Zimbabwe Advances After Pakistan’s Unusual Pursuit in U19 World Cup Thriller

On Thursday, Pakistan’s unusual strategy during their run chase against Zimbabwe became the focal point of the ICC Under-19 World Cup 2026. Chasing a target of 129, Pakistan appeared to be in control at 84 for two in 14 overs. However, they slowed their pace and completed the chase in 26.2 overs. If they had finished within 25.2 overs, Scotland would have advanced to the Super Six stage instead of Zimbabwe. This deliberate slowdown ensured Zimbabwe’s progression at Scotland’s expense. The result, however, gave Pakistan a notable boost in their Net Run Rate due to the tournament’s format.

As per the tournament rules, teams carry forward points and Net Run Rate from the group phase to the Super Six, but only from matches against other teams that qualify. By aiding Zimbabwe’s qualification, Pakistan enhanced its Net Run Rate, as their win over Zimbabwe, with 142 balls to spare, was significantly more decisive than their victory over Scotland, which was achieved with 41 balls to spare.

Pakistan’s run chase was spearheaded by opener Sameer Minhas, who scored an unbeaten 74. Ali Raza impressed with the ball, taking 3/16 in eight overs as Zimbabwe was dismissed for 128 in 35.5 overs.

This victory secured Pakistan a second-place finish in Group C, with two wins out of three matches. England topped the group, winning all three of their games. Zimbabwe, with a single point, finished third, while Scotland ended at the bottom, failing to reach the Super Sixes.

Elsewhere, the West Indies concluded their group stage with a 55-run win over South Africa in a low-scoring match. Zachary Carter led the scoring with 114, helping the Windies to a total of 234 in 47.5 overs. JJ Basson was outstanding with the ball, claiming 5/23 in 10 overs, but his efforts were in vain as South Africa was dismissed for 179, with Jason Rowles’ 46 being the only significant contribution. South Africa came third in Group D after two defeats, having lost to Afghanistan earlier. The West Indies secured second place with two wins, while Afghanistan led the group with three victories going into the Super Sixes.

In Group A, Ireland secured their spot in the Super Sixes with a four-wicket victory over Japan. Freddie Ogilby and Sebastian Dijkstra both scored half-centuries, successfully chasing down the 248-run target with two overs to spare. Japan, having posted a competitive 247 for nine in 50 overs, saw decent contributions, including Charlie Hara-Hinze’s 57. However, they couldn’t prevent Ireland from achieving the target comfortably. Ireland finished third in Group A with one win from three matches, while Japan, winless after three games, did not proceed to the next round.

Match Scores:

• West Indies 234 in 47.5 overs (Zachary Carter 114, JJ Basson 5/23) defeated South Africa 179 in 37.4 overs (Jason Rowles 46, Shaquan Belle 6/40).
• Japan 247/9 in 50 overs (Charlie Hara-Hinze 57, Gabriel Hara-Hinze 44, Oliver Riley 3/52, Adam Leckey 3/44) lost to Ireland 251/6 in 48 overs (Freddie Ogilby 73, Sebastian Dijkstra 55).
• Zimbabwe 128 in 35.5 overs (Nathaniel Hlabangana 59, Ali Raza 3/16) lost to Pakistan 132/2 in 26.2 overs (Sameer Minhas 74 not out).

Published on January 22, 2026.