AL AMERAT – A magnificent century from Usman Khan, supported by impressive half-centuries from Abdul Qadir and captain Farhan Yousaf, lifted Pakistan to a formidable total of 337 for nine against arch-rivals India in the ACC Men’s U19 Asia Cup 2026 final at Al Amerat Cricket Ground in Oman on Saturday.
After winning the toss, Pakistan opted to bat first, with the defending champions producing an aggressive yet disciplined batting performance to post a challenging target for India.
Openers Hayam Khan and Usman provided Pakistan with a flying start, putting together 62 runs in just eight overs before Kavya Paresh Patel dismissed Hayam through a catch behind the wickets.
Hayam contributed 21 off 23 balls, striking four boundaries.
Abdul Qadir joined Usman at the crease and immediately strengthened Pakistan’s position. The pair launched a strong counterattack against the Indian bowlers, building a commanding 135-run stand for the second wicket.
Both batters completed their half-centuries during the partnership before Arjun Rajput ended Qadir’s impressive innings in the 27th over.
Qadir smashed 80 off just 54 deliveries, including eight sixes and three fours, giving Pakistan a significant boost.
Captain Farhan Yousaf then partnered with Usman to maintain the scoring momentum. Their 43-run stand for the third wicket took Pakistan further towards a substantial total, while Usman brought up a well-deserved century.
The left-handed opener eventually departed in the 37th over after scoring a match-high 107 from 111 balls. His innings featured 11 boundaries and three sixes, providing the foundation for Pakistan’s imposing total.
Farhan continued the charge alongside Ahmed Hussain, adding another valuable 55 runs for the fourth wicket. The partnership ended with both batters losing their wickets in quick succession.
The Pakistan skipper scored an important 63 off 60 balls, hitting four fours and three sixes, while Ahmed contributed 17 from 20 deliveries.
India subsequently tightened its grip with two quick breakthroughs, removing Hasnain Abbas Dar for two and Hamza Zahoor for 10, leaving Pakistan at 317 for seven.
However, the lower order added useful runs in the closing stages. Mohammad Sayam scored seven, while Niqab Shafiq contributed 11 before both were dismissed in the final over.
For India, Patel emerged as the leading wicket-taker, claiming four wickets for 68 runs in his allotted 10 overs. Venkata picked up three wickets, while Rajput finished with one.
