Pakistan rout Kenya by eight wickets

Karachi, Jan 12: Pakistan sent an early warning to the Youth World Cup contenders when they routed Kenya for 66 to win their Group C opener by eight wickets at the Dimbula Cricket Club ground, Radella, in Colombo on Wednesday.

Kenya's innings lasted just 25 overs. Pakistan raced to victory in 15.5 overs losing two wickets. All the Pakistan bowlers had a good work out. Paceman Zahid Saeed, however, was the pick of bowlers with three for 15. His new ball partner Irfan Fazil bagged two for 17. Yasir Arafat snapped up two for 11.

Right-arm wrist spinner Danish Kaneria, who will have a big role to play in future games, claimed two wickets for 11 runs. Despite a good performance, Pakistan conceded 32 extras which must be a concern for the team management. The extras included 13 no-balls and seven wides. Despite giving away so many extras, Pakistan didn't concede a single boundary.

After extras, Kenya skipper Mohammad Sheikh was the second major contributor with 25 not out. His 59-ball innings was void was any boundary.

In Pakistan's reply, Ashar Zaidi remained unbeaten on 27. He faced 44 balls and hit three fours and a six. Test batsman Imran Nazir chipped in with 26 off 44 balls with four fours.