England U-19 Beat Pakistan by Two Runs in Thrilling Third ODI
Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail
England Under-19 secured a dramatic two-run victory over Pakistan Under-19 in the third youth ODI at Sir Paul Getty’s Ground in Wormsley on Monday.
Pakistan came extremely close to completing a successful chase of 303 after a remarkable partnership between Hamza Zahoor and Hasnain Abbas Dar, but England held their nerve in the final moments.
Pakistan finished their 50 overs on 300-9, needing four runs from the last delivery. They could manage only one run, allowing England to stay alive in the four-match series.
Hamza and Hasnain Lead Pakistan’s Fightback
Pakistan’s chase appeared to be slipping away after they were reduced to 124-5.
Hamza Zahoor and Hasnain Abbas Dar then produced a superb 154-run partnership to bring Pakistan back into contention.
Hamza played an attacking innings of 86 from 65 balls, hitting six fours and five sixes. Hasnain provided valuable support with 56 off 67 deliveries, including five boundaries.
The pair took Pakistan’s total to 278 before Hasnain was dismissed in the 47th over. Hamza followed soon afterwards, leaving Pakistan needing 25 runs from the final 19 balls.
Pakistan Fall Short in Final Over
Mohammad Sayyam briefly revived Pakistan’s hopes with a quick 14 from eight balls, including two sixes.
However, his attempt to take a second run in the final over ended in a run-out on the fourth delivery.
Pakistan then required four runs from the final ball to win the match, but managed only a single as England completed a narrow victory.
England Post 302 Runs
Earlier, Pakistan captain Farhan Yousaf won the toss and chose to field.
England responded by scoring 302-6 in 50 overs.
Jack Nelson was England’s leading run-scorer with 74 off 68 balls, while Theo Lamey added 58.
For Pakistan, Rizwanullah was the standout bowler, claiming 3 wickets for 59 runs from his 10 overs.
Pakistan’s Chase Gets Off to a Difficult Start
Pakistan lost Usman Khan and Hayam Khan early in the innings.
Abdul Qadir then scored 26 from 24 balls, while Ahmed Hussain contributed 38 and captain Farhan Yousaf made 24.
The middle-order collapse left Pakistan struggling at 124-5 before Hamza and Hasnain launched their impressive recovery.
Pakistan Still Lead Series 2-1
Despite the defeat, Pakistan Under-19 remain ahead 2-1 in the four-match series after winning the opening two games.
