England down Pakistan in Youth Test

Pakistan Under-19 came within touching distance of a remarkable victory before England held their nerve to seal a 10-run win in a thrilling four-day Youth Test at Arundel Castle Cricket Club Ground on Saturday.

Chasing 262 for victory, Pakistan were bowled out for 251 in 62.1 overs after remaining firmly in contention until the final stages of a gripping contest.

The tourists' hopes had appeared to fade early in their chase when they slipped to 60 for three, but Abdul Qadir and captain Farhan Yousaf launched a spirited recovery with a 124-run partnership for the fourth wicket.

Qadir was the driving force behind the fightback, striking eight fours and a six in an aggressive 80 from 87 balls. Farhan provided solid support, scoring 47 from 77 deliveries as the pair carried Pakistan to 184 for three and put them in a strong position to chase down the target.

England, however, refused to let the game slip away.

The hosts broke the partnership by removing Farhan and Qadir in quick succession, triggering another Pakistan wobble. Hamza Zahoor added 22 before Hasnain Abbas Dar kept the visitors' hopes alive with a determined 35.

Pakistan reached 249 for eight, requiring only 13 runs for victory, but England found the final breakthrough. The last two wickets fell with the total on 251, ending Pakistan's resistance and handing England a dramatic 10-run victory.

Ralphie Albert was England's match-winner with six wickets for 68 runs in Pakistan's second innings, while Jack Nelson claimed four for 36.

Earlier, Pakistan's bowlers had given their side an excellent opportunity by dismantling England's second innings. The hosts resumed on 121 for one but were eventually dismissed for 233, losing their final nine wickets for 112 runs.

Ahmed Hussain spearheaded the attack with four for 23, while Mohammad Huzaifa took three for 40 and Mohammad Sayyam claimed two wickets.

England's Leo Selvey-Clinton had earlier struck a century, making 107 in the second innings, while Isaac Mohammed contributed 46 and Albert scored 40.

Pakistan had also made a strong contribution in the first innings, posting 305 in reply to England's 333. Qadir top-scored with 66, Hasnain Abbas Dar made 57 and Ahmed Hussain added 35.

England's Manny Lumsden took five for 52, with Albert claiming three for 58.

The result capped a closely fought match in which both teams had opportunities to take control, with England ultimately prevailing after Pakistan's late charge fell agonisingly short.

The two sides will now turn their attention to a four-match 50-over series, beginning on Sept. 9.