Pakistan launched their ACC Men’s U-19 Asia Cup 2025 campaign dominantly, thrashing Malaysia by a massive 297-run margin at The Sevens.
Brilliant centuries from Sameer Minhas and Ahmed Hussain, backed by a lethal bowling display, set up the one-sided victory.
Chasing a towering 346-run target, Malaysia collapsed for just 48 runs in 19.4 overs, unable to cope with Pakistan’s disciplined attack. Muhammad Akram’s nine off 16 balls was Malaysia’s highest score, as not a single batter managed to reach double figures.
For Pakistan, Mohammad Sayyam and Ali Raza led the charge with three wickets each, while Daniyal Ali Khan took two and Niqab Shafiq added one to wrap up the innings.
Earlier in the day, Malaysia captain Deeaz Patro opted to bowl first, a decision that proved costly. Pakistan recovered from early trouble to post 345/3 in 50 overs, powered by a massive 203-run stand between Sameer and Ahmed for the third wicket.
Pakistan’s innings began shakily when Usman Khan departed for just one run, and Ali Hassan Baloch followed soon after for 14, leaving the team at 30/2 in the 10th over.
From there, Sameer and Ahmed took complete control. Ahmed smashed 132 off 144 balls, hitting eight fours and two sixes, before an unusual hit-wicket dismissal ended his stay in the 49th over.
Sameer, however, remained unbeaten till the end, hammering 177 off 148 balls, featuring 11 boundaries and eight towering sixes.
For Malaysia, Nagineswaran Sathnakumaran picked up two wickets but proved expensive, conceding 91 runs in his 10 overs, while Akram claimed one for 64.
Pakistan next face tougher opposition as the tournament progresses, but their opening performance sends a strong warning to the rest of the competition.
