The Men's Under-19 World Cup is in full swing, and we have an exciting clash at the Takashinga Sports Club in Harare. Pakistan U19 is set to lock horns with Scotland U19. Pakistan has shown flashes of brilliance recently, including a massive win over India U19, while Scotland will be looking to cause a major upset.
Pitch Report: Takashinga Sports Club
This venue in Harare generally offers a balanced contest between bat and ball. The average score in the last 5 matches is 227, suggesting that 240-250 is a winning total.
Pace vs Spin: The data clearly favors the faster bowlers here. Pacers have picked up 43 wickets compared to just 33 by spinners in recent games. With an early start (09:30 Local), expect the seamers to get some movement upfront. Batters who bide their time can score big later in the innings.
Team Form & Insights
Pakistan U19 (PAK19): Pakistan has had a mixed bag of results (LWWWL) but their ceiling is incredibly high. They recently scored 347 against India U19 and 241 against UAE. However, they are coming off a loss to England where they failed to chase 210. Their bowling attack, led by Abdul Subhan, is their biggest strength.
Scotland U19 (SCO19): Scotland enters this game as the underdog. Their recent form has been shaky, and facing a high quality pace attack like Pakistan's will be a stern test. Fantasy managers should focus heavily on Pakistan's core players and use Scotland players primarily as credit savers or differential picks.
Key Players to Watch
1. Ahmed Hussain (PAK19) This young talent is a fantasy goldmine. He is an all rounder who contributes in both departments. In the recent match against England, he took 3 wickets and previously smashed 65 runs against UAE. His ability to bowl leg breaks and bat in the middle order makes him a top pick.
2. Abdul Subhan (PAK19) If you need a strike bowler, look no further. Subhan has been consistent, picking up 4 wickets against UAE and another 3 wickets against India. On a Takashinga pitch that supports pacers (43 wickets recently), he is a must have.
3. Sameer Minhas (PAK19) Minhas is an explosive batter capable of single handedly winning contests. While he missed out in the last game, do not forget his monster knock of 172 runs (17 fours) against India U19 recently. If he gets going, he creates massive points separation in contests.
4. Farhan Yousaf (PAK19) While others attack, Yousaf provides stability. He was the top scorer against England with a solid 65 runs. He is a technically sound batter who is likely to anchor the innings, ensuring guaranteed fantasy points.
5. Ali Raza (PAK19) Raza supports the bowling attack well. He picked up 2 wickets in the last outing and 4 wickets in the game against India. As a Right Arm Medium Fast bowler, the conditions in Harare suit his style perfectly.
Captain & Vice Captain Picks
Safe Options:
- Ahmed Hussain: High floor due to dual role (Batting + Bowling).
- Abdul Subhan: High wicket taking potential, especially if Pakistan bowls first.
Risky / Grand League Options:
- Sameer Minhas: If he survives the new ball, he can score a century.
- Ram Sharma (SCO19): As an all rounder listed for Scotland, he could be a differential pick if Scotland loses early wickets and he gets time to bat.
Strategy Tip: Since Pakistan is the stronger side, a 7-4 combination favoring PAK19 is the logical route. Load up on Pakistan's top order batters and strike bowlers.