Pakistan Crush Malaysia by 297 Runs in U19 Asia Cup Opener

Dubai: Pakistan began their U19 Asia Cup campaign in spectacular fashion, defeating Malaysia by a massive **297-run margin** in their Group A clash.

Chasing a daunting target of **346 runs**, Malaysia crumbled for just **48 runs**, with none of their batters reaching double figures. Captain Diaz Petro and Muhammad Akram top-scored with 9 runs each.

For Pakistan, **Ali Raza** and **Muhammad Siyam** claimed **three wickets each**, while **Daniyal Ali Khan** picked up two and **Naqab Shafiq** took one.

Earlier, after being sent in to bat, Pakistan recovered from the early loss of two wickets thanks to a record-breaking **293-run third-wicket partnership** between **Sameer Minhas** and **Ahmed Hussain**.

Pakistan posted **345/3** in their 50 overs.

* **Sameer Minhas** delivered a breathtaking **177* off 8 sixes and 11 fours**, anchoring the innings.
* **Ahmed Hussain** scored an impressive **132 runs** before being dismissed.
* Captain **Farhan Yousuf** remained unbeaten on 8.

Pakistan will face arch-rivals **India on 14 December** in what promises to be a high-voltage encounter.