National U19 Championship (3-day) and National U19 Cup (1-day) Discussion

[MenInG]

The best teenage talent will be in action once again from tomorrow as the second rounds of National U19 Championship (three-day) and National U19 Cup (one-day) commence tomorrow.

The three-day matches will be played from 22 till 24 September and the one-day contests will be staged on 26 September. Faisalabad, Gujranwala, Karachi, Sargodha and Sheikhupura will play host to these fixtures, which promise to unearth exciting talents.

The 18 regional sides are equally divided into three groups and the top team from each group will qualify for the triangular stage of both tournaments.

The two teams that top the triangular stage will play the finals of the National U19 Championship from 10 to 13 November at Rana Naveed Academy in Sheikhupura and the National U19 Cup on 26 October at the Iqbal Stadium in Faisalabad.

Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Faisalabad, Fata, Hyderabad, Karachi Whites and Quetta are placed in Group A. Islamabad, Lahore Blues, Larkana, Multan, Peshawar and Rawalpindi are in Group B, while Abbottabad, Bahawalpur, Dera Murad Jamali, Karachi Blues, Lahore Whites and Sialkot are part of Group C.

Following the first round matches of National U19 Championship (15-17 September), Karachi Whites are leading the table of Group A with 10 points, while Rawalpindi and Bahawalpur are leading their respective groups.

In the first round of National U19 Cup (19 September), Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Karachi Whites and Quetta won their respective matches in Group A. In Group B, the first-round matches were abandoned due to rain. Meanwhile, in Group C, Abbottabad are leading the table after defeating Lahore Whites in their opening match. The matches between the other four regions in the group were abandoned due to rain.

 

[FearlessRoar]

National U19 Championship (3-Day)

The second round of the 18-team National U19 Championship was played in five cities of the country from 22 to 24 September. After the second round, Karachi U19 Whites are leading Group A with two wins in as many matches. In Group B, Rawalpindi U19 occupy the top spot with better net-run-rate than Islamabad and Peshawar U19 regions. All three teams have collected four points each. In Group C, Bahawalpur U19 region are topping the table with 12 points, which included a win and one drawn game.

Pool A

Karachi Whites v Quetta at KCCA Ground, Karachi

Karachi Whites completely dominated the three-day second round fixture against Quetta U19 Region at the KCCA Ground. After being put into bat, Quetta were bundled out for 54 in their first innings. Quetta’s Adil Ahmed managed to enter double figures and top-scored for his side with 23 runs.

For Karachi Whites, right-arm leg-spin Abdul Moeez bagged five wickets for 10 runs in 6.5 overs. He was supported by right-arm off-spinner Naveed Ahmed Khan, who took four wickets for 20 runs.

In their first innings, on the back of half-centuries by Wahaj Riaz (98, 110b, 7x4s, 2x6s) and Haroon Arshad (67, 124b, 5x4s), Karachi Whites declared their innings on 205 for nine in 54.2 overs. Quetta’s Ikram Ullah Tareen took five wickets for his side, while leg-spinner Syed Yasir Shah took four wickets.

Resuming their second innings with a deficit of 151 runs, Quetta were dismissed for 50, handing Karachi Whites a win with an innings and 101 runs. For Karachi Whites, left-arm orthodox Syed Tayyab Hussain took five wickets.

Faisalabad v AJK at TMC Ground, Karachi

Opting to bat first, AJK U19 were bundled out for 130 in 49.2 overs against Faisalabad U19. Jahanzaib Ali Kiani (38, 79b, 4x4s, 1x6) and Abdullah Riaz (30, 108b, 2x4s) were the top contributors with the bat. For Faisalabad, right-arm fast bowler Ibtisam Ul Rehman took three wickets, while Mohammad Haseeb Zafar and Mohammad Zeeshan grabbed two wickets each.

In reply, Faisalabad took a 140-run first innings lead courtesy 43 and 37 runs from Ibtisam and Muzammil, respectively. They were bowled out for 270 in 75 overs. For AJK, Mohammad Sami was the pick of the bowlers, taking three wickets.

Resuming their second innings at the deficit of 140 runs, AJK were bundled out for 150 in 46.4 overs. Captain and wicketkeeper-batter Ali Abbas top-scored for his side with a 93-ball 52, which included eight boundaries. For Faisalabad, Haseeb remained the top bowler in the second innings too after he bagged five wickets.

Faisalabad achieved the 11-run target in the fourth over, losing three wickets in process.

Hyderabad v FATA at UBL Sports Complex, Karachi

After being put into bat, Yahya Shah’s half-century helped Hyderabad post 250 in the first innings against FATA. For FATA, Mohammad Tahir and Shahid Khan bagged three wickets apiece. In turn, FATA declared their first innings at 297 for eight in 72.5 overs, which included half-centuries by Mohammad Tahir (72 retired hurt, 121b, 5x4s), Shehzad Khan (53, 84b, 8x4s) and Shahid Khan (50, 62b, 8x4s).

Resuming their second innings with a deficit of 47 runs, Hyderabad were all out for 255 in 69.2 overs. Noman Ali top-scored for his side with 84 from 135 balls, hitting 11 fours.

For Hyderabad, Hammad Khan took three wickets, while Tahir and Khubaib Khalil each took two wickets.

Chasing 209 to win, FATA were bowled out for 165 in 41.3 overs, handing a 43-run win to Hyderabad. For Hyderabad, Wahaj Ahmed and Zain ul Abdin grabbed three wickets apiece.

Pool B

Lahore Blues v Larkana Region at Bohranwali Ground, Faisalabad

Only 44.4 overs of play took place in the match as rain played a spoilsport and the match was abandoned. After being put into bat, Larkana were 84 for nine when no further action could take place between both sides. Lahore Blues’ Saad Nadeem was the most successful bowler, clinching three wickets for 17 runs in 12 overs.

Multan v Peshawar at Saeed Ajmal Cricket Academy, Faisalabad

Multan’s captain and opening batter Moheer Saeed top-scored with 83 for his side in an abandoned contest between Multan and Peshawar.

Opting to bat first, Multan managed to score 178 for four in 42 overs in their first innings when rain stopped the game.

For Peshawar, Ahmad Hussain bagged two wickets for 27 runs.

Rawalpindi v Islamabad at Iqbal Stadium, Faisalabad

After opting to bat first, Islamabad were dismissed for 113 in 36.1 overs against Rawalpindi. Right-arm off-spinner Saad Masood grabbed five wickets for 10 runs in 5.1 overs. In reply, Rawalpindi were 27 for no loss in 8.2 overs when rain stopped play and eventually the game was abandoned without any further play.

Pool C

Dera Murad Jamali v Sialkot at Sports Stadium, Sargodha

Like Pool B, the Pool C matches were largely impacted by rain. In the contest between DM Jamali and Sialkot, only 23 overs of play were possible after the former won the toss and elected to bowl first. Sialkot were 73 for one in 23 overs, before the game was called off.

Lahore Whites v Karachi Blues at Rana Naveed Cricket Academy, Sheikhupura

Batting first, Lahore Whites scored 197 for six in 55.5 overs when rain stopped play.

Opening batter Faham-ul-Haq top-scored for his team with 60 off 100 balls, smashing five fours and a six. Ali Hassan Baloch contributed an unbeaten half-century, which included five fours.

For Karachi, Ahmed Aleem took four wickets for 49.

Bahawalpur v Abbottabad at Jinnah Stadium, Gujranwala

After being put into bat, Bahawalpur scored 279 for eight in 75 overs. Opening batter Hamza Nawaz fell eight runs short of a century. He faced 149 balls, and struck six fours and a six. Haseeb Ahmad was other contributor with the bat, scoring 60 off 96 balls, hitting five boundaries.

