Basically
- Pakistan won by five runs over Bangladesh.
- Ubaid Shah destroyed Bangladesh's batting order with five wickets.
- Australia and Pakistan will square off in the semifinal.
The Pakistan U19 cricket team defeated Bangladesh in a dramatic match that ended in a nail-biting conclusion, securing the final semifinal spot in the ICC U19 Men's Cricket World Cup 2024.
Pakistan won by just five runs against their opponents.
Bangladesh chose to field first on the opening day. Pakistan's openers, Shamyl Hussain and Shahzaib Khan attacked the innings carefully, but Md. Rohanat Doullah Borson of Bangladesh soon broke their rhythm. Borson's delivery, inswinging, left.
After stumping Azan Awais, Shamyl promptly claimed another wicket with a crisp bouncer that the keeper could barely pass.
After being run out by a direct hit, Pakistan's captain, Saad Baig, was left battling at 66 for three. After Sheikh Paevez, Jibon, and Borson claimed quick wickets, Pakistan was reduced to 89 for six, worsening the situation. But Arafat Minhas and Ali Asfand forged an important alliance, bringing 43 runs to steady the innings. Pakistan tried its hardest, but in the end, it was bowled out for a low score of 155, leaving Bangladesh with a goal of 156 to reach 38.1 overs.
Ubaid Shah led the Pakistani bowlers, who started quickly. Shah's early removal of both Bangladeshi openers established the tone for the remainder of the innings. While Chowdhury Md Rizwan and Ariful Islam tried to regroup, Pakistan's bowlers maintained pressure, with notable breakthroughs from Ali Raza.
Under the constant assault, Bangladesh's middle order collapsed, with Ubaid Shah taking center stage. Despite dropping a catch, he made up for it by taking five wickets, including the crucial one of Shihab James, who had been leading Bangladesh's innings. Pakistan strengthened their hold on the game after Mahfuzur, the captain of Bangladesh, was dismissed in the next over.
Bangladesh's tail-enders, Borson and Maruf Mridha, demonstrated resiliency despite extreme odds, taking the squad dangerously close to victory. Although hopes were boosted by a six from Borson off Arafat Minhas, Pakistan's Mohammad Zeeshan struck the decisive blow, tidying up Maruf and securing victory for his side.
Pakistan, Australia, South Africa, and India entered the semifinals with this win. Australia will now play the team on February 8th in what should be a thrilling match. On February 6th, India will play South Africa in the first semifinal in Benoni.
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