Pakistan skipper eyes another title ahead of U19 World Cup

Pakistan will look to carry their winning momentum into the ICC Under-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup as they take on Zimbabwe in the tri-series final. The tournament has served as vital preparation ahead of the marquee event, and Pakistan will be eager to cap it off on a high note as they chase back-to-back titles following their recent triumph in the U19 Asia Cup.

“The tri-series has helped us prepare well for the upcoming mega event. Our batting unit has shown positive intent, while the bowlers have delivered at key moments.

“Playing a final against the hosts will be a good challenge for us. The players are ready, and we want to finish the tournament on a positive note and carry momentum into the World Cup,” said Farhan Yousaf.

Pakistan have enjoyed an impressive run in recent months as they build towards the ICC Under-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup, set to begin on January 15. Under the leadership of Farhan Yousaf, the young side lifted the Under-19 Asia Cup last month, producing a dominant performance in the final to defeat arch-rivals India by a commanding 191 runs.

Sameer Minhas has emerged as the standout performer for Pakistan and will be one of the key players to watch at the U19 World Cup. The stylish batter topped the run-scoring charts at the U19 Asia Cup, piling up 471 runs at a remarkable average of 157 and a strike rate of 117.46. He has continued that red-hot form into the tri-series, once again leading the charts with 246 runs from four matches, averaging 61.50 at a strike rate of 114.42. With momentum firmly on their side, Pakistan will be aiming to add to their two Under-19 World Cup titles and claim their first triumph in the tournament since 2006.

Pakistan's group-stage fixtures at ICC U19 Men's Cricket World Cup:

January 16: v England, Harare

January 19: v Scotland, Harare

January 22: v Zimbabwe, Harare