For Abbottabad, Mohammad Riazullah took three wickets, while both Razaullah and Shahzaib Khan bagged two wickets.

In turn, Abbottabad’s Shahzaib (53, 104b, 8x4s, 1x6) was the only batter to score a half-century for his side as Abbottabad were bundled out for 168 in 63.1 overs. For Bahawalpur, Mohammad Huzaifa took three wickets. Haseeb Ahmad and Mohammad Faizan grabbed two wickets each.

Third round fixtures from 29 September to 1 October:

Group A

Karachi Whites U19 v Hyderabad U19 at UBL Sports Complex, Karachi

Quetta U19 v AJK U19 at Oval Ground, Karachi

Faisalabad U19 v FATA U19 at KCCA Stadium, Karachi

Group B

Lahore Blues U19 v Rawalpindi U19 at Saeed Ajmal Academy, Faisalabad

Multan U19 v Islamabad U19 at Bohranwala Ground, Faisalabad

Larkana U19 v Peshawar U19 at Iqbal Stadium, Faisalabad

Group C

Karachi Blues U19 v Sialkot U19 at Jinnah Stadium, Gujranwala

Lahore Whites U19 v Bahawalpur U19 at Rana Naved ul Hasan Cricket Academy, Sheikhupura

Dera Murad Jamali U19 v Abbottabad U19 at Sports Stadium, Sargodha

 

[FearlessRoar]

The second round of the 18-team National U19 Cup was played in Faisalabad, Gujranwala, Karachi, Sargodha and Sheikhupura on 26 and 27 September.

Group A matches in Karachi were held on 26 September, while Group B and C matches took place on 27 September. After the second round, Karachi U19 Whites and Abbottabad are leading Group A and C, respectively with two wins in as many matches. In Group B, Rawalpindi U19 occupy the top spot with 10 points.

Group A

Karachi Whites v Quetta at KCCA Ground, Karachi

After being put into bat, Karachi Whites managed to score 188 for nine in 50 overs. Ali Hasan top-scored for his side with a 104-ball 66, hitting two fours and a six. Quetta’s Qurban Ali was the pick of the bowlers, clinching three wickets for 37 runs from eight overs.

Chasing 189, Quetta were dismissed for 104 in 40.3 overs. Ikram Ullah Tareen was the top run-getter for his side, scoring 30 off 40 balls, which included three boundaries.

For the winning team, Abdul Moeez and Syed Tayyab Hussain bagged three wickets apiece.

Faisalabad v AJK at TMC Ground, Karachi

Opting to bowl first, AJK’s Ali Ishaq four-fer helped his side dismiss Faisalabad for 218 in 48 overs. For Faisalabad, Mohammad Zeeshan coming to bat at number nine top-scored with a quick-fire 54 off 34 balls, smashing three fours and five sixes.

In reply, AJK fell 16 runs short of the target and were all out in the 50th over. For the losing team, opening batter Ali Abbas scored 55 off 68 balls, hitting eight fours.

Faisalabad’s Shaban Saeed and Mohammad Zeeshan took two wickets each.

Hyderabad v FATA at UBL Sports Complex, Karachi

Half-centuries by Asif Khan (51, 63b, 9x4s) and Ishaq Khan (64, 112b, 6x4s, 1x6) helped FATA to a five-wicket win over Hyderabad. After being put into bat, Hyderabad were bundled out for 175 in 47.3 overs. Mohammad Tahir and Shahid Khan grabbed three wickets apiece.

In turn, FATA achieved the target in 41 overs. Mohammad Shaheer was the most successful bowler for the losing side, picking two wickets for 50 runs from 10 overs.

Group B

Lahore Blues v Larkana Region at Bohranwali Ground, Faisalabad

Opting to bat first, Larkana, on the back of half-centuries by Shahzaib Aziz (65 not out, 75b, 5x4s, 1x6) and Najaf Ali (52, 76b, 6x4s) scored 218 for eight in 50 overs. For Lahore Blues, captain Obaid Shahid and right-arm-fast Hamd Liaqat took three wickets each.

In reply, Lahore Blues achieved the target in the 45th over, losing five wickets in the process. Obaid scored an unbeaten 74 off 111 balls, hitting six boundaries. Opening -batter Farzam Ashraf was the other contributor with the bat, scoring a 49-ball 68, hitting 13 fours and a six.

For Larkana, Saqlain Nawaz bagged two wickets for 67 runs in 9.2 overs.

Multan v Peshawar at Saeed Ajmal Cricket Academy, Faisalabad

Batting first, Multan’s opening pair of Moheer Saeed (75, 115b, 4x4s, 1x6) and Rana Adeel (58, 75b, 8x4s) both scored half-centuries and helped their side post 241 all out in 50 overs. Peshawar’s Shahab took five wickets for 43 runs from 10 overs.

In turn, half centuries by Mohammad Zulkifal (78, 94b, 7x4s, 2x6s) and Najab Khan (53, 94b, 4x4s) went in vain as Peshawar fell four runs short of the target.

Multan’s Mohammad Ismail grabbed four wickets for 46, while Mohammad Shan took three for 44 in 8.3 overs.

Rawalpindi v Islamabad at Iqbal Stadium, Faisalabad

Opting to bat first, Islamabad were bowled out for 129 in 41.2 overs. Rawalpindi’s Saad Masood took three wickets for 22 in 10 overs. Usman Khan was other notable wicket-taker, taking two wickets for 28 runs.

In response, Rawalpindi achieved the target in 24 overs, losing five wickets. Mohammad Arshad top-scored for the winning side with a 63-ball 45, hitting five fours and one six.

For Islamabad, right-arm off-spinner Mohammad Yasin took four wickets for 13 runs in six overs.

Group C

Dera Murad Jamali v Sialkot at Sports Stadium, Sargodha

DM Jamali were bowled out for a paltry 112 in 39 overs after being put into bat by Sialkot. Khalid Khan, coming to bat at number four top-scored with a 59-ball 30, which included three fours. Sialkot’s Moosa Azeem was the pick of the bowlers, grabbing five wickets for 22 runs in nine overs.

In reply, Sialkot achieved the target in the 21st over, losing three wickets in process. Faraz Ahmed was the top run-getter with a 60-ball 48, which included five fours and one six.

Lahore Whites v Karachi Blues at Rana Naveed Cricket Academy, Sheikhupura

Faham-ul-Haq’s century guided Lahore Whites to a three-wicket win over Karachi Blues. Chasing 279 to win, left-handed opening batter Faham struck 13 fours and two sixes in his 129-ball 124 knock and knitted a 150-run partnership for the second wicket with Ali Hasan (83, 78b, 8x4s, 2x6s).

For Karachi Blues, Owais Raheem and Kashan Faheem bagged two wickets apiece.

Earlier, after opting to bat first, Karachi Blues were dismissed for 278 on the last ball of the 50th over. Abdul Rehman Niazi was the top run-getter for his side, scoring 66 off 98 balls, which included four fours and a six.

For Lahore, Ubaid Shah bagged five wickets for 71 runs.

Bahawalpur v Abbottabad at Jinnah Stadium, Gujranwala

Batting first, Abbottabad scored 279 for six in 50 overs on the back of an unbeaten 120 from Mohammad Riazullah. Shujah Zaheer was another contributor with the bat, scoring 62 off 63 balls, which included four fours and two sixes.

In turn, Bahawalpur were bowled out for 251 in 48.5 overs. Haseeb Ahmed top-scored for his side, scoring 102 off 101 balls, which included seven fours and two sixes.

Abbottabad’s Razaullah bagged five wickets for 44, while Aftab Ahmed and Salar Ahmed took two wickets each.

