LINCOLN: Pakistan has qualified for the U19 Cricket World Cup after defeating West Indies by four wickets on Monday. The Federal Minister Sports Ejaz Jakhrani and DG Sports Board Amir Hamza Gilani congratulated the team.

Pakistani batsmen completed the target of 213 runs set by West Indian team in 48.3 overs and won the first semi finals of U19 Cricket World Cup taking place in New Zealand.

Pakistani batsman Hammad Azam remained unbeaten with 92 runs and achieved the Man of the Match award for his marvellous batting.

Rameez Aziz and wicketkeeper Muhammad Waqas chipped in with 39 and 29 respectively to steal the result from a West Indies side who also relied heavily on three batsmen in their innings of 212 for eight.

Pakistan won the toss and decided to field first. From the West Indies side, opener Kraigg Brathwaite was run out for a composed 85 while Captain Andre Creary compiled 41 and wicketkeeper Shane Dowrich blasted 59.

Pakistan's final opponents will be determined in the second semifinal between Australia and Sri Lanka on Wednesday.