Pakistan Under-19 Blunder as England Secures Memorable Win

Harare, January 17, 2026: In a remarkable turn of events at the Under-19 World Cup 2026, Pakistan’s last-wicket dismissal left fans stunned and amused alike. England defeated Pakistan by 37 runs in their opening match of the tournament held in Harare, Zimbabwe.

Winning the toss, England chose to bat first and posted a total of 210 all out in 46.5 overs. Middle-order batsman Caleb Falkner was the star for England, scoring 66 runs off 73 balls, including 3 boundaries and 2 sixes. Pakistan’s bowlers Ahmed Hussain (3 wickets for 38 runs), Ali Raza (2 wickets for 36 runs), Abdul Subhan (2 wickets for 24 runs), and Momin Qamar (2 wickets for 45 runs) fought hard but couldn’t prevent England from setting a competitive total.

Chasing 211, Pakistan began well, with captain Farhan Yusuf contributing a resilient 65-run innings. However, after Yusuf’s dismissal in the 41st over, the momentum shifted in England’s favor. The final pair, Momin Qamar and Ali Raza, tried to salvage the innings, but a bizarre moment in the 47th over led to Pakistan’s downfall.

Ali Raza, without attempting a run, stepped out of his crease to avoid the ball, forgetting that he was outside the safe zone. England captain and wicketkeeper Thomas Reeve quickly dislodged the bails, resulting in a comical yet crucial run-out. Replays clearly showed Raza well beyond the crease, making it one of the most unusual dismissals in recent Under-19 cricket history.

England wrapped up Pakistan’s innings at 173 in 46.3 overs, securing a memorable victory. England will face Zimbabwe on January 18, while Pakistan is set to play against Scotland on January 19.