HARARE — A commanding century from Sameer Minhas powered Pakistan to a dominant nine-wicket victory over Zimbabwe, securing the Under-19 ODI tri-series title at the Old Hararians on Tuesday.
Chasing a modest target of 159, Pakistan U19 completed the task in just 16.2 overs, losing only one wicket. The win was built on a commanding opening partnership that left the hosts with no chance of a comeback.
Source: Geo News
Minhas and Mohammad Shayan set the tone early, stitching together a fluent 50-run stand that immediately put Zimbabwe under pressure. Minhas, in sublime form throughout the tournament, soon shifted gears and took complete control of the chase.
The right-handed batter registered his third half-century of the series before converting it into a stunning century, showcasing clean hitting and remarkable timing. The opening pair went on to add a match-winning 145 runs before Minhas was dismissed by Leeroy Chiwaula.
Minhas finished with a blistering 114 off just 51 balls, hammering 17 fours and five sixes in a breathtaking display. Shayan remained unbeaten on 38 from 42 deliveries, while Usman Khan added the finishing touches with a brief cameo.
Earlier, Zimbabwe’s innings unraveled almost immediately after opting to bat first. Umar Zaib struck twice in the opening over, removing Samuel Muyambo and Kian Blignaut, setting the tone for a relentless Pakistani bowling effort.
Zaib continued his spell of destruction, dismissing Takudzwa Makoni and Brandon Ndiweni inside the power play. Zimbabwe captain Kupakwashe Muradzi failed to halt the slide, departing with the score at 15-5.
A brief recovery came through partnerships involving Leeroy Chiwaula and Michael Blignaut, followed by a more substantial stand between Blignaut and Benny Zuze. However, Pakistan’s bowlers kept chipping away, preventing Zimbabwe from building momentum.
Blignaut top-scored with a patient 60 off 102 balls before falling late in the innings, as Zimbabwe were eventually bowled out for 158.
Zaib was the standout performer with the ball, returning impressive figures of 4 for 20. Abdul Subhan claimed two wickets, while Mohammad Sayyam, Daniyal Ali Khan, and Ahmed Hussain contributed one each.
With a comprehensive performance in both departments, Pakistan U19 capped off a successful campaign by lifting the tri-series trophy in convincing fashion.
