India recorded a dominant 90-run victory over Pakistan in their Group ‘A’ match of the Under-19 Asia Cup at the ICC Academy Ground in Dubai on Sunday.
After rain delayed the start and reduced the match to 49 overs per side, Pakistan captain Farhan Yousaf won the toss and elected to field. India, recovering from early setbacks, were bowled out for 240 in 46.1 overs, with Aaron George anchoring the innings with a resolute 85.
Captain Ayush Mhatre provided early impetus with a brisk 38 off 25 balls before Mohammad Sayyam removed him and Vaibhav Suryavanshi (five) to leave India at 78-2. George then steadied the innings, sharing a 60-run fifth-wicket stand with Abhigyan Kundu (22). Kanishk Chouhan added late momentum with 46 off 46 balls, including three sixes. Abdul Subhan (3-42) and Sayyam (3-67) led Pakistan’s bowling effort, while Niqab Shafiq claimed two wickets.
Pakistan’s chase faltered early as Deepesh Devendran struck three times in the opening spell, reducing them to 30-4. Chouhan dismissed opener Usman Khan (16) before skipper Farhan’s 23 ended with Pakistan struggling at 77-5.
Huzaifa Ahsan offered resistance with a fighting 70 off 83 balls, but received little support. Chouhan finished with three wickets, while Kishan Singh claimed the final two as Pakistan were bowled out for 150 in 41.2 overs. The win lifted India to the top of Group A with two victories from two matches.