Third round fixtures on 3 October:

Group A

Karachi Whites U19 v Hyderabad U19 at UBL Sports Complex, Karachi

Quetta U19 v AJK U19 at Oval Ground, Karachi

Faisalabad U19 v FATA U19 at KCCA Stadium, Karachi

Group B

Lahore Blues U19 v Rawalpindi U19 at Saeed Ajmal Academy, Faisalabad

Multan U19 v Islamabad U19 at Bohranwala Ground, Faisalabad

Larkana U19 v Peshawar U19 at Iqbal Stadium, Faisalabad

Group C

Karachi Blues U19 v Sialkot U19 at Jinnah Stadium, Gujranwala

Lahore Whites U19 v Bahawalpur U19 at Rana Naved ul Hasan Cricket Academy, Sheikhupura

Dera Murad Jamali U19 v Abbottabad U19 at Sports Stadium, Sargodha

 

[FearlessRoar]

2 October 2023: The third round of the National U19 Championship was played in five cities - Karachi, Faisalabad, Gujranwala, Sialkot and Sargodha from 29 September to 1 October. The 18 teams involved in the tournament have been sorted in three groups. After the third round, Karachi U19 Whites are leading Group A after going unbeaten in the three matches played so far. For Group B, Peshawar U19 have secured the top spot, owing to a better NRR compared to Rawalpindi and Multan. Bahawalpur U19 are the most successful side in Group C, after winning two out of their three played games.

Group A

Karachi Whites stand at the top of the table for group A, after the completion of third round matches. They have attained the top spot after defeating Hyderabad in the third round contest being played at the UBL Sports Complex in Karachi. Karachi Whites, who won the game by an innings and 120 runs, succeeded on the back of centuries by Haroon Arshad (133, 146b, 19x4s, 2x6s) and Mirza Saad Baig (125, 128b, 13x4s, 3x6s). In the bowling department, Syed Tayyab Hussain and Abdul Moeez each bagged a four-wicket-haul in the first innings. Tayyab and Naveed Khan grabbed five wickets apiece in the second innings. Hyderabad, after the defeat, have been relegated to fifth position on the table.

AJK, who are only second to Karachi on the points table, defeated Quetta at the Oval Ground, Karachi, who have consequently dropped to the last position on the table. AJK’s victory came courtesy of half-centuries produced by Jahanzaib Ali Kiani (52, 66b, 7x4s) and Ali Abbas Khan (52, 89b, 7x4s, 1x6s) in the last innings. A century scored in the first innings by Quetta opening batter Ikram Ullah Khan Tareen (100, 125b, 11x4s, 3x6s) went in vain. Murtaza Ur Rehman’s five-wicket-haul and Azan Kabir’s four-wicket-haul greatly helped AJK’s cause as they won the game by six wickets.

Faisalabad are third on the table despite losing their last match against FATA, who now stand at the fourth position. In the match being played at the KCCA ground in Karachi, FATA’s Jamshed Ali, scoring 61 in 87 balls and hitting seven boundaries, was the highest scorer of the game, in a low-scoring game where none of the innings totals crossed 160. Mohammad Tahir, getting three wickets each in two innings, was the pick of the bowlers for FATA. Faisalabad’s Mohammad Usman hit an unbeaten half-century (60 not out, 127b, 6x4s) as FATA won by five wickets.

Group B

Peshawar currently top the points table for in group B at the conclusion of third round matches. Peshawar secured a win by an innings and 156 runs against Larkana at the Iqbal Stadium in Faisalabad, on the back ofMohammad Zubair scoring 166 runs from 225 balls, including 12 boundaries. Najab Khan, who scored an unbeaten century (117 not out, 133b, 7x4s, 5x6s), was the second highest contributor with the bat. Ahmed Hussain – grabbing four wickets in the first innings and three wickets in the third – was the pick of the bowlers for Peshawar. Following this defeat, Larkana have dropped to the bottom of the table.

Rawalpindi are second on the table after beating Lahore Blues by 60 runs at the Saeed Ajmal Cricket Academy in Faisalabad. The latter have dropped to fifth place, as a result. Shahmeer Ali, who scored 84 runs from 117 balls, was the highest scorer in the game. His innings included eight boundaries and a six. Syed Ali Mehdy Raza grabbed six wickets and Mohammad Ilyas Akram grabbed five wickets, helping keep the Lahore Blues batter on their toes.

Multan and Islamabad are third and fourth on the table respectively, after the former defeated the latter by 96 runs at the Bohranwala Ground in Faisalabad. Half-centuries by Haseeb Nazim (84, 87b, 10x4s, 2x6s) and Rana Adeel Mushtaq (63, 76b, 7x4s, 2x6s) helped Multan secure a victory over Islamabad. Support by bowlers further helped; particularly, Moheer Saeed got six wickets in the last innings and three wickets earlier in the game.

Group C

Bahawalpur, after defeating Lahore Whites by an innings and 11 runs at the Rana Naveed Cricket Academy in Sheikhupura, reign on top of the table for group C. Hamza Nawaz’s century (127, 115b, 16x4s, 5x6s) helped the side greatly, taking them to a comfortable position. Mohammad Huzaifa registered a six-wicket-haul in the first innings and Mohammad Faizan registered a five-wicket-haul in the final innings, making the Lahore Whites’ batters struggle further to compete with the score put up by Bahawalpur batters.

After defeating DM Jamali by an innings and 17 runs at the Sports Stadium in Sargodha, Abbottabad have secured the second position on the points table. The century produced by Shahzaib Khan (110, 171b, 13x4s, 1x6) was the highest individual of the game. Razaullah, who took four wickets in the last innings and two wickets in the first innings, was the pick of the bowlers for his side. Khalid Khan’s half-century (72, 145b, 6x4s, 1x6) went in vain as DM Jamali folded for just 53 runs in their second batting innings. They now stand fifth on the table.

Sialkot defeated Karachi Blues by eight wickets at the Jinnah Stadium in Gujranwala. As a result, Sialkot and Karachi Blues occupy the third and fourth places on the table. Sialkot’s Azan Awais who scored (107, 180b, 8x4s, 1x6 and 58 not out, 48b, 5x4s, 1x6) in the match turned out to be the most prolific batter in the game. Ali Raza’s six-fer and Moosa Azeem’s four-fer helped Sialkot keep a rein on the Karachi batters. Hassan Khan’s 98 (259b, 7x4s) went in vain as the side lost the game after being enforced a follow-on.

Fourth round fixtures from 6 to 8 October:

Group A

Karachi Whites U19 v AJK U19 at UBL Sports Complex, Karachi

Faisalabad U19 v Hyderabad U19 at KCCA Stadium, Karachi

Quetta U19 v FATA U19 at Oval Ground, Karachi

Group B

Lahore Blues U19 v Multan U19 at Saeed Ajmal Academy, Faisalabad

Rawalpindi U19 v Larkana U19 at Bohranwala Ground, Faisalabad

Islamabad U19 v Peshawar U19 at Iqbal Stadium, Faisalabad

Group C

Abbottabad v Karachi Blues U19 at Jinnah Stadium, Gujranwala

Lahore Whites U19 v Sialkot U19 at Rana Naved ul Hasan Cricket Academy, Sheikhupura

Bahawalpur U19 v Dera Murad Jamali U19 at Sports Stadium, Sargodha

 

[Bewal Express]

As most of the guys will be around 22, shouldn't it be renamed

 

[hassan918]

As most of the guys will be around 22, shouldn't it be renamed

It is an issue with Pakistan sports in general that we see overage athletes are playing in such tournaments that can't let the deserving athletes to grab the headlines because they are playing against those who are 3-4 years older than them.

