Bangladesh U19's Asia Cup campaign in crushing defeat to Pakistan

Bangladesh suffered a crushing nine-wicket defeat to Pakistan in the semifinal of the Under-19 Asia Cup, bringing their campaign to an end at the Al Amerat Cricket Ground in Oman on Thursday.

After winning the toss and electing to bat, Bangladesh were bowled out for 138 in 31.4 overs, with Pakistan's pace attack dismantling their batting line-up. Pakistan comfortably chased down the target, reaching 141-1 in just 21.5 overs.

Bangladesh got off to a disastrous start as Mohammad Sayam removed opener SK Zarif Siyam for 1, with the team's score at just 4. Sayam struck again to dismiss Kawsar Ahmed for nine, leaving Bangladesh struggling at 25-2.

Opener Abdullah Al Muhi provided some resistance, building a partnership with captain Farid Hasan, who contributed 17 runs. Muhi top-scored for Bangladesh with 50 off 45 balls, including four fours and two sixes.

However, Farid's dismissal, followed by Ahsan Al Mumin's departure for 1, put Bangladesh under renewed pressure. Abdullah was dismissed after reaching his half-century, with Bangladesh's score at 98-5.

Al Rafi (20) and Rakibul Hossain (26) attempted to revive the innings, but Pakistan's bowlers continued to dominate. Bangladesh lost their final five wickets for just 27 runs as their innings folded well short of a competitive total.

Right-arm pacer Rizwanullah was the chief destroyer, claiming 5-30 in eight overs. Mohammad Sayam picked up two wickets, while Ali Raza, Hasnain Abbas Dar and Ahmed Hussain took one each.

In reply, Pakistan made a rapid start through openers Usman Khan and Hayam Khan, who put Bangladesh's bowlers under pressure with an aggressive batting display.

Hayam scored 69 off 72 balls, including eight fours and a six, before falling to Rabiul Hasan Anik. However, his dismissal had little impact on the outcome.

Usman remained unbeaten on 64 from 54 deliveries, striking seven fours and two sixes, while Abdul Qadir finished unbeaten on 8 as Pakistan reached the target with nine wickets and 28.1 overs to spare.

The emphatic victory secured Pakistan's place in the U-19 Asia Cup final, while Bangladesh bowed out of the tournament following a disappointing semifinal performance.