Story by Anashe Murombedzi
ZIMBABWE face a daunting task in their final match of the ICC Under-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup following Pakistan’s crucial six-wicket victory over Scotland at Takashinga Cricket Club in Harare this Monday.
The result has complicated the race for a Super 8 place from Group C, which includes Zimbabwe. Pakistan’s victory, their first of the tournament, has significantly boosted their chances of progressing to the next stage.
Chasing 188, Pakistan reached 190 for four in 43 overs, with 41 balls to spare, sealing a comfortable six-wicket win and keeping their qualification hopes firmly alive.
The result has, however, piled pressure on Zimbabwe ahead of their last group match.
The Young Chevrons now face a must-win encounter against Pakistan on Thursday.
Zimbabwe needs a victory against Pakistan with a healthy net run rate to stand any chance of progressing to the Super 8 stage.
They will also be hoping England gets the better of Scotland in the other Group C fixture to keep their qualification hopes alive.
Zimbabwe has a point from an abandoned match against Scotland and an eight-wicket loss to England, who top the group with four points.
In other matches, Sri Lanka thrashed Ireland by 106 runs after posting 267 for five and bowling Ireland out for 161.
South Africa delivered a dominant performance, crushing Tanzania by 329 runs after amassing 397 for five.
Action continues this Tuesday with Bangladesh facing New Zealand at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo, while defending champions Australia take on Japan at the Namibia Cricket Ground in Windhoek.