 

[FearlessRoar]

10 October 2023

The fourth round of the 18-team National U19 Championship was played in five cities of the country from 6 to 9 October. After the fourth round, Karachi Whites are leading Group A with four wins in as many matches. In Group B, Peshawar occupy the top spot, due to a better NRR than Multan, as the two sides both have two wins each. In Group C, Bahawalpur are reigning at the top of the table after three wins in four games.

Group A

Karachi Whites top the table for group after the fourth round of the National U19 Championship. They defeated AJK by an innings and 70 runs at the United Bank Limited Sports Complex Karachi, owing to an unbeaten double century by Mirza Saad Baig (202 not out, 211b, 19x4s, 6x4s). He was supported by Haroon Arshad (95, 135b, 9x4s) and a brilliant bowling performance by Syed Tayyab Hussain, who gathered eight wickets across the two innings, which included six-fer in the first innings. Despite fighting half-centuries by Ali Abbas Khan (74, 140b, 14x4s) and Husnain Nadeem (54, 94b, 6x4s, 1x6), AJK could not stand their ground in the game. They now sit on the fourth position.

Faisalabad, who occupy the second position at the table, defeated Hyderabad by nine wickets at the Karachi City Cricket Association Ground. Mohammad Areeb Arif (85, 131b, 6x4s) and Mohammad Abubakr Dar (78, 135b, 5x4s, 1x6) helped with the bat. The Faisalabad bowlers produced a collective bowling effort, which enforced a follow-on for Hyderabad after they were bowled out for 96 in the first innings. Ibtisam ul Rehman, who had six wickets across the two innings, was the highest wicket-taker for the side. Syed Yahya Shah (62, 96b, 4x4s) was the highest scorer for Hyderabad in the second innings as they were bundled out for 186 in 57.3 overs. Hyderabad are now placed on the fifth position on the points table.

After defeating Quetta by an innings and 91 runs at the Oval Cricket Ground, FATA take the third position on the table. Quetta are at the very bottom. Shahid Khan (88, 113b, 9x4s, 1x6) and Khubaib Khalil (83, 80b, 15x4s) contributed with the bat as FATA declared their first innings on 347 for nine in 74 overs.

Quetta, in their first innings were dismissed for 111 in 29.4 overs. Khubaib Khalil and Mohammad Tahir bagged four wickets apiece.

After being enforced a follow-on, Quetta were dismissed for 145 in 45.4 overs. Mohammad Tahir, who had four-fer in the first innings, went on to pick another four-wicket haul in the second innings.

Group B

Peshawar stand on top of the table after defeating Islamabad by an innings and 94 runs, at the Iqbal Stadium in Faisalabad. Najab Khan was the highest scorer for Peshawar, getting an undefeated 154 from 197 balls including six boundaries and five maximums. Peshawar declared their first innings on 321 for six in 75 overs in return to Islamabad’s first innings score of 114 in 43.1 overs. Syed Hussain Shah took four wickets for 31 runs, while Ahmad Hussain bagged three wickets for 17 runs.

In their second innings, Islamabad were bowled out for 113 in 37.5 overs. Anees Khan took four wickets for 46, while Ahmad Hussain bagged three wickets for 22. Islamabad have moved to the fifth position after the heavy loss they suffered.

At the Saeed Ajmal International Cricket Academy, Multan won against Lahore Blues by 123 runs. Aqib Asghar had a seven-wicket-haul, making him the pick of the bowlers. Moheer Saeed (75, 117b, 8x4s, 2x6s) and Sameer Minhas (70, 92b, 12x4s, 1x6) were the high scorers for Multan in their first innings score of 325 all out in 72.2 overs.

Saad Nadeem took four wickets for 68 runs in 15 overs. Mohammad Waseem Haider grabbed three wickets for 48 runs.

In return, Lahore Blues’ were dismissed for 233 in 65.2 overs. Captain Obaid Shahid top-scored for his side with a 130-ball 65, hitting seven boundaries.

With a 93-run lead, Multan were bundled out for 155 in 45.4 overs. Opening captain Moheer Saeed top-scored with a 37-ball 47, hitting eight fours and a six.

For Lahore Blues’ Saad Nadeem took six wickets for 67 runs.

Chasing 248 runs to win, Lahore Blues’ were dismissed for 124 in 37.1 overs. Mohammad Aqib Asghar, left-arm orthodox was the most successful bowler, taking seven wickets for 43 in 15.1 overs.

Lahore’s defeat brought the side to last position on the table.

Larkana, despite winning against Rawalpindi by 38 runs at the Bohranwali Ground Faisalabad, occupy the fourth position, behind Rawalpindi who remain at three.

Batting first, Larkana were dismissed for 177 in 39.5 overs. Shahzaib Aziz top-scored with run-a-ball 44, hitting eight fours. Aamir Hassan took four wickets for 61.

In turn, Rawalpindi were bowled out for 150 in 43.5 overs with opening batter Shahmeer Ali top-scoring for his side with a 77-ball 52, hitting eight fours.

Larkana’s Aftab Hussain, Muhammad Mustafa and Saqlain Nawaz bagged three wickets each.

With a 21-run first innings lead, Larkana were dismissed for 101 in 38.1 overs, handing Rawalpindi a 123-run to win the match. Rawalpindi’s Mohammad Ilyas Akram bagged five wickets for 25 runs.

In the run-chase, Rawalpindi were dismissed for 90 in 23 overs. Shahzaib Aziz took six wickets in the second innings for the winning team.

Group C

Bahawalpur defeated DM Jamali by six wickets at Jinnah Stadium, Gujranwala, consequently taking the lead on the points table for the third group. Sameer Akhtar, who scored 63 runs from 113 balls and hit eight boundaries and a maximum, was the highest scorer for Bahawalpur in the match.

DM Jamali were dismissed for 154 in 51.3 overs. Duniya Khan top-scored for side, scoring 54 off 53 balls, smashing seven boundaries. Bahawalpur’s Mohammad Faizan was the most successful bowler taking four wickets for 35.

In turn, Bahawalpur took a 40-run first innings lead as the side were bowled out for 194 in 68.1 overs. DM Jamali’s Muzamil Ali took four wickets.

In the third innings of the match, DM Jamali were dismissed for 157 in 51.4 overs, handing a 118-run target for Bahawalpur to win.

Mohammad Huzaifa, who bagged three wickets in the first innings, went on to pick six wickets in the second innings and ended-up with match figures of nine wickets for 71 runs.across the two innings. Two half-centuries by Duniya Khan (54, 53b, 7x4s and 52, 68b, 7x4s) went in vain as DM Jamali could not get over the line. They occupy the fifth position on the table.

In reply, Bahawalpur chased down the target in the 43rd over with six wickets in hand. Sameer Akhtar top-scored for his side, scoring a 113-ball 63, which included eight fours and a six.

At CSS Cricket Ground Sialkot, Abbottabad defeated Karachi Blues by an innings and 53 runs, taking them to the second spot on the table. Karachi Blues occupy the fourth position.

In reply to Karachi’s first innings score of 193 all out, Abbottabad’s Shahzaib Khan (123, 164b, 16x4s, 6x6s) was the top-scorer in the game, followed by Shujah Zaheer who scored 83 from 98 balls including 10 fours – both in Abbottabad first innings score of 339 for nine declared in 73.1 overs.

In turn, Abbottabad’s Aftab Ahmed registered a five-fer in the second innings to dismiss Karachi Blues for 93 in 22 overs. . Zaeem Rizvi (68 not out, 104b, 11x4s) was the highest scorer for the losing side.

