Pakistan’s Under-19 cricket team begin their tri-series campaign in Harare today, facing Afghanistan in a tournament seen as a crucial step in their preparations for next month’s ICC Under-19 World Cup.
The 50-over series also includes hosts Zimbabwe, with each team playing the others twice before the final on 6 January. All three sides are using the competition to fine-tune their squads ahead of the World Cup, which Zimbabwe and Namibia will co-host.
Pakistan arrived in Zimbabwe in a confident mood after winning the ACC Men’s Under-19 Asia Cup earlier this month. They claimed the title in Dubai with a dominant 191-run victory over India in the final, underlining their strength in the youth game.
The Harare tri-series gives Pakistan at least four competitive matches, starting at Harare Sports Club on Saturday. For the players, it is a chance to settle combinations, adjust to local conditions and build match sharpness.
Captain Farhan Yousaf said the Asia Cup win had lifted the team’s confidence but stressed the importance of staying focused.
“The Asia Cup was a good win for us, and the players showed great morale and intensity,” Yousaf said, according to the Pakistan Cricket Board. “This tri-series is very important and will help us find the right combinations ahead of the World Cup.”
Pakistan will face Zimbabwe on 29 December, then meet Afghanistan again on 2 January. They will then play the hosts for a second time on 4 January. Matches are being played at Harare Sports Club, Prince Edward School and Sunrise Sports Club.
The tournament is regarded as an ideal warm-up for the Under-19 World Cup, which runs from 15 January to 6 February. Pakistan have been placed in Group C and will play all their group-stage matches in Harare.
Yousaf said the local conditions would be familiar and helpful for the squad.
“The conditions here are similar and will benefit our World Cup preparations,” he said. “Both teams in the tri-series are strong and competitive, and we respect every opponent.”
Pakistan open their World Cup campaign against England on 16 January, before matches against Scotland and Zimbabwe. The Super Six stage begins on 25 January, with the final scheduled for 6 February at Harare Sports Club.
