Usman Khan's 139 helps Pakistan beat UAE by nine wickets in U19 Asia Cup

Defending champions Pakistan began their ACC Men's U19 Asia Cup 2026 campaign with a nine-wicket win over the United Arab Emirates in their Group A opener at the Al Amerat Cricket Ground in Muscat on Friday.

Pakistan captain Farhan Yousaf won the toss and chose to field. Ali Raza removed Omar Tauqir for one run in the third over, and the UAE lost three wickets for 36 runs in the opening stages, according to Minute Mirror.

Yayin Kiran Rai and Zainullah Rehmani then added 62 for the fourth wicket. Hasnain Abbas Dar dismissed Rehmani for 28 off 44 balls, and Rizwanullah removed Rai for 47 off 74 balls, leaving the UAE on 127 for six.

Noorullah Ayobi lifted the total with 70 off 55 balls, which included three fours and six sixes. He was dismissed on the last delivery of the innings as the UAE were bowled out for 224 in 50 overs. Ahmed Khudadad added 16.

Mohammad Sayyam was the best of the Pakistan bowlers with three wickets for 37 runs from his 10 overs. Ali Raza, Rizwanullah and Hasnain Abbas Dar took two wickets each, and Niqab Shafiq took one.

In reply, openers Usman Khan and Jahangir Bilal put on 153 and both made half-centuries. Bilal was dismissed for 60 off 87 balls, including six fours.

Usman Khan stayed unbeaten on 139 off 120 balls, with 21 fours and a six. Daily Pakistan reported it was his fourth century in Youth ODIs. Abdul Qadir was not out on 20 off 19 balls as Pakistan reached the target in 37.3 overs.

Pakistan's next match in the tournament is against India on Sunday.