MUSCAT: Opener Usman Khan struck a magnificent unbeaten century as defending champions Pakistan cruised to a nine-wicket victory over the United Arab Emirates in their Group ‘A’ opener of the ACC Men’s U-19 Asia Cup at the Al Amerat Cricket Ground (Ministry Turf 2) in Muscat on Friday.
Pakistan reached the 225-run target in just 37.3 overs, finishing with 12.3 overs to spare. Player-of-the-match Usman led the charge with an unbeaten 139 off 120 balls, hitting 21 fours and a six after completing the century off 98 deliveries. The belligerent innings marked his fourth century in youth ODIs.
Left-handed Usman shared a commanding 153-run opening partnership with Jahangir Bilal, who contributed a patient 87-ball 60 laced with six boundaries, before being dismissed by Ahmed Khudadad in the 29th over.
Usman then combined with Abdul Qadir to complete the chase, adding 72 runs for the second wicket. Qadir remained unbeaten on 20 off 19.
Earlier after Pakistan captain Farhan Yousuf elected to field, the UAE managed 224 in their allotted 50 overs, with Noorullah Ayobi (70 off 55) leading the scoring with the help of three fours and six sixes. Yayin Kiran Rai made 47 off 74.
Mohammad Sayyam spearheaded Pakistan’s bowling attack with three wickets for 37 runs while Ali Raza, Hasnain Abbas Dar and Rizwanullah claimed two wickets apiece.
Pakistan, who defeated India by 191 runs in last December’s final to lift the previous edition’s title, will next take on their traditional rivals on Sunday at the OCA Ground 1.
Published in Dawn, November 7th, 2026
