Defending champions Pakistan have qualified for the final of the Men’s Under-19 Asia Cup 2026 after beating Bangladesh by nine wickets in the first semi-final at the Al Amerat Cricket Ground in Oman. The win sends Pakistan into the title decider, where they will face either India or Afghanistan.
India and Afghanistan were playing the second semi-final that day. The final is scheduled to take place on Saturday.
Rizwanullah’s five-wicket haul restricts Bangladesh
Opting to bat first, Bangladesh were bowled out for 138 in the 32nd over, setting Pakistan a target of 139 runs. Rizwanullah was the standout with the ball, claiming a five-wicket haul that held Bangladesh to a modest total.
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Usman and Hiyam Khan lead the chase
Pakistan comfortably passed the target in the 26th over, losing only one wicket. Openers Usman Khan and Hiyam Khan both struck impressive half-centuries. Hiyam was dismissed after scoring 69, while Usman stayed unbeaten on 64.
The Asian Cricket Council said the defending champions are one win away from lifting the trophy again.
Pakistan’s previous meeting and tournament history
In the previous edition, Pakistan also beat Bangladesh, by eight wickets. Sameer Minhas scored an unbeaten 69 and Abdul Subhan claimed four wickets in that match.
The Asian Under-19 tournament was first held in Bangladesh in 1989, featuring India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka in a double round-robin format. India, led by Ranjib Biswal, beat Sri Lanka by 79 runs in the inaugural final. The second edition, in Pakistan in 2003, was won by India, which beat Sri Lanka by eight wickets at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium.
The third edition, held in Malaysia in 2012, ended with a tied final between India and Pakistan, and both teams shared the trophy.
