Dubai, UAE – The UAE Men’s U19 cricket team achieved a historic victory by defeating former champions Pakistan in the semi-final of the ACC Men’s U19 Asia Cup at the ICC Academy Oval 1, Dubai on Friday. Led by captain Aayan Afzal Khan, the team successfully defended a total of 193, winning by 11 runs.
Aayan Afzal Khan showcased outstanding leadership both with the bat, scoring 55 off 57, and with the ball, delivering an economical 10-over spell, conceding only 33 runs. His stellar all-round performance earned him the well-deserved title of player-of-the-match.
The Emirates Cricket Board, represented by General Secretary Mubashshir Usmani, expressed delight in the team’s sensational performance, hailing it as a historic achievement. Usmani praised the relentless efforts of both players and coaching staff and emphasized the bright future of UAE cricket.
As a gesture of appreciation to the fans, the Emirates Cricket Board announced free entry for spectators at the Dubai International Stadium (DIS) for the tournament final. The UAE U19 team is set to face Bangladesh in the final showdown on Sunday, 17 December.
Usmani extended an invitation to cricket enthusiasts, urging them to come in large numbers to support the young talents who have brought pride to the nation. The final promises to be a thrilling spectacle, showcasing the promising future of cricket in the UAE.