Pakistan delivered a dominant all-round performance to defeat co-hosts Zimbabwe in the ICC U19 World Cup 2026 at the Takashinga Sports Club in Highfield.
Chasing a modest target of 129, the Green Shirts reached the total in 26.2 overs with two wickets down, making the run chase look routine.
Pakistan’s innings began with Ali Hassan Baloch and Sameer Minhas putting on 19 runs in 3.3 overs before Baloch departed for 3, caught early in the chase. After the first breakthrough, Usman Khan joined Minhas and the pair built a solid 49-run partnership, taking Pakistan to 68 in 10.5 overs and putting the match firmly in their control.
Zimbabwe finally found some relief when Michael Blignaut dismissed Usman, who scored 26 off 23 balls with the help of five fours. However, the wicket did little to slow Pakistan down as Minhas stayed composed and guided the chase with an unbeaten stand of 64 runs off 83 balls, steering his side home comfortably.
Earlier, Pakistan’s pacers set up the win with a disciplined bowling effort that restricted Zimbabwe to 128 all out in 35.5 overs. After winning the toss, Pakistan captain Farhan Yousaf chose to field.
Zimbabwe opener Nathaniel Hlabangana was the standout for the hosts, fighting hard for 59 off 85 deliveries, including seven boundaries. Beyond him, the batting offered little resistance, with Brandon Senzere the only other player to cross double figures, scoring 15.
Pakistan’s attack was led by Ali Raza, who produced an outstanding spell of 3 for 16 in 8 overs. He received strong support from Mohammad Sayyam, Momin Qamar, and Abdul Subhan, who picked up two wickets each, while Ahmed Hussain added one scalp to complete the effort.
Pakistan have already booked a place in the Super Sixes, but this win strengthens their position in Group C and keeps them on track for a higher finish. Zimbabwe, meanwhile, came into the match needing a win to stay in contention, as victory would have boosted their chances of overtaking Scotland for a Super Sixes berth.
