Muscat:Bangladesh's Under-19 cricket team faced a crushing defeat against Pakistan in the semifinal of the Under-19 Asia Cup at the Al Amerat Cricket Ground in Oman, ending their campaign. The match saw Pakistan secure a nine-wicket victory, chasing down Bangladesh’s target effortlessly.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Bangladesh, after electing to bat first, was all out for 138 runs in 31.4 overs. Pakistan’s pace attack dismantled Bangladesh's batting line-up, with Rizwanullah leading the charge by taking five wickets for 30 runs in eight overs.
Bangladesh's innings began poorly, losing opener SK Zarif Siyam for just 1 run, followed by the dismissal of Kawsar Ahmed for nine, leaving the team struggling at 25-2. Abdullah Al Muhi provided some resistance by scoring 50 runs off 45 balls, which included four fours and two sixes. However, the loss of crucial wickets, including that of captain Farid Hasan and Ahsan Al Mumin for 1, hindered Bangladesh's progress. Despite efforts from Al Rafi and Rakibul Hossain, who scored 20 and 26 respectively, the team was bowled out with a subpar score.
In response, Pakistan’s openers Usman Khan and Hayam Khan set the pace with aggressive batting. Hayam scored 69 runs off 72 balls before being dismissed, but his opening partner Usman Khan remained unbeaten on 64 runs, ensuring an easy chase. Pakistan reached 141-1 in just 21.5 overs, securing their spot in the final, while Bangladesh exited the tournament after their disappointing performance.