Pakistan crush Bangladesh to reach U19 Asia Cup final

Bangladesh's hopes of reaching the final of the ACC Men's Under-19 Asia Cup ended in a one-sided defeat as defending champions Pakistan cruised to a nine-wicket victory in the first semifinal in Oman on Thursday.

A disastrous batting display saw Bangladesh bowled out for just 138 in 31.4 overs after winning the toss and electing to bat at the Al Amerat Cricket Ground. Pakistan then completed the chase in only 21.5 overs, reaching 141 for one to secure their place in Saturday's final.

Fast bowler Rizwanullah was the chief architect of Bangladesh's collapse, claiming five wickets for 30 runs in eight overs. Mohammad Sayyam provided further damage with two wickets for 29 runs as Bangladesh struggled to build partnerships against a disciplined Pakistan attack.

Opener Abdullah Al Muhi offered the only substantial resistance, scoring 50 off 45 deliveries with four fours and two sixes. Rakibul Hossan contributed 26, while All Rafi made 20, but the remaining batters failed to provide meaningful support.

The innings never recovered from the regular loss of wickets, leaving Bangladesh with a below-par total in a crucial knockout encounter.

Pakistan's response was equally emphatic. Openers Hayam Khan and Usman Khan put together a 123-run partnership that effectively ended the contest as a competitive affair.

Hayam top-scored with 69 off 72 balls, hitting eight fours and a six, before falling to Robiul Hasan Anik. Usman remained unbeaten on 64 from 54 deliveries, striking seven fours and two sixes, to guide Pakistan comfortably across the line.

The result extended Pakistan's unbeaten run in the tournament and kept their title defence firmly on course. They had also finished the group stage at the top of Group A with three victories.

For Bangladesh, the semifinal defeat brought an abrupt end to their campaign, with their inability to withstand Pakistan's pace attack proving decisive in the contest.

Pakistan will now face India in the final on November 14.