Shahzaib Khan Smashes Record-Breaking 159 Against India U19 in ACC U19 Asia Cup 2024
New Delhi: Pakistan’s Shahzaib Khan has etched his name into the record books with a stunning 159-run performance against India U19 in the ongoing ACC U19 Asia Cup 2024. His remarkable knock not only powered Pakistan U19 to a competitive total of 281/7 in their 50 overs but also set several new records, including the highest individual score ever against India U19.
Shahzaib’s 159 runs off 147 balls surpassed the previous record of 134 runs by compatriot Sami Aslam, set in 2012. This historic innings places Shahzaib alongside cricketing greats who have scored memorable centuries against India U19, such as Colin Ackermann’s unbeaten 129* (113 balls) for South Africa in 2009 and Kadeer Ali’s 125 (122 balls) for England in 2002.
Highest Individual Scores Against India U19:
- Shahzaib Khan (Pakistan): 159 runs off 147 balls (2024)
- Sami Aslam (Pakistan): 134 runs off 124 balls (2012)
- Colin Ackermann (South Africa): 129* runs off 113 balls (2009)
- Kadeer Ali (England): 125 runs off 122 balls (2002)
Shahzaib’s innings was a masterclass of controlled aggression, as he blasted 10 sixes—setting a new record for the most sixes in an innings by a Pakistan U19 batter in Youth ODIs. The previous record of seven sixes was held by Kamran Ghulam. His innings also included five boundaries, giving him a strike rate of 108.16, demonstrating his power-hitting prowess.
After Pakistan U19 chose to bat first, Shahzaib’s partnership with opener Usman Khan (60 off 94 balls) proved to be pivotal. Despite wickets falling at the other end, Shahzaib accelerated in the middle overs, leading his team to a solid total of 281/7.
India U19’s bowling attack struggled to contain Shahzaib, with pacers Samarth Nagaraj (3/45) and Ayush Mhatre (2/30) being the standout bowlers.
This remarkable knock cements Shahzaib Khan as one of the most exciting young talents in world cricket, with his 159-run effort not only rewriting the record books but also showcasing his ability to perform under pressure, particularly against a strong Indian U19 team.
