The Pakistan Under-19 team is gearing up for a pivotal encounter against arch-rivals India on Sunday, a match that could determine their continued participation in the ICC Under-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup.
According to a report from ICC today, both sides enter the must-win fixture in strong form, with Pakistan fresh from a commanding eight-wicket victory over New Zealand and India having recently defeated Zimbabwe by 204 runs.
The squad”s recent success was underpinned by a calculated strategy to boost their net run rate. After dismissing the Kiwis for just 110, the Pakistani batters completed the chase in a rapid 17.1 overs.
Captain Farhan Yousaf confirmed the approach was deliberate. “Yes, it was pre-planned, because we won the toss and bowled first and (after New Zealand batted) our plan was an early run chase in minimum overs,” Yousaf said. “I feel very good as captain because it was our first win in the Super Six.”
Instrumental to the swift victory was opener Sameer Minhas, who crafted an unbeaten 76 from only 59 balls. The performance drew high praise from his skipper, who noted, “I really enjoyed the batting of Sameer … he”s outstanding. I learn a lot of things from Sameer as a batter.”
The team feels well-adjusted to the playing environment, having participated in a tri-series in Zimbabwe before the tournament. “It (was) very helpful for us and already (having played) in these conditions is very helfpul for the next match,” Yousaf added.
Ahead of the much-hyped contest, the captain”s message is one of composure and internal focus. “The boys (have) morale high for the next game (against India) and … not too much (focus will be) on India, it”s (about) playing our natural game and play a good game in good spirit,” he stated.
“It”s a big game, the crowd really enjoy (games like this), but I already told the boys before, focus on the game … and give your 100 percent.”