Zimbabwe Under-19 suffered a sobering defeat at the hands of Pakistan Under-19 in their final run-up to the ICC Under-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup, which will be co-hosted in Zimbabwe and Namibia. With the global tournament now just a week away, the heavy loss will raise concerns within the home camp.
Pakistan won the toss and elected to field, a decision that paid immediate dividends. Zimbabwe’s batting collapsed alarmingly under early pressure, slipping to a disastrous 15 for five as wickets fell in quick succession. The top order struggled to cope with disciplined bowling and movement, leaving the hosts in deep trouble within the opening overs.
Amid the chaos, Michael Blignaut produced a composed and determined innings to rescue some respectability. Showing maturity beyond his years, he anchored the innings with a well-earned 60 from 102 balls, displaying patience and sound technique. Tatenda Chimugoro provided valuable support with a spirited 28 from 39 deliveries, but partnerships remained scarce. Zimbabwe were eventually bowled out for 158 in 44.4 overs, a total that was always going to be difficult to defend.
Pakistan’s response was ruthless. Their batters made light work of the chase, racing to 160 with ease and exposing the gulf between the two sides on the day. Sameer Minhas was the standout performer, blasting an unbeaten 114 from just 51 balls as Pakistan cruised home in emphatic fashion.
While the defeat is a worrying sign so close to the World Cup, there remains a glimmer of hope for Zimbabwe. A recent victory over Afghanistan in the triangular series showed what this young side is capable of, and the focus now shifts to regrouping quickly ahead of the biggest test of their young careers.
