Pakistan got off to a successful start in their U19 World Cup Super Six campaign, securing a three-wicket victory against Ireland in Potchefstroom, South Africa on Tuesday.
Opting to bowl first, Pakistan's disciplined bowlers applied early pressure on Ireland, restricting them to a modest total of 180 runs.
Despite a tense chase where Ireland's bowlers posed a threat, Pakistan managed to reach the target in 43.4 overs, led by Saad Baig and his teammates.
Pakistan's bowlers set the tone by limiting Ireland to a slow run rate of one in the initial five overs.
The breakthrough came when Ubaid Shah dismissed Jordan Neill in the first half of the second powerplay, capitalising on Neill's attempt at a pull shot. Ireland faced instability, losing five wickets for just 50 runs during the first half of the second powerplay.
Ali Raza, Ahmad Hassan, and Amir Hassan each contributed with a wicket, and Ubaid Shah secured his second breakthrough in the 24th over.
Despite a resilient partnership between John McNally and Harry Dyer for the seventh wicket, Ireland couldn't reach a competitive total. McNally's contribution of 53 was notable, but Ireland was eventually bowled out by the 49th over, with Ubaid Shah finishing with figures of 3/31.
In response, Pakistan's openers made a positive start, scoring at a rate of around five runs per over until Reuben Wilson's breakthrough.
Ahmad Hassan’s all-round brilliance helped Pakistan secure a three-wicket win over Ireland 👌
— ICC (@ICC) January 30, 2024
He's the @aramco #POTM 🎉#U19WorldCup #PAKvIRE pic.twitter.com/cEhTUQ2nqD
Shahzaib Khan, Pakistan's top run scorer in the tournament, fell to Wilson while attempting a cut shot. Another setback followed as Shamyl Hossain mistimed a pull shot, leading to his dismissal by Ollie Riley.
Azan Awais and Saad Baig then took charge, cautiously rebuilding the innings. However, Awais fell victim to Dryer's delivery and was adjudged leg before wicket. Dryer struck again, removing Saad Baig and leaving Pakistan four down for 78.
The promotion of Ubaid Shah in the batting order proved unsuccessful, but Ahmad Hassan and Haroon Arshad formed a solid partnership, steering Pakistan close to victory.
Ahmad Hassan played a pivotal role, remaining unbeaten on 57 off 72 balls and guiding Pakistan to victory in the 44th over. With this triumph, the Boys in Green are set to face Bangladesh in their second and final Super Six match on February 3.
