KEY POINTS
- Afghanistan’s bowlers routed Tanzania for just 85 runs.
- Opener Faisal Khan’s unbeaten 55 off 34 balls powered nine-wicket win in 12.4 overs.
WINDHOEK, Namibia: Afghanistan’s Under-19 cricket team delivered a ruthless, nine-wicket demolition of Tanzania on Wednesday at Windhoek, securing their third consecutive win at the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup and taking sole possession of first place in Group D.
After Tanzania won the toss and chose to bat, the decision quickly backfired against a formidable Afghan bowling unit.
The bowling attack was spearheaded by a magnificent spell from Nasratullah Nooristani, who dismantled the Tanzanian batting lineup with figures of five wickets for just nine runs from his seven overs.
He received ample support from Uzairullah Khan (2/9), Wahidullah Zadran, and Khatir Stanikzai, who all contributed as Tanzania was bundled out for a paltry 85 runs in exactly 50 overs.
Clinical chase seals dominant win
In response, Afghanistan showcased their batting prowess with a chase that was as efficient as it was swift.
Opener Faisal Khan led the charge with an aggressive, unbeaten half-century, smashing 55 runs off just 34 balls.
He was ably supported by Osman Khan (16) as the Afghan colts chased down the modest target in a mere 12.4 overs, finishing at 88 for one and sealing victory with more than 37 overs to spare.
Perfect record
The comprehensive win follows Afghanistan’s earlier triumphs against South Africa and the West Indies, cementing their status as the form team of Group D with an unblemished record.
For his match-defining five-wicket haul, Nasratullah Nooristani was deservedly awarded the Player of the Match trophy.
With the group stage now complete, Afghanistan will advance to the Super Six phase of the tournament full of confidence, having displayed a formidable blend of penetrative bowling and explosive batting that marks them as serious contenders for the championship.
