Ali Raza and Sameer Minhas once again delivered for Pakistan as they secured a commanding eight-wicket win over Zimbabwe in the 19th match of the ICC Men’s U19 World Cup 2026 at the Takashinga Sports Club on Thursday.
Pakistan completed the chase without difficulty. Set a modest target of 129, they reached 129 for 2 in 26.2 overs, underlining their authority in the contest. Openers Ali Hassan Baloch and Sameer Minhas put on 19 runs in 3.3 overs before Baloch was dismissed for three. Minhas then added 49 runs with Usman Khan, taking Pakistan to 68 in 10.5 overs and leaving Zimbabwe with little chance of recovery.
A disciplined performance helps Pakistan round off the #U19WorldCup 2026 group stage with a win 👌
— ICC (@ICC) January 22, 2026
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Zimbabwe’s Michael Blignaut provided a rare breakthrough by removing Usman Khan, who scored 26 from 23 balls, including five fours. Minhas, however, remained composed and went on to share an unbeaten 64-run partnership with Ahmed Hussain. The match ended emphatically as Minhas struck consecutive sixes off Blignaut. The right-hander finished unbeaten on 74 from 75 balls, with six fours and three sixes. Ahmed Hussain contributed 24. For Zimbabwe, Blignaut and Panashe Mazai claimed one wicket each.
Earlier, Pakistan’s pace attack set the tone with a disciplined display, bowling out co-hosts Zimbabwe for 128 in 35.5 overs. After winning the toss, Pakistan captain Farhan Yousaf chose to field, a move that brought immediate reward. Zimbabwe opener Nathaniel Hlabangana top-scored with 59 from 85 balls, hitting seven boundaries, but received little support. Brandon Senzere was the only other batter to reach double figures, scoring 15.
Ali Raza led the bowling with figures of 3 for 16 from eight overs, while Mohammad Sayyam, Momin Qamar and Abdul Subhan took two wickets apiece.
It is pertinent to note that Pakistan have already booked their place in the Super Six stage. Zimbabwe also progressed despite the loss, finishing ahead of Scotland on net run rate.