Sialkot inflicted a 10-wicket defeat over Lahore Whites at the Rana Naveed Academy Sheikhupura. Subsequently, Lahore remain at the bottom of the table while Sialkot sit on the third sport. Mohammad Tayab Arif scored a century (115, 156b, 17x4s, 1x6). He was supported by Moosa Azeem (60, 79b, 5x4s). Ahmed Hassan and Mohammad Shaban registered four-fers while Ali Raza got a six-wicket-haul. Solid knocks by Ali Hasan Baloch (93, 174b, 13x4s, 1x6) and Hafiz Usman Nadeem (90, 132b, 11x4s, 1x6) did not amount to much for Lahore, as Sialkot won the game comfortably.

The next round of games are set to commence on 13 October. The fixtures are as follows:

Group A

Faisalabad v Karachi Whites at Oval Ground Karachi

Quetta v Hyderabad at United Bank Limited Sports Complex Karachi

FATA v AJK at Karachi City Cricket Association Ground

Group B

Lahore Blues v Islamabad at Iqbal Stadium Faisalabad

Rawalpindi v Peshawar at Bohranwali Faisalabad

Multan v Larkana at Saeed Ajmal International Cricket Ground Faisalabad

Group C

Lahore Whites v DM Jamali at Jinnah Stadium Gujranwala

Bahawalpur v Karachi Blues at Sports StadiumSargodha

Abbottabad v Sialkot at Rana Naveed Academy Sheikhupura

 

[FearlessRoar]

The fifth round of the 18-team National U19 Championship 2023-24 was played in five cities of the country from 13 to 15 October. After the fifth round, Karachi Whites are comfortably on top of Group A with five wins in as many matches. In Group B, Peshawar reign at the top spot, due to a better NRR than Multan as the two sides both have three wins each. Owing to their four wins in five games, Bahawalpur remain the most successful side in Group C. Consequently, the three sides have qualified for the triangular stage of the championship, which will be played at Rana Naveed Stadium Sheikhupura, starting 29 October.

Group A

Karachi Whites top the table for group A after the fifth round of the National U19 Championship. They defeated third-placed Faisalabad by six wickets at Oval Ground, Karachi, owing to twin half-centuries by Haroon Arshad (70, 106, 11x4s and 78, 119b, 11x4s).

Faisalabad scored 123 runs in 36.1 overs in the first innings, largely limited by Baseer Shah’s six-fer in the innings. Karachi Whites responded with 219 runs scored in 64.3 overs. Haseeb Zafar grabbed a four-wicket-haul for Faisalabad in the innings.

Faisalabad then bettered on their efforts and posted 242 on the board after batting for 69.3 overs as Mohammad Abubakar Dar (59, 89b, 9x4s) scored a fighting half-century and Karachi’s Fahad Ameen grabbed four wickets. Karachi Whites chased the target in 44.3 overs; scoring 148 at the loss of six wickets only.

FATA, who occupy the second position at the table, drew their match against the fifth-placed AJK at the Karachi City Cricket Association Ground. Jamshed Ali (105, 163b, 9x4s and 106, 122b, 9x4s) was the star performer, producing two centuries in the game.

Batting first, FATA posted 216 in 66 overs in the first innings; Murtaza ur Rehman returned with four wickets for AJK. In turn, AJK was dismissed cheaply for 135 runs in 64.3 overs with Abdullah Riaz’s undefeated half century (52 not out, 156b, 5x4s) remaining the highest score of the innings.

FATA then declared after mounting 294 runs in 68.4 overs, at the loss of seven wickets. Shahid Khan (49, 32b, 2x4s, 3x4s) and Khubaib Khalil (43, 63b, 2x4s, 1x6) complemented Haroon’s efforts while Ali Ishfaq returned with four wickets. AJK scored 151 in 70 overs and lost three wickets in the innings and the game was drawn.

At the United Bank Limited Sports Complex, Hyderabad defeated Quetta by nine wickets. The two sides occupy the third and the last place on the table respectively. Openers Syed Yahya Shah (103, 87b, 19x4s, 1x6 and 88 not out, 79b, 13x4s, 1x6s) and Zain ul Abidin (107, 125b, 13x4s, 3x6s and 41, 60b, 4x4s) dominated with the bat, ensuring that Hyderabad secure a win over Quetta.

Sumair Ahmed’s (84, 160b, 10x4s) efforts took Quetta to 193 in 70 overs as Sheeraz Khan grabbed four wickets in the innings. Hyderabad then replied by posting 368 in 74 overs; Sheeraz scored a half-century (68, 72b, 8x4s, 2x6s) after contributing with the ball in the first innings.

Quetta bettered on their first batting attempt by scoring 320 in 95.5 overs – Ikramullah Khan Tareen scored a century (120, 128b, 19x4s, 1x6) and Mohammad Siddiq scored a half-century (86, 166b, 10x4, 2x6s) while Mohammad Shaheer got four wickets to his name. Hyderabad chased the target in just 26.1 overs, scoring 148 at the loss of just one wicket.

Group B

Peshawar stand on top of the table after defeating Rawalpindi by an innings and 17 runs, at the Bohranwali Ground in Faisalabad. Rawalpindi stand second on the table. Mohammad Zulkifal (133, 149b, 14x4s, 4x6s) and Afkar Durani (113, 143b, 17x4s, 2x6s) were the high scorers for Peshawar.

In the first innings, Rawalpindi were bowled out for 156 runs in 53 overs; Mohammad Arshad got a half-century (55, 63b, 7x4s, 1x6) while Anees Khan grabbed a four-wicket-haul. Peshawar responded by posting 371 runs in 73.5 overs.

Rawalpindi began their second batting attempt trailing by 215 runs; the side could only get to 198 runs in 52.3 overs before getting dismissed. Syed Ali Mehdy Raza produced a fighting half-century, scoring 51 runs in 87 balls, including seven boundaries and a six. Shahab bagged a five-wicket-haul and Anees Khan once again returned with four wickets.

At the Saeed Ajmal International Cricket Academy, Multan won against Larkana by 83 runs. Taha Shabbir (71 not out, 105b, 11x4s) helped take Multan to 251 in 65.3 overs in the first innings. In response, Larkana posted 193 in 57.5 overs; Shahzaib Aziz (77, 108b, 12x4s) and Anees Ahmed (55, 109b, 9x4s) shined with the bat and Mohammad Shahzad’s four-fer made him the pick of the bowlers.

Then, Multan declared their innings at 192 for seven on the board after batting for 50 overs; Haseeb Nazim’s (78, 107b, 12x4s, 1x6) was the highest score of the innings. Mohammad Shan, who got a six-fer in the last innings, was the hero for Multan as he helped bowl out Larkana for just 168 in 47.2 overs. Mohammad Hanan’s (50, 69b, 6x4s, 1x6) went in vain. Consequently, Multan and Larkana occupy the second and fourth spots on the table respectively.

Third-placed Islamabad defeated last-placed Lahore Blues by an innings and 69 runs at Iqbal Stadium, Faisalabad. Owing to magnificent batting by Raja Hamza Waheed (152, 167b, 17x4s, 4x6s), Shamyl Hussain (92, 105b, 10x4s, 3x6s) and Marwan (53, 82b,6x4s), Islamabad posted a mammoth 371 for nine in 75 overs, after which they declared the innings.

In turn, Lahore were bowled out for a measly 139 in 49.2 overs. Asim Nasir returned with six wickets as none of the Lahore batters survived on the creased long enough to make an impact. Mohammad Waseem Haider (39 not out, 28b, 4x4s, 1x6) was the highest scorer in the innings. Therein, a follow-on was enforced, with the side trailing by 232 runs. In their second batting attempt, Lahore managed 163 runs in 64.3 overs. Ali Zoraiz Asif’s half-century (62, 145b, 5x4s) was the only redeeming knock in the otherwise forgetful outing for the Lahore Blues, who end the championship without a single win to their name.

