Pakistan Claims U19 Asia Cup Title with Dominant Victory Over India

In a remarkable turn of events, Pakistan's U19 cricket team defeated India by 191 runs in the Asia Cup 2025 final, showcasing their dominance. Sameer Minhas's record-breaking 172 runs led the charge, while captain Farhan Yousaf praised the team's resilience. The victory has reignited discussions about Sarfaraz Ahmed's potential role as a mentor for the senior team ahead of the T20 World Cup 2026. A passionate fan's viral appeal for Sarfaraz's appointment has further fueled this conversation, making it a hot topic in Pakistan cricket.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 22, 2025, 10:59 IST

Pakistan's Triumph in U19 Asia Cup Final

In a stunning display, Pakistan triumphed over India by 191 runs in the final of the U19 Asia Cup 2025, shocking the defending champions. India entered the match undefeated, having previously beaten Pakistan in the group stage, but the Green Shirts showcased their superiority when it mattered most.

This outcome brought back memories of India's defeat in the 2017 ICC Champions Trophy final, where Sarfaraz Ahmed's Pakistan team outplayed Virat Kohli's squad. Sarfaraz, now serving as a mentor for the junior team, has sparked discussions about his potential appointment as mentor for the senior national team ahead of the T20 World Cup 2026.

After losing the toss, Pakistan opted to bat first and amassed an impressive total of 347-8. Sameer Minhas was the standout performer, scoring 172 runs—the highest ever in a Youth Asia Cup final—effectively dismantling India's bowling lineup. Faced with scoreboard pressure, India faltered, finishing at 156 all out, highlighting Pakistan's dominance in the match.

Captain Farhan Yousaf praised the management and support staff for maintaining high morale following their earlier defeat to India in the group stage. "We were pleased to lose the toss; our strategy was to bat first. Sameer Minhas excelled in the last two matches. We are not disappointed; 348 is a great total. The team performed collectively, and we are very happy. The management kept our spirits high after the loss to India," Yousaf stated post-victory.

This victory not only earned accolades for the players but also enhanced Sarfaraz Ahmed's reputation within Pakistan cricket. Known for leading Pakistan to the 2017 Champions Trophy win and previously