Usman Khan Shines as Pakistan Beats Scotland in U19 World Cup 2026

Pakistan’s young cricket stars kicked off their ICC Men’s U19 World Cup 2026 campaign in style, as Usman Khan shines with a composed half-century to help Pakistan secure a commanding four-wicket victory over Scotland. The thrilling 12th match, held at Takashinga Sports Club on a bustling Monday, showcased disciplined bowling, strong partnerships, and a promising start to Pakistan’s tournament journey.

Pakistan’s Bowlers Set the Stage

Winning the toss, Pakistan chose to bowl first, a decision that immediately paid dividends. Scotland was dismissed for 187 runs in 47.1 overs, struggling to build momentum. Fast bowler Ali Raza opened with a bang, removing Theo Robinson for 4 and Max Chaplin for 2 in his very first over, leaving Scotland reeling at 12-2. Raza finished with four wickets, while spinner Momin Qamar contributed three key dismissals, ensuring Pakistan maintained control throughout the innings.

Scotland’s Brief Fightback

Despite the early setbacks, Scotland attempted a recovery. Rory Grant and captain Thomas Knight formed a 47-run partnership, with Knight top-scoring at 37 off 72 balls. Ollie Jones added 30 runs, and later Manu Saraswat (25) and Finlay Jones (33) briefly steadied the innings before another lower-order collapse left Scotland in trouble.

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Usman Khan and Ahmed Hussain Steady the Ship

Chasing 188, Pakistan’s openers, Ali Hassan Baloch and Sameer Minhas, laid a steady foundation with 43 runs in the first 10 overs. However, Scotland struck back when off-spinner Ollie Jones dismissed Ali Hassan (15) and Sameer Minhas (28), briefly putting Pakistan under pressure at 48-2 in 11.1 overs.

It was then that Usman Khan shone, forming a match-defining 111-run partnership with Ahmed Hussain for the third wicket. The pair batted with maturity and patience, expertly rotating the strike and neutralizing the Scottish attack. Usman’s well-timed half-century off 59 balls guided Pakistan to 124-2 after 31 overs, firmly regaining control of the game.

Final Push to Victory

The partnership ended in the 39th over when Usman Khan was dismissed for a polished 75 off 85 balls, including five fours and two sixes. Pakistan required just 29 more runs, and captain Farhan Yousaf confidently sealed the win with a boundary. Ahmed Hussain had contributed 47 valuable runs before falling near the end, completing a comprehensive team effort.

Usman Khan’s Star Performance Highlights Pakistan’s Strength

Usman Khan shines not only with his bat but also by leading Pakistan’s young team with composure and skill. The disciplined bowling, strategic partnerships, and focused batting display promise a bright future for Pakistan in the U19 World Cup 2026.

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