LAHORE: Pakistan Men’s U19 positioned themselves perfectly to mount a challenge for the ICC Men’s U19 Cricket World Cup with a commanding nine-wicket victory over Zimbabwe Men’s U19 in the tri-series final in Harare on Tuesday.

A four-wicket haul by fast bowler Umar Zaib helped dismiss Zimbabwe for 158 in 44.4 overs, before Sameer Minhas stroked a second successive century in a tournament final to help Pakistan cruise to victory in just 16.2 overs.

Pakistan will now turn their attention to the ICC Men’s U19 Cricket World Cup, which begins on 15 January, where they will attempt to reclaim the title they last won in 2006. Sarfaraz Ahmed, captain of that 2006-winning side, is the manager and mentor of the current squad, which will play all its group matches in Harare.

Umar justified captain Farhan Yousuf’s decision to field first by returning figures of 7-2-20-4 as Zimbabwe struggled. The hosts had plummeted to 48 for six before No.6 batter Michael Blignaut rescued them with 60 from 102 balls, including eight fours. No.9 batter Tatenda Chimugoro contributed 28.

In reply, Sameer Minhas made short work of the target, scoring a blistering 51-ball 114 with 17 fours and five sixes. Sameer, who also scored a big century against India in the ACC Men’s U19 Asia Cup final last month, dominated a 145-run opening partnership with Mohammad Shayan, who finished not out on 38.

In the World Cup, Pakistan will open their campaign against England on 16 January, followed by group matches against Scotland (19 Jan) and Zimbabwe (22 Jan).

Scores in brief

FINAL – Pakistan Men’s U19 beat Zimbabwe Men’s U19 by nine wickets, Old Hararians

Zimbabwe 158, 44.4 overs (Michael Blignaut 60, Tatenda Chimugoro 28; Umar Zaib 4-20, Abdul Subhan 2-25)

Pakistan 160-1, 16.2 overs (Sameer Minhas 114, Mohammad Shayan 38 not out)