Summary Pakistan had defeated India by 191 runs in last season's final to lift the title
(Web Desk) - Pakistan bowled India out for 208 in their second Group A match of the ACC Men's U19 Asia Cup 2026 at the Al Amerat Cricket Ground in Oman on Sunday.
India, who opted to bat after winning the toss, suffered an early setback as Ali Raza struck on the second ball of the opening over, sending captain Lakshya Raichandani back to the pavilion without scoring.
The Indian batting line-up came under further pressure as Raza claimed his second wicket by dismissing VK Vineeth for eight, while Rizwanullah removed Yashbardhan Chauhan for one, leaving India struggling at 22-3.
Niqab Shafiq extended Pakistan's dominance by dismissing Aaryavir Sehwag, who scored 22 off 30 deliveries, including a four and a six.
India continued to lose wickets as Anvay Dravid departed for 10 after sharing a brief partnership with Arjun Rajput. Niqab claimed his second wicket, leaving the visitors at 70-4.
However, Arjun stood firm at one end and brought up his half-century, joining hands with Manal Chauhan to rebuild the innings.
The duo put together a valuable 64-run partnership for the fifth wicket, helping India cross the 150-run mark, with Arjun leading the recovery through an impressive batting display.
Arjun went on to complete his maiden Youth ODI century, but Rizwanullah broke the partnership by dismissing Chauhan for 11.
The Pakistan pacer struck again shortly afterwards, removing the well-set Arjun for 107 off 85 balls. His innings featured 11 boundaries and five sixes, leaving India at 170-7 in 35.2 overs.
Ali Raza returned to claim his third wicket, dismissing Yashveer Goud for four, while Niqab Shafiq completed his three-wicket haul by removing Mohit Ulva, who scored seven.
Mohammad Sayyam then brought India's innings to an end by dismissing Kavya Paresh Patel, who contributed 23 off 45 deliveries, including a boundary.
Ali Raza, Rizwanullah and Niqab Shafiq picked up three wickets each to restrict India to 208.
