Lahore: Pakistan’s U19 cricket team is set to participate in a tri-series against Afghanistan and host nation UAE from November 13 to 26, 2024. This 50-over format competition, taking place just before the ACC Men’s U19 Asia Cup, will feature a double-league format with the top two teams advancing to the final.
According to Pakistan Cricket Board, the series opener will see Pakistan face the UAE, with the venue details to be confirmed later. This tri-series aims to provide the young cricketers with a vital preparatory platform ahead of the U19 Asia Cup, details of which will also be announced by the Asian Cricket Council in due time.
PCB Director International, Usman Wahla, expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming series, noting its significance in fostering young talent and strengthening international cricket relations, particularly with the Emirates Cricket Board. He highlighted the series as an opportunity for emerging players to hone their skills in a competitive setting.
Mudassar Nazar, Director of the National Academy and Head Coach of the UAE Men’s U19 team, remarked on the importance of the series for preparing the teams for the ACC Men’s U19 Asia Cup. He recalled the UAE’s impressive performance in the previous year’s Asia Cup, where they reached the finals, underscoring the series as crucial for the development and grooming of young cricketers.
Naseeb Khan, Chief Executive Officer of the Afghanistan Cricket Board, also shared his optimism about the tri-series. He detailed the rigorous training regimen currently underway for Afghanistan’s U19 team, aimed at preparing them for upcoming tournaments, including the Asia Cup. Khan emphasized that the series would provide essential competitive exposure and experience for the young Afghan cricketers.
The tri-series schedule is as follows:
November 13: Pakistan vs UAE
November 15: Afghanistan vs Pakistan
November 17: UAE vs Afghanistan
November 19: Pakistan vs Afghanistan
November 21: Afghanistan vs UAE
November 23: UAE vs Pakistan
November 26: Final