U-19 Cricket World Cup: Young guns set to shine in Nepal vs Pakistan showdown

KATHMANDU: Brace yourselves for a thrilling encounter as Nepal takes on Pakistan in a high-stakes U-19 Cricket World Cup match on Wednesday.

The action unfolds at 1:45 PM at the Buffalo Park Cricket Ground in East London, South Africa.

After a setback against New Zealand, where Nepal faced a 54-run defeat in their opening match, the team is gearing up for redemption against Pakistan before concluding the group stage with a face-off against Afghanistan on January 26.

Pakistan's Rising Stars:

1. Saad Baig (c & wk) - The Young Commander:

At just 17, Saad Baig leads the charge for Pakistan, both as captain and wicketkeeper.

With three half-centuries in his last four innings, Baig thrives under pressure and revels in key moments.

Watch out for his dynamic leadership and all-around skills in the spotlight.

2. Mohammed Zeeshan - Seamer Extraordinaire:

A seamer who emerged from the shadows as a traveling reserve two years ago.

Expected to play a pivotal role in Pakistan's bowling arsenal, adding fire to their attack.

3. Ubaid Shah - Carving His Own Legacy:

The talented brother of Naseem Shah, Ubaid Shah, brings his unique flair to the international stage.

Known for a slightly taller action and the ability to deliver lethal yorker lengths when the stakes are high.

4. Arafat Minhas - Asian Games Trailblazer:

Recognizable from Pakistan's Hangzhou campaign in the Asian Games.

Brings valuable experience to the team, having featured prominently in crucial contests.

Pakistan Squad:

Saad Baig (c & wk), Ali Asfand (vc), Ali Raza, Ahmad Hassan, Amir Hassan, Arafat Minhas, Azan Awais, Haroon Arshad, Khubaib Khalil, Mohammed Zeeshan, Naveed Ahmed Khan, Shahzaib Khan, Shamyl Hussain, Muhammad Riazullah, Ubaid Shah.

Nepal's Emerging Talents:

1. Dev Khanal (c) - Skipper on a Mission:

The skipper, with notable appearances for the Nepali senior team, leads the charge for victory.

Carrying the weight of expectations, Khanal aims to steer the team to triumph.

2. Gulshan Jha - Experience Meets Dynamism:

With experience in the Nepali senior team, Jha adds a touch of dynamism to Nepal's lineup.

Anticipate crucial contributions from this seasoned player.

3. Arjun Kumal - Consistent Performer:

Having showcased impressive knocks in warm-up play and the ACC U19 Asia Cup, Arjun Kumal is one to watch.

Expect him to bring stability and firepower to Nepal's batting order.

4. Durgesh Gupta - Left-Arm Sensation:

A left-arm seamer making waves in junior domestic cricket.

Gupta is poised to play a pivotal role in Nepal's bowling strategy.

Nepal Squad:

Dev Khanal (c), Arjun Kumal, Aakash Tripathi, Dipak Prasad Dumre, Durgesh Gupta, Gulshan Kumar Jha, Dipesh Prasad Kandel, Bishal Bikram KC, Subhash Bhandari, Deepak Bohara, Dipak Bohara, Uttam Rangu Thapa Macar, Bipin Rawal, Tilak Raj Bhandari, Akash Chand.

Get ready for an exhilarating clash between these young cricketing talents as the 15th edition of the U-19 World Cup unfolds in South Africa. The stage is set for a spectacle as Nepal and Pakistan lock horns in pursuit of glory.