Pakistan registered a commanding victory in the U19 World Cup win after defeating New Zealand by eight wickets in the Super Sixes clash of the ICC Men’s U19 World Cup 2026 at Harare Sports Club. The Green Shirts comfortably chased down a modest 111 run target in just 17.1 overs, losing only two wickets, with Sameer Minhas delivering a match winning performance.
Chasing the target, openers Hamza Zahoor and Sameer Minhas provided Pakistan with a confident start. The pair attacked early, putting pressure on the New Zealand bowlers through aggressive stroke play. Zahoor’s stay was brief as he was dismissed for eight runs, but Minhas continued to dominate the innings with calm and composure.
Minhas crossed the 50 run mark inside the eighth over, showing excellent shot selection and control. Partnered by Usman Khan, he ensured the chase remained on track. Although Khan fell for 15 runs, the damage had already been done. Pakistan were firmly in control, and the required run rate remained low.
Captain Farhan Yousaf joined Minhas and added useful runs at the end, but it was Minhas who sealed the U19 World Cup win, remaining unbeaten on 76 off 59 balls, an innings that included 10 fours and two sixes. His knock marked his fourth Youth ODI fifty, underlining his consistency at the junior level.
Earlier, Pakistan’s bowlers laid the foundation for victory with a disciplined performance. Ali Raza struck early, while Abdul Subhan led the bowling attack with an impressive spell, finishing with 4 wickets for 11 runs. New Zealand struggled to build partnerships and were bowled out for 110, despite brief resistance from Mason Clarke and Hunter Shore.
Raza supported Subhan well by claiming three wickets, while Mohammad Sayyam and Momin Qamar chipped in with one each. The collective bowling effort ensured Pakistan stayed ahead throughout the contest.
This convincing U19 World Cup win strengthens Pakistan’s position in the Super Sixes stage and highlights the depth of talent emerging in the country’s youth cricket setup.
