In a dramatic conclusion to the Youth Test match held at Arundel Castle Cricket Club Ground, England Under-19 triumphed over Pakistan Under-19 by a mere 10 runs. The match, which took place on Saturday, showcased a thrilling contest that saw Pakistan come tantalizingly close to victory while chasing a target of 262 runs.
Pakistan's innings began on a shaky note, with the team struggling at 60 for three. However, a remarkable partnership between Abdul Qadir and captain Farhan Yousaf revitalized their hopes. The duo forged a formidable fourth-wicket partnership worth 124 runs, bringing the team back into contention. Qadir emerged as the standout performer, scoring a brisk 80 runs off just 87 balls, including eight boundaries and a six. Farhan supported him well with a steady 47 runs from 77 balls, guiding Pakistan to a promising position at 184 for three.
Despite their strong recovery, England's bowlers were determined to turn the tide. The hosts managed to break the crucial partnership by dismissing both Farhan and Qadir in quick succession, which instigated a collapse in the Pakistan batting order. Although Hamza Zahoor contributed 22 runs, it was Hasnain Abbas Dar who kept the visitors' hopes alive with a gritty 35. As Pakistan approached the target, they reached 249 for eight, needing just 13 runs for victory. However, England's bowlers proved too strong, claiming the last two wickets and sealing a dramatic win as Pakistan was bowled out for 251.
Ralphie Albert emerged as England's hero with the ball, taking six wickets for 68 runs in Pakistan's second innings. Jack Nelson also played a pivotal role, claiming four wickets for 36 runs. Earlier in the match, England had set the stage for their victory by scoring 333 in their first innings, led by Leo Selvey-Clinton's impressive century of 107 runs. Isaac Mohammed and Albert also made valuable contributions with the bat, scoring 46 and 40 runs, respectively.
Pakistan, in response, managed to post 305 runs in their first innings, with Qadir being the top scorer at 66 runs. Hasnain Abbas Dar and Ahmed Hussain also chipped in with scores of 57 and 35, respectively. England's Manny Lumsden was the standout bowler in that innings, taking five wickets for 52 runs, while Albert added three wickets to his tally.
This closely contested match highlighted the competitive spirit of both teams and showcased the talents of emerging young cricketers. With England ultimately prevailing after a valiant effort from Pakistan, the focus now shifts to the upcoming four-match 50-over series, which is set to commence on September 9.
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