PNN: The third match of the ICC Under-19 ODI tri-series between Pakistan and Zimbabwe was abandoned without a result after persistent rain halted play at the Harare Sports Club on Monday, denying spectators a potential high-scoring contest.
Zimbabwe were unable to resume their innings in pursuit of Pakistan’s imposing total of 354 for 7, which had been built on commanding centuries from Sameer Minhas and Usman Khan. Continuous showers rendered the outfield unplayable, forcing officials to call off the match.Earlier, after being put into bat, Pakistan laid a solid foundation through openers Ali Hassan Baloch and Sameer Minhas, who added 40 runs for the first wicket.
Baloch departed early for eight off 15 balls, falling to Kirby Madharamete, but that dismissal did little to slow Pakistan’s momentum.Minhas was then joined by Usman Khan, and the duo produced a dominant 199-run partnership that completely seized control of the innings. Both batters displayed maturity and composure beyond their years, rotating the strike efficiently and punishing loose deliveries to push Pakistan beyond the 300-run mark.
Minhas emerged as the top-scorer with a magnificent 142 off 106 balls, striking 17 fours and four sixes before being dismissed by Benny Zuze. Usman followed soon after, ending a polished knock of 121 off 112 deliveries, which included 12 fours and two sixes.Following the double blow, Huzaifa Ahsan provided late impetus with a fighting 54 off 53 balls, adding 83 runs alongside Usman earlier. However, Pakistan lost a cluster of wickets in the closing overs, including skipper Farhan Yousaf and Daniyal Ali Khan, as Zimbabwe fought back briefly.
For Zimbabwe, Kirby Madharamete was the pick of the bowlers, claiming 3 for 53, while Panashe Mazai and Dhruv Patel chipped in with two and one wicket respectively.Despite Pakistan’s commanding batting display, rain ultimately had the final say, leaving both teams to share points in a frustrating end to an otherwise compelling contest.
PAKISTAN U19 354-7, 50 overs (Sameer Minhas 142, Usman Khan 121, Huzaifa Ahsan 54; Kirby Madharamete 3-53, Panashe Mazai 2-51) vs ZIMBABWE U19.