England Under-19s came agonisingly close to one of the biggest wins in their history as Pakistan reached the World Cup final with a thrilling three-wicket triumph.
Facing a side that had beaten them in their last eight one-day international meetings, with the conditions in Dubai favouring their opponents, Will Rhodes’ side put in a valiant display but ultimately came up just short.
From the misery of slipping to one for two after choosing to bat, England were willed up to an eventual total of 204 for seven by their skipper Rhodes.
The Yorkshire all-rounder, following up Ryan Higgins’ 52, hit four fours and a six in a superb 79-ball 76 not out.
Even then, it appeared Pakistan were big favourites – especially after prolific openers Imam-ul-Haq and Sami Aslam put on 41.
A determined England responded outstandingly, though, as an all-round bowling effort left Pakistan 154 for seven.
Yet Zafar Gohar and Amad Butt stepped up when Pakistan needed a hero, ending unbeaten on 37 and 26 respectively to seal a memorable success.
While disappointment will be the overriding emotion from England, they can take heart from an outstanding showing in the tournament.
Their efforts are best summed up by the nature of the two defeats they have suffered, a heartbreaking one-wicket loss to Sri Lanka and today’s.
Full report to follow.