DUBAI (Dunya News) – Pakistan booked its place in the Under-19 Asia Cup 2025 final after defeating Bangladesh by eight wickets in the first semifinal at the ICC Academy Ground in Dubai on Friday.
The victory sets up a high-profile title clash against India, which earlier beat Sri Lanka by eight wickets in the second semifinal.
Chasing a modest target of 121, Pakistan wrapped up the contest comfortably, reaching 122 for two in the 17th over. Opener Sameer Minhas led the charge with a fluent unbeaten 69, anchoring the innings with composure. Usman Khan contributed 27, while Ahmed Hussain added 11 as Pakistan completed the chase with ease.
A masterclass from Sameer Minhas, combined with clinical bowling, has propelled Pakistan U19 into the Grand Finale! #DPWorldMensU19AsiaCup2025 #BANvPAK #ACC pic.twitter.com/Uu7tPQTLMk
— AsianCricketCouncil (@ACCMedia1) December 19, 2025Earlier, Bangladesh struggled after being put in to bat, with the entire side bowled out for 121 in 26.3 overs. Saimun Basir top-scored with 33, while Azizul Hakim made 20 and Rifat Beg added 14. No other batter managed to reach double figures as Pakistan’s bowlers maintained consistent pressure throughout the innings.
Abdul Subhan was the standout performer with the ball for Pakistan, claiming four wickets to dismantle the Bangladesh batting line-up. Khadifa Ahsan picked up two wickets, while Ali Raza, Muhammad Siyam and Ahmed Hussain chipped in with one wicket each. The match was played under revised conditions, with rain forcing the organisers to limit each innings to 27 overs.
In the second semifinal, India confirmed its place in the final with an equally commanding performance against Sri Lanka in another rain-affected match at the same venue. Chasing a target of 139, India cruised to victory with eight wickets in hand, powered by unbeaten half-centuries from Vihaan Malhotra and Aaron George. Malhotra remained not out on 61, guiding the chase with assurance.
Vihaan Malhotra and Aaron George combined to power India into the final of the #DPWorldMensU19AsiaCup2025, where they will face Pakistan on the 21st #INDvSL #ACC pic.twitter.com/ueGyQn2FfD
— AsianCricketCouncil (@ACCMedia1) December 19, 2025The results set up a much-anticipated final between traditional rivals Pakistan and India, scheduled to be played on Sunday at the ICC Academy Ground in Dubai.