Pakistan U-19 captain Farhan Yousaf has urged his team to remain humble as they prepare for a tri-series against Zimbabwe and Afghanistan, starting Saturday in Harare.
The tri-series will serve as preparation for the ICC U-19 World Cup, scheduled to begin on January 15 in Zimbabwe and Namibia.
Pakistan recently lifted the U-19 Asia Cup after defeating an unbeaten India side by 191 runs in the final.
In the final, opener Sameer Minhas scored a commanding 172, while fast bowler Ali Raza took four wickets to dismantle India’s batting lineup. Former Pakistan captain Sarfraz Ahmed guided the team.
Despite the rising expectations, Farhan stressed that the upcoming matches are a new challenge.
“The past is in the past, this is a new journey and a new chapter, and we are preparing for it accordingly,” Farhan said in a statement released by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Friday.
“The Asia Cup was a good win for us, and the players showed great morale and intensity. The players are confident and excited as we head into the tri-series.”
Pakistan will face Afghanistan in the tri-series opener at the Harare Sports Club before taking on the hosts, Zimbabwe, at Prince Edward School on December 29.
The national team will meet Afghanistan again at Sunrise Sports Club on January 2 and play Zimbabwe in their final round-robin match on January 4.
The tri-series final will be held at Harare Sports Club on January 6.
“Both teams in the tournament are strong and competitive, and we respect every opposition as we look forward to a competitive event,” Farhan said.
The tri-series will help all three teams prepare for the U-19 World Cup, which runs until February 6. Pakistan is placed in Group C and will play its group-stage matches from January 16 to 22.
The Super Six stage will be held from January 25 to February 1, followed by the semi-finals on February 3 and 4. The final of the 16-team tournament will be played at Harare Sports Club on February 6.