Pakistan, Jan. 23 -- Pakistan's Under-19s did in Harare what competent sides are meant to do against weaker opposition: keep the game short, keep the chaos out. Zimbabwe were dismissed for 128 in 35.5 overs, with Nathaniel Hlabangana's 59 the only innings of consequence. On the other hand, Pakistan reached 132 for 2 in 26.2 overs, Sameer Minhas carrying it with an unbeaten 74 off 75 balls (six fours, four sixes), supported by Usman Khan (26) and Ahmed Hussain (24). The win was tidy-almost too tidy for meaningful judgment.

That is precisely why it matters. Group-stage efficiency is pleasant, yet Pakistan's real contest is always the one beyond the boundary: what happens to these boys once the applause fades. As usual, the captain has spok...