Group C

Bahawalpur defeated Karachi Blues Jamali by six wickets at Sports Stadium, Sargodha. Haseeb Ahmed (152, 145b, 20x4s, 2x6s) and Riyan Jibran (114 not out, 131b, 12x4s, 2x6s) were the top run-getters for the side as they secured a win to continue their dominance at the top of the table.

In the first innings, Karachi scored 237 in 72.1 overs on the back of Hassan Khan’s century (117, 185b, 15x4s, 2x6s). He was supported by Fawwad Shah (45, 77b, 5x4s). In response, Bahawalpur secured a massive first innings lead of 150 runs by declaring at 387 for four, which were scored in 75 overs.

Karachi Blues scored 157 in 53.5 overs, barely recovering the deficit. Hamza Qureshi (63, 160b, 5x4s) top-scored for the side while Mohammad Faizan, who got a five-fer to his name, was the pick of the bowlers in the innings. Bahawalpur chased the target in 0.4 overs.

After Abbottabad and Sialkot drew their match at the Rana Naveed Cricket Academy in Sheikhupura, they occupy the second and third spots on the table respectively. Sialkot declared after scoring 376 for eight in 75 overs; Mohammad Tayyab Arif (92, 111b, 13x4s, 1x6), Ahmed Hassan (67, 58b, 7x4s, 2x6s) and Moosa Azeem (65, 109b, 7x4s) contributed heftily with the bat. In response, Abbottabad scored 217 in 67.2 overs before getting dismissed. Adnan Saeed (49, 101b, 4x4s) was the top scorer in the innings.

In their second batting attempt, Sialkot scored 212 runs at the loss of seven wickets in 49.3 overs before they declared. Moosa (59 not out, 74b, 3x4s, 1x6) scored his second half-century in the game. In the last innings, Abbottabad scored seven runs at the loss of one wicket in the two overs they batted for, before the game was drawn.

At Jinnah Stadium Gujranwala, the match between Lahore Whites and Dera Murad Jamali was also drawn. Lahore were dismissed cheaply for 116 runs from 38.2 overs in the first innings. Zohaib Khan and Bakhtiyar Khan got three wickets each while Abubakr Waqas (37 not out, 30b, 2x4s, 3x6s) was the top-run getter of the innings. DM Jamali replied by posting 202 runs in 55.5 overs; Mohammad Yousaf (89, 140b, 11x4s, 2x6s) and Khalid Khan (54, 74b, 4x4s, 3x6s) were the notable performers with the bat, while Ubaid Shah, who got a five-fer, was the pick of the bowlers.

Lahore bettered significantly in their second batting attempt; they posted 224 for two in 85 overs. Waleed Zahid Bajwa (74 not out, 242, 2x4s, 1x6) and Ali Hasan Baloch (51, 104b, 3x4s, 2x6s) both registered half-centuries. The match was drawn with no definitive result on the cards. Lahore Whites end the season at the bottom of the table while DM Jamali occupy the fifth spot, with neither of the two getting a win during the championship.

The top-ranked side in each group has advanced to the triangular stage of championship. The first game of the triangular stage is set to commence on 29 October when Peshawar and Bahawalpur will be facing each other at the Rana Naveed Stadium, Sheikhupura.

 

[FearlessRoar]

The fifth round of the 18-team National U19 Cup was scheduled to be played in five cities - Karachi, Faisalabad, Gujranwala, Sialkot and Sargodha on 17 October. Following the completion of the fifth round, Karachi Whites continue their reign over group A, with four wins in five games. All six games for group B and group C were abandoned due to weather. As a result, owing to a better NRR than Multan, Rawalpindi remain securely placed at the first position on the table. Abbottabad, undefeated in the tournament, comfortably sit on top of Group C. Consequently, Karachi Whites, Rawalpindi and Abbottabad march ahead to the triangular stage of the Cup, which is scheduled for 20 to 24 October.

Group A

Karachi Whites, after defeating Faisalabad by 15 runs at Oval Ground in Karachi, finished the fifth round at top of the table. Karachi Whites posted 228 for nine in the first innings. Saad Khan, who produced a magnificent century (101, 154b, 11x4s), was the standout batter for his side. Hassan Ali Shoukat grabbed four wickets. In return, Karachi bowled out Faisalabad for 213 runs in 45.4 overs. Fahad Ameen bagged three wickets while Saif Ameen and Haroon Arshad got two apiece. Nabeel Rafiq’s (76, 107b, 5x4s, 2x6s) fighting knock went in vain, as the side failed to chase the target. Following the defeat, Faisalabad ended at third position.

FATA, who are second on the table, won by seven wickets against AJK at KCCA Stadium, Karachi. AJK, who sit on the last spot, were dismissed for a measly 117 in 39.5 overs. Shahid Khan registered a five-fer and Mohammad Tahir got three wickets to his name as the AJK batters failed to ground themselves on the crease. Ali Abbas Khan (27, 55b, 1x4) was the top-scorer for the side. FATA chased the target easily, in just 21.2 overs, losing three wickets in the process. Khubaib Khalil, who produced an undefeated half-century (50 not out, 56b, 5x4s) was the highest scorer in the game.

Hyderabad defeated Quetta by six wickets at the UBL Sports Complex in Karachi. Quetta could only make 124 runs in 32.3 overs before getting bowled out. Ikramullah Khan Tareen scored 25 runs from 36 balls and hit five boundaries and was the top-scorer for the side. Gul Mohammad, Sheeraz Khan and Mohammad Ahsan grabbed two wickets apiece. Hyderabad chased the target in just 20.5 overs. Sheeraz (53 not out, 52b, 8x4s, 1x6) was the most prominent batter in the game. Following the fifth round, Hyderabad and Quetta occupy the fourth and fifth positions respectively.

Group B

Owing to weather-depleted conditions at Iqbal Stadium, Bohranwali Ground and Saeed Ajmal International Cricket Academy in Faisalabad, all three games for Group B were abandoned. Consequently, Rawalpindi top the table with three wins in five games. Multan, with as many wins as Rawalpindi, sit on the second spot, owing to difference in NRR. Lahore Blues occupy the third spot. Larkana, Peshawar and Islamabad sit at the fourth, fifth and sixth positions on the table respectively.

Group C

Weather conditions disallowed play at Jinnah Stadium in Gujranwala, Sports Stadium in Sargodha and Rana Naveed Cricket Academy in Sheikhupura. As a result, Abbottabad continued to occupy the top spot, remaining undefeated in the tournament thus far. Sialkot and Bahawalpur finish on second and third positions. Lahore Whites sit on the fourth spot and DM Jamali ended at the fifth position. Karachi Blues finished last on the table.

Karachi Whites, Rawalpindi and Abbottabad will now play one another at the triangular stage of the cup. The three matches are scheduled for 20, 22 and 24 October at Iqbal Stadium Faisalabad. Following the triangular stage, the top two teams will play the final on 26 October at Iqbal Stadium.

 

[Hassan A]

Lahore, 25 October 2023: Karachi Whites and Rawalpindi have qualified for the National U19 Cup after emerging on top at the end of the triangular stage of the tournament, which was played from 20 to 24 October at the Lahore Country Club, Muridke. The final will be played on 26 October at the same venue.

Owing to two wins in as many matches, Karachi Whites reigned at top of the table after the triangular stage. Rawalpindi, with one win in two games, secured the second spot. Abbottabad, after losing both its matches, failed to obtain a berth in the final.

