Under-19 World Cup: England set Pakistan 211-run target in Harare clash
Cricket
England were bowled out for 210 as Pakistan set a 211-run chase in their Under-19 World Cup match in Harare.
HARARE (Dunya News) – England set Pakistan a target of 211 runs after being bowled out for 210 in 46.5 overs during their Under-19 World Cup match in Harare on Friday.
Pakistan Under-19 captain Farhan Yousaf won the toss and elected to field, citing favourable conditions and familiarity with the pitch gained from playing a tri-series at the venue ahead of the tournament.
England’s innings was anchored by Caleb Falconer, who top-scored with 66 runs. He provided stability after early setbacks but was eventually dismissed when wicketkeeper Hamza Zahoor completed a catch off Ali Raza. Ben Dawkins contributed 33 runs, while Ralphie Albert added 25. Ben Mayes scored 20, Thomas Rew made 14, Farhan Ahmed added 15, and Joe Moores was dismissed for seven.
Pakistan’s bowlers maintained consistent pressure throughout the innings. Ahmed Hussain led the attack with three wickets, making key breakthroughs during the middle overs. Ali Raza, Abdul Subhan, and Momin Qamar claimed two wickets each, restricting England’s progress and preventing a late surge.
Ali Raza struck early to remove opener Joe Moores, bowling a good-length delivery that found the edge and was safely taken by Zahoor behind the stumps. Leg-spinner Ahmed Hussain then turned the momentum decisively in Pakistan’s favour by dismissing Dawkins, who was caught brilliantly by Farhan Yousaf at covers. Hussain followed up by having Mayes caught by substitute fielder Ali Hasan Baloch, leaving England three wickets down.
Earlier, Farhan Yousaf explained the decision to bowl first, stating that the team assessed the conditions before opting to field. He added that participating in the tri-series at the same venue had helped the squad understand the pitch and playing environment better ahead of the World Cup fixture.
England’s captain said his side entered the match with confidence after winning both warm-up games. He also confirmed that England selected two specialist spinners in their playing eleven, reflecting the conditions in Harare.
Pakistan will now look to build a composed run chase as they pursue the 211-run target in their opening match of the tournament.
