Introduction
The 2024 ACC Under-19 Asia Cup concluded on December 8, 2024, with Bangladesh Under-19s emerging as the champions. The tournament, held in the United Arab Emirates, featured eight teams: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Nepal, United Arab Emirates, and Japan. This victory marks Bangladesh’s second consecutive title, having won their maiden championship in 2023 by defeating the United Arab Emirates in the final.
Tournament Overview
The 2024 edition of the ACC Under-19 Asia Cup was structured into two groups:
- Group A: India, Pakistan, United Arab Emirates, Japan
- Group B: Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, Nepal
Each group consisted of four teams, with the top two from each group advancing to the semi-finals. The matches were played in a round-robin format, leading to the knockout stages.
Group Stage Highlights
- Group A:
- India: Dominated the group with comprehensive victories, including a notable 211-run win over Japan.
- Pakistan: Secured their semi-final spot with a decisive 180-run win against Japan. Asian Cricket Council
- Group B:
- Bangladesh: Led the group, showcasing strong performances, including a 45-run win over Afghanistan.
- Sri Lanka: Advanced to the semi-finals, finishing second in the group.
Knockout Stage
- Semi-Finals:
- First Semi-Final: Bangladesh Under-19s defeated Pakistan Under-19s by 7 wickets, chasing down a target of 117 runs. MyKhel
- Second Semi-Final: India Under-19s triumphed over Sri Lanka Under-19s by 7 wickets, successfully chasing a target of 174 runs. ESPN Cricinfo
- Final:
- Bangladesh Under-19s faced India Under-19s in a highly anticipated final. Batting first, Bangladesh set a competitive total, which India fell short of, handing Bangladesh their second consecutive title.
Individual Performances
Throughout the tournament, several players stood out:
- Kalam Siddiki Aleen (Bangladesh): Accumulated 161 runs, playing a pivotal role in his team’s success.
- Azizul Hakim Tamim (Bangladesh): Contributed significantly with the bat, amassing 163 runs.
- Iqbal Hossain Emon (Bangladesh): Impressed with the ball, taking 4 wickets for 24 runs in a match. MyKhel
Impact on UAE Cricket
The United Arab Emirates, as hosts, provided a platform for young cricketers to showcase their talent. While the UAE Under-19 team did not advance past the group stage, the tournament served as valuable experience for the players, contributing to the growth of cricket in the region.
Conclusion
The 2024 ACC Under-19 Asia Cup was a testament to the emerging talent in Asian cricket. Bangladesh’s consecutive victories highlight their dominance in the under-19 category. The tournament not only provided thrilling matches but also offered a glimpse into the future stars of Asian cricket.
