Afghanistan U19 vs Pakistan U19 – 2nd ODI Match Preview (27 December 2025)

Match Overview

The 2nd ODI of the Zimbabwe U19 TriSeries 2025 promises to be a highly anticipated clash as Afghanistan U19 take on Pakistan U19 at the Harare Sports Club in Harare on Saturday, 27 December 2025, with the toss scheduled to take place at 07:30 GMT. This match is more than just a contest for points; it's a battle between two of the most talented junior teams in the cricketing world, and it's expected to draw a large audience both in the stadium and online.

Fans can catch all the live action on YouTube, with commentary and analysis adding to the excitement of what promises to be a thrilling encounter.

Match Details

Pitch Report

The Harare Sports Club pitch is known for its batting-friendly nature, with consistent bounce and carry, making it a treat for the batters. However, the second-innings dew could assist the bowlers, especially the spinners, in making life difficult for the chasing side.

With an average first-innings score of 219, the teams will need to post a competitive total to defend. The venue has hosted 9 matches so far, with teams batting first winning 56% of the time and those bowling first winning 44%.

Team Form – Last 5 Matches

Both teams come into this match with contrasting recent performances:

Afghanistan U19 have been inconsistent, with a win in their latest match but followed by a string of defeats. Pakistan U19, on the other hand, are in better form, having won three of their last five matches, suggesting they might be the stronger side going into this game.

Head-to-Head in ODIs (ICC U19 World Cup)

The teams have faced each other four times in the ICC U19 World Cup, with Pakistan U19 holding a clear advantage:

Pakistan U19’s historical edge could play a psychological role, but Afghanistan U19 will be eager to prove themselves in this high-stakes TriSeries.

Probable XIs

• Afghanistan U19 (Probable XI):
  Abdul Aziz, Azizullah Mia Khil, Faisal Shinozada, Hafeez Zadran, Khalid Ahmadzai, Khatir Stanikzai, Mahboob Khan, Nazifullah Amiri, Nooristani Omarzai, Osman Sadat, Roohullah Arab

• Pakistan U19 (Probable XI):
  To be announced

Prediction and Key Players to Watch

The toss will be crucial, as the decision to bat or bowl first could tilt the match in either team's favor. Pakistan U19, with their better form and historical record, might go in with a bold batting lineup to set a daunting total. However, Afghanistan U19's spinners and lower-order batters could pose a threat in the second innings, especially with dew on offer.

Key players to watch:

• Afghanistan U19: Hafeez Zadran (batsman), Khalid Ahmadzai (bowler)
• Pakistan U19: To be announced, but likely to include a strong all-rounder and a frontline seamer

Final Verdict

This match is a must-watch for all U19 cricket fans. While Pakistan U19 may have the slight edge based on form and history, Afghanistan U19 are always a tough opponent and capable of springing surprises. The Harare pitch could favor either side depending on the toss and game management. Expect a competitive, high-quality contest with both teams vying for a crucial victory in the TriSeries.

Prediction: Pakistan U19 to win, but it's a tight one with Afghanistan U19 in with a strong chance.
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