Dubai, The ACC Men’s U19 Asia Cup 2023 has reached an exciting phase as Pakistan U19 gears up to battle UAE U19 in the semi-final. The match is scheduled for December 15, 2023, at the ICC Academy Ground in Dubai, promising to be a high-stakes contest.

According to Pakistan Cricket Board, Pakistan U19 has demonstrated impressive form in Group A, remaining undefeated in their group-stage matches. Their journey to the semi-final has been marked by exceptional performances, including Mohammad Zeeshan’s player of the match award against Nepal U19, where he claimed six wickets for 19 runs and added 20 runs off eight balls. Against India U19, Azan Awais shone with an unbeaten 105 off 130 balls, guiding Pakistan to an eight-wicket victory. Shamyl Hussain also earned the player of the match title against Afghanistan, scoring 75 runs off 54 balls and taking one wicket for eight runs, leading to an 83-run triumph.

UAE U19, as the hosts and competitors in Group B alongside teams like Bangladesh, Japan, and Sri Lanka, have also shown strong form in the tournament. The last encounter between Pakistan U19 and UAE U19 in 2021 at the ICC Academy Ground saw Pakistan emerge victorious by 21 runs, with Qasim Akram being named the player of the match.

Pakistan captain Saad Baig expressed confidence in his team’s abilities, stating, “We have done well in all three games played so far. However, this achievement is not our ultimate goal. Our aim is to win the U19 Asia Cup. We consistently strive to deliver on the big stage, as shown by our performances in the last three games.” He also emphasized the team’s focus on continuous improvement and learning from each match.

The semi-final clash between Pakistan U19 and UAE U19 is anticipated to be a gripping encounter, as both teams vie for a place in the final of the prestigious ACC Men’s U19 Asia Cup. Fans can follow the action live-streamed on the ACC’s YouTube channel, with match reports and action pictures provided by the PCB.