

Photo by Nafi’s Eye on Pexels

With this result, Pakistan is set to face arch-rivals India in the final on Saturday, 14 November. India secured their own place in the title decider by defeating Afghanistan in the second semi-final on Thursday. The upcoming final represents a significant competitive challenge, pitting the current champions against their historical rivals in a contest that will determine the regional U-19 hierarchy. For Pakistan, the focus shifts from the semi-final dominance to preparing for a high-stakes encounter where tactical discipline and individual brilliance will be tested under the pressure of a final.

As the players left the Al Amerat Cricket Ground, the scoreboard reflected the clarity of the result: a 138 all-out total for Bangladesh and a 141-1 finish for Pakistan. The stage is now set for Saturday, where the narrative of the tournament will converge on the rivalry between Pakistan and India, with the title and the prestige of the ACC Men’s U-19 Asia Cup at stake.

Andrew Scott

Andrew Scott covers sports news across major leagues and competitions, with particular attention to results, team developments, player performances, rankings, and transfers. He follows events closely and checks official information before reporting breaking developments. Andrew's writing combines quick updates with useful background, helping readers understand both what happened and what could come next.

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