Abbottabad U19 v Rawalpindi U19 at Lahore Country Club, Muridke:

Rawalpindi’s decision to bowl first worked in their favor as they defeated Abbottabad by eight wickets in the first match of the triangular stage of the National U19 Cup. Abbottabad scored 162 in 36.1 overs in the first innings. Mohammad Ismail (61, 71b, 6x4s, 1x6) and Raza Ullah (46, 46b, 2x4s, 3x6s) were the major contributors with the bat in an innings that saw the Rawalpindi bowlers dominate. Saad Masood and Bilal Ahmed returned with three wickets each, while Usman Khan and Mohammad Umar Habib picked up two wickets apiece.

Rawalpindi chased the target with significant ease. They took only 30 overs to get over the line and emerged victorious with eight wickets to spare. Half-centuries by Shahmeer Ali (64, 80b, 3x4s, 1x6) and Mohammad Arshad (51, 44b, 4x4s, 1x6) helped Rawalpindi’s cause. Salaar Ahmed and Mohammad Salman picked up a wicket each.

Karachi Whites U19 v Rawalpindi U19 at Lahore Country Club, Muridke:

The second match of the triangular stage was won by Karachi Whites, who inflicted a seven-wicket defeat over Rawalpindi in a low-scoring game. After winning the toss, Karachi Whites bowled out Rawalpindi for a measly 97 in just 18.1 overs. Sheraz Khan, who made 24 off 28 balls including one boundary, was the highest scorer in the innings. Saif Yameen registered a four-fer, Mohammad Fahad Ameen picked up a three-wicket-haul and Abdul Moiz returned with two scalps.

Karachi Whites, in turn, took only 17.1 overs to get to 98 for the loss of three wickets. Karachi Whites captain Wahaj Riaz’s knock proved to be the difference in the game; he remained unbeaten, hitting 46 runs in 37 balls, including eight boundaries. Saad Khan (22, 26b, 3x4s) was the second-best scorer for his side. Saad Masood grabbed two wickets while Mohammad Umar Habib got a wicket to his name as well.

Karachi Whites U19 v Abbottabad U19 at Lahore Country Club, Muridke:

Karachi Whites defeated Abbottabad by 14 runs in the third match of the triangular stage. Banking on their decision to bat first, Karachi Whites put up a solid total of 201 in the first innings. Saad Khan (46, 76b, 5x4s) and Adam Essa bin Rather (31, 47b, 3x4s) were the top run-getters for the side. Mohammad Ayyaz returned with three scalps, while Salaar Ahmed and Mohammad Salman got two wickets apiece as Karachi Whites were bowled out for 201 in 49.3 overs.

Fighting knocks by Shujah Zaheer (49, 73b, 6x4s) and Hasan Nawaz (48, 42b, 4x4s, 2x6s) went in vain as Abbottabad were dismissed for 187 in 40.4 overs. Syed Tayyab Hussain registered a four-wicket-haul. He was supported by Mohammad Fahad Ameen and Baseer Shah, who both picked up two wickets each.

National U19 Cup 2023-24 final:

26 October 2023 – Karachi Whites U19 vs Rawalpindi at Lahore Country Club, Muridke

 

[FearlessRoar]

Karachi Whites U19 clinched the title after winning with a win over Rawalpindi U19 in the final of the National U19 Cup 2023-24, which was played at the Lahore Country Club, Muridke. Rawalpindi’s decision to bat first backfired as Karachi Whites got to the target of 236 in 48 overs, with three wickets to spare.

Mohammad Shahriyar was the highest scorer for the side, scoring a match-winning half-century (57, 102b, 6x4s). Adam Essa Bin Rather (28, 47b, 2x4s) and Syed Tayyab Hussain (26, 29b, 2x4s) were the other contributors with the bat.

Saad Masood, Mohammad Umar Habib and Aamir Hasan returned with two wickets each, in an attempt to restrict Karachi Whites in their chase. However, the target was achieved comfortably, with two overs left.

Earlier, Rawalpindi U19’s Shahmeer Ali produced a solid knock of 65 from 96 balls, including one maximum and four boundaries. He was supported by Aamir Hassan, who scored an undefeated half-century (56 not out, 36b, 4x4s, 4x6s). Affan Ishaq, who also remained unbeaten, contributed with a crucial 36, coming from 43 balls, and included a four and a six.

Two wickets came from Tayyab’s bowling and one wicket was taken by Abdul Moiz as Rawalpindi U19 got to 235 for six in 50 overs.

Scores in brief

Karachi U19 beat Rawalpindi U19 by three wickets (12 balls remaining)

Rawalpindi U19 235-6, 50 overs (Shahmeer Ali 65, Aamir Hassan 56 not out, Affan Ishaq 36 not out; Syed Tayyab Hussain 2-54, Abdul Moiz 1-35)

Karachi Whites U19 236-7, 48 overs (Mohammad Shahriyar 57, Adam Essa Bin Rather 28, Syed Tayyab Hussain 26; Saad Masood 2-31, Mohammad Umar Habib 2-45, Aamir Hasan 2-54)

 

[FearlessRoar]

Rain disallows play on opening day of National U19 Championship final.

Rain played spoilsport as no action could take place on the first day of the National U19 Championship final, being played between Karachi Whites U19 and Peshawar U19 from 10 to 13 November at the Rana Naveed Cricket Academy, Sheikhupura.

The two sides qualified for the final of the championship after topping the triangular stage of the tournament. While all three games in the triangular stage resulted in draws, Peshawar U19, led by wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Zulkifal, secured the top position after gaining first-innings lead in both their games.

Karachi Whites U19 had a first-innings lead against Bahawalpur U19, which edged the Mirza Saad Baig-led team into the second spot on the points table, while the latter missed out a berth in the final.

As weather conditions failed to improve, play for the day was called off at 1610 PKT with the toss yet to be conducted.

 

[FearlessRoar]

Karachi Whites U19 were invited to bat first by Peshawar U19, who won the toss on the second day of the match after rain disallowed play on the first day of the National U19 Championship final at the Rana Naveed Cricket Academy Sheikhupura.

After batting through the day, they got to 333-9 declared in 75 overs. Peshawar U19, in return, managed to get to 36-2 in 13 overs before stumps.

Saad Baig and Wahaj Riaz gave Karachi Whites U19 a well-cushioned start to the innings, stitching a partnership of 176 runs. Wahaj fell to Mohammad Irfan after scoring 85 from 128, including eight boundaries and a six. In Irfan’s subsequent over, Saad was dismissed for 96 (94b, 10x4s, 2x6s), falling four short of his century.

Jawad Ali took the third wicket for Peshawar, as Haroon Arshad was caught behind for 31 from 52, including three boundaries. With a 80-run-stand between them, Ali Hassan (57, 101b, 3x4s, 2x6s) and Mohammad Shahriyar (44, 52b, 4x4s, 2x6s) brought the game back in Karachi’s control.

Once this partnership was broken, the rest of the batters could not get into double figures, with Karachi Whites declaring the innings at 333-9 after batting 75 overs. Ahmed Hussain was the pick of the bowlers for Peshawar, registering a five-wicket haul.

In response, Peshawar U19 scored 36 in 13 overs, losing two wickets in the process. Both the wickets came courtesy of Mohammad Fahad Amin. Mohammad Junaid (22 not out, 36b, 3x4s) was the top scorer for Peshawar.

Scores in brief

Karachi Whites 333-9, 75 overs (Mirza Saad Baig 96, Wahaj Riaz 85, Ali Hassan 57; Ahmed Hussain 5-61, Mohammad Irfan 2-59)

Peshawar U19 36-2, 13 overs (Mohammad Junaid 22 not out; Mohammad Fahad Amin 2-16)

 

[FearlessRoar]

Peshawar U19 were dismissed for 220 in 60.1 on the third day of the National U19 Championship final at the Rana Naveed Cricket Academy Sheikhupura. Following which, Karachi Whites, in their second batting attempt, got to 88-5 in 31 overs after declaring at 333-9 in 75 overs the previous day.

Resuming from their overnight score of 36-2 in 13 overs, Peshawar U19 added 184 more to the total. The majority of the runs came from Najab Khan’s bat, who fell just four short of a century. He hit a valiant 96 from 113, including six boundaries and a maximum Anees Khan (28, 61b), Mohammad Junaid (27, 41b, 4x4s) and Mohammad Irfan (26, 62b, 4x4s) also contributed with some crucial runs.

Mohammad Fahad Amin was the pick of the bowlers, returning with a five-wicket haul. Abdul Moiz also grabbed three wickets.

Karachi Whites U19 responded with 88-5 in 31 overs. Skipper Saad Baig was the top scorer, with 29 off 36 including three fours. Ali Hassan (26 not out, 55b, 2x4s) remained unbeaten at stumps. Right-arm pacer Mohammad Shoaib Afridi was the most successful bowler of the innings as he claimed two wickets at the expense of just five runs. His fellow right-arm pacer Jawad Ali also got two wickets to his name.

Scores in brief

Karachi Whites 333-9, 75 overs (Saad Baig 96, Wahaj Riaz 85, Ali Hassan 57; Ahmed Hussain 5-61, Mohammad Irfan 2-59) and 88-5, 31 overs (Mirza Saad Baig 29, Ali Hassan 26 not out; Mohammad Shoaib Afridi 2-5, Jawad Ali 2-35)

Peshawar U19 220 all out, 60.1 overs (Najab Khan 96, Anees Khan 28, Mohammad Junaid 27, Mohammad Irfan 26; Mohammad Fahad Amin 5-50, Abdul Moiz 3-38)

 

[Hassan A]

Lahore, 13 November 2023: Peshawar U19 emerged on top after defeating Karachi Whites U19 by one wicket in a thriller to clinch the National U19 Championship. While chasing the target of 278 on the last day, impressive batting by Afkar Durani, Najab Khan and Ahmed Hussain allowed Peshawar U19 to take the ascendancy in the four-day National U19 Championship final held at Rana Naved ul Hasan Cricket Academy, Sheikhupura.

Karachi Whites U19 resumed their innings on day four from 88-5 in 31 overs. After batting for a further 24.2 overs, they were dismissed for 164. Ali Hassan (46, 111b, 3x4s) was the highest scorer of the innings. He was followed by Mohammad Fahad Amin, who hit 38 from 52, including six boundaries.

Mohammad Shoaib Afridi registered a four-wicket haul to help restrict the Karachi Whites U19 batters. His efforts were complemented by Mohammad Irfan and Jawad Ali, both of whom grabbed two wickets each.

Peshawar U19’s chase was driven by Afkar Durani (75, 107b, 5x4s, 1x6), who provided a solid foundation. Najab Khan (41, 44b, 2x4s, 1x6) and Ahmad Hussain (44, 55b, 2x4s) were the other contributors with the bat. Despite losing successive wickets, Peshawar U19 were able to get over the line with just a wicket to spare in the 55th over.

Naveed Ahmed Khan and Syed Tayyab Hussain took two wickets each while Mohammad Fahad Amin and Baseer Shah returned with one scalp each, as the Karachi Whites bowlers attempted to derail the chase.

Najab Khan was named player of the final for his 96 in the first innings followed by 41 in the second innings. Karachi Whites U19 captain Saad Baig took home the best wicket-keeper, best batter and player of the tournament awards for his tally of 750 runs and 27 dismissals behind the stumps in the season. Karachi Whites off-spinner Naveed Ahmed Khan was declared best bowler of the tournament for picking up 40 wickets.

Scores in brief

Peshawar U19 beat Karachi Whites U19 by one wicket

Karachi Whites 333-9, 75 overs (Saad Baig 96, Wahaj Riaz 85, Ali Hassan 57; Ahmed Hussain 5-61, Mohammad Irfan 2-59) and 164 all out, 55.2 overs (Ali Hassan 46, Mohammad Fahad Amin 38; Mohammad Shoaib Afridi 4-27, Mohammad Irfan 2-4, Jawad Ali 2-46)

Peshawar U19 220 all out, 60.1 overs (Najab Khan 96, Anees Khan 28, Mohammad Junaid 27, Mohammad Irfan 26; Mohammad Fahad Amin 5-50, Abdul Moiz 3-38) and 278-9, 54.3 overs (Afkar Durani 75, Ahmad Hussain 44, Najab Khan 41; Syed Tayyab Hussain 2-44, Naveed Ahmed Khan 2-55)

Player of the final – Najab Khan (Peshawar U19)

 

[The Bald Eagle]

Glimpses of young lads from Pakistan U19 squad doing training in afternoon session.

 

[Muhammad Saad]

PCB should pay these guys playing in U13 , U16 and U19 national tournaments atleast between 50k-100k monthly for all age groups , U13 player should get monthly 50k , U16 75k and U19 100k , this way younger generations will actually starts taking cricket as a profession and will Line up for local club registration in order to get selected in these youth tournaments.

 

[BouncerGuy]

PCB issues show-cause notices to Tauseef, Qaiser

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) domestic cricket department has decided to issue show-cause notices to former Test bowler and ex-member of the national selection committee Tauseef Ahmad, and Qaiser Abbas, a coach of the Islamabad Cricket Region and a former international cricketer. They are being reprimanded for not fully adhering to the new policy of including some U-19 players in the Challenge Cup Tournament, designated for seniors and commencing from April 15.

Sources informed Dawn that Khurram Niazi, the department head, expressed dissatisfaction when Tauseef, acting as selector, omitted U-19 players from the Rawalpindi and Islamabad regional cricket teams for the aforementioned Challenge Cup.

Qaiser, serving as the coach of the Islamabad Region, also contested the PCB’s directive. Sources revealed that Qaiser argued with the domestic department, contending that it was unfair to integrate U-19 players into the senior team, given that junior players were scheduled to participate in a separate U-19 district tournament starting from May 10. However, Khurram disagreed and instructed his subordinate to issue show cause notices to both Tauseef and Qaiser Abbas.

In response, Tauseef, in his written reply, contested Khurram’s decision, asserting that he had not been informed of the directive to include U-19 players when he was finalizing the teams. Tauseef is no longer a member of the national selection committee since the appointment of the new PCB chairman, Mohsin Naqvi, who established a seven-member national selection committee.

Additionally, it has come to light that Wajahat Ullah Wasti, a former national selector, also selected some regional teams and clashed with the domestic department over other issues, although he is not currently serving as a selector. Furthermore, Zahoor Elahi, a former Test cricketer, and member of the PCB coaches’ panel, incurred Khurram’s displeasure for failing to attend a scheduled Zoom meeting organised by Khurram online from Saudi Arabia the other day.

The primary objection raised by coaches and selectors regarding the inclusion of U-19 players stems from the concern that it would be a futile exercise. They argue that since the Challenge Cup essentially serves as a trial to select teams for the senior district cricket tournament, wherein no U-19 player is eligible to participate (as they are slated to play separately in the U-19 tournament starting from May 10), U-19 players included in the Challenge Cup teams are merely taking the place of deserving over-19 players.

Meanwhile, it has been learned that although regional cricket associations had requested the domestic department to postpone the start of the Challenge Cup from April 15 to April 20 due to the challenges of preparing the grounds after a five-day holiday period (three for Eid-ul-Fitr and two weekly offs) ending on April 14, the PCB domestic department disregarded these requests, and the tournament will proceed as scheduled from April 15.

SOURCEAWN