National U19 Cup: Karachi Whites, Rawalpindi, and Abbottabad advance to triangular stage

In the latest developments of the National U19 Cup, the fifth round witnessed significant outcomes, solidifying the positions of Karachi Whites, Rawalpindi, and Abbottabad at the top of their respective groups. Karachi Whites maintained their dominance in Group A with a victory over Faisalabad, securing four wins in five games. However, weather conditions disrupted all six games in Group B and Group C, leading to abandoned matches. Despite the challenges, Rawalpindi and Abbottabad retained secure positions in their groups.

Group A Highlights:

1. Karachi Whites Triumph: Karachi Whites claimed victory against Faisalabad by 15 runs at Oval Ground in Karachi. A notable century by Saad Khan (101 runs) contributed to Karachi’s total of 228 for nine. Faisalabad’s attempt to chase the target fell short at 213, resulting in Karachi Whites finishing the fifth round at the top of Group A.

2. FATA’s Victory: FATA secured a convincing seven-wicket win against AJK at KCCA Stadium, Karachi. AJK’s batting struggles led to a meager total of 117, and FATA comfortably chased the target in 21.2 overs, with Khubaib Khalil’s unbeaten half-century being the highlight.

3. Hyderabad’s Win: Hyderabad registered a six-wicket victory over Quetta at UBL Sports Complex in Karachi. Quetta’s innings ended at 124, and Hyderabad successfully chased the target in just 20.5 overs, with Sheeraz Khan top-scoring with an unbeaten 53.

Group B and Group C Abandoned:

1. Weather Woes: Unfortunately, all three games in Group B and Group C were abandoned due to adverse weather conditions. This affected Rawalpindi, Multan, Lahore Blues, Abbottabad, Sialkot, and Bahawalpur’s positions on the table.

Triangular Stage Ahead:

1. Top Teams Progress: Despite the weather interruptions, Karachi Whites, Rawalpindi, and Abbottabad secured their positions and will now advance to the triangular stage of the National U19 Cup.

2. Triangular Stage Schedule: The matches for the triangular stage are scheduled for 20, 22, and 24 October at Iqbal Stadium in Faisalabad. Following this stage, the top two teams will compete in the final on 26 October at Iqbal Stadium.

The National U19 Cup continues to showcase young cricket talent, and the upcoming triangular stage promises exciting matches as Karachi Whites, Rawalpindi, and Abbottabad vie for top honors.