Sat Nov 30 15:36:06 UTC 2024: ## India U19 Suffers 43-Run Defeat Against Pakistan in Asia Cup Opener

**Dubai, UAE:** India’s Under-19 cricket team suffered a disappointing 43-run loss to Pakistan in their opening match of the 2024 Asia Cup on Saturday at the Dubai International Stadium. Chasing a challenging 282-run target, India were bowled out for 238 in 48 overs.

Pakistan’s captain, Saad Beg, won the toss and elected to bat first. Their decision proved to be the right one as Shahzaib Khan smashed a magnificent 159 runs (including 10 sixes and 5 fours), leading Pakistan to a strong 281/7. Usman Khan also contributed significantly with a 60-run knock. The pair shared a crucial 160-run partnership for the first wicket. For India, Samarth Nagraj took three wickets.

In response, India’s innings never truly recovered after losing early wickets. Despite a fighting 60 from Nikhil Kumar (6 fours, 3 sixes), the team struggled to build substantial partnerships. The young opener Vaibhav Suryavanshi was dismissed for just 1 run. Ali Raza claimed three wickets for Pakistan, while Abdul Subhan and Farhan ul Haq each took two.

Despite the loss, India will look to bounce back in their next group B match against Japan on Monday, December 2nd in Sharjah. They will then face the UAE on December 4th, also in Sharjah. The top two teams from each group will advance to the semi-finals on December 6th, with the final scheduled for December 8th. This tournament is being played in a 50-over format.

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