England U-19 secured a dramatic two-run victory over Pakistan in the third Youth ODI at Sir Paul Getty’s Ground in Wormsley on Monday, preventing their opponents from taking an unassailable 3-0 lead in the four-match series.
Chasing 303 for victory, Pakistan finished just short of the target after completing their 50 overs. The result means England have kept the series alive ahead of the fourth and final match.
Pakistan Stumble Early in Chase
Pakistan struggled during the opening stages of their innings, losing three wickets for 51 runs inside 11 overs. In-form opener Abdul Qadir contributed 26 before departing.
Farhan Yousaf and Ahmed Hussain then attempted to rebuild the innings, but Pakistan captain Yousaf was dismissed for 24. Ahmed added 38 before England claimed another breakthrough with Pakistan on 124-5.
With five wickets down, Pakistan appeared to be facing a difficult task. However, Hamza Zahoor and Hasnain Abbas Dar produced a remarkable sixth-wicket stand that completely changed the momentum of the chase.
Zahoor Leads Pakistan’s Fightback
Zahoor and Dar combined for 154 runs for the sixth wicket, taking Pakistan to the brink of a memorable comeback victory.
Zahoor was particularly aggressive, scoring 86 from 65 deliveries. His innings included six fours and five sixes and gave Pakistan a realistic chance of chasing down England’s total.
England’s bowlers, however, held their composure during the tense closing stages and managed to defend the total by the narrowest of margins.
Jack Auld was England’s standout bowler, claiming three important wickets to help the hosts secure the victory.
Nelson and Lamey Set Up England’s Total
England had earlier posted 302-6 after being asked to bat first.
Jack Nelson led the scoring with 74 from 68 balls, while Theo Lamey made 58. The pair put England in a strong position by adding 120 runs for the fourth wicket.
Their partnership came after England had slipped to 108-3 in the 20th over, providing the foundation for a competitive total.
Robbie Bowman then added late momentum to the innings with an unbeaten 32.
For Pakistan, Rizwanullah was the most successful bowler, finishing with three wickets from his 10 overs.
England’s narrow win has ensured the four-match Youth ODI series will go into its final match with the contest still alive.
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