HARARE: Pakistan opener Sameer Minhas plays a shot during the U-19 tri-series match against Zimbabwe at the Prince Edward School Ground on Monday.—Courtesy Zimbabwe Cricket
HARARE: Pakistan opener Sameer Minhas plays a shot during the U-19 tri-series match against Zimbabwe at the Prince Edward School Ground on Monday.—Courtesy Zimbabwe Cricket

HARARE: Centuries by Sameer Minhas and Usman Khan went in vain as persistent rain forced a no result in the third match of the Under-19 tri-series between Pakistan and Zimbabwe at the Prince Edward School Ground on Monday.

After winning the toss and opting to field, Zimbabwe were made to toil as Pakistan piled up an imposing 354 for seven in their allotted 50 overs, built around a commanding second-wicket stand between Sameer and Usman.

Sameer, who was named player of the tournament at the recently concluded Under-19 Asia Cup, top-scored with a fluent 142 off 106 balls, laced with 17 fours and four sixes.

Usman provided able support at the other end, compiling 121 off 112 deliveries with the help of 12 fours and two sixes. The pair added 199 runs for the second wicket, putting Pakistan firmly in control.

After the departure of both centurions, Huzaifa Ahsan kept the scoreboard ticking with a brisk 54 off 53 balls, striking three fours and two sixes to help Pakistan cross the 350-run mark.

For the hosts, Kirby Madharamete returned figures of three wickets, while Panashe Mazai picked up two.

However, rain arrived before Zimbabwe could begin their reply and no further play was possible, resulting in the match being abandoned without a ball being bowled in the second innings.

Pakistan had earlier edged Afghanistan by one wicket in their opening match of the tri-series and will face the same opponents again in the fifth fixture on Friday.

Published in Dawn, December 30th, 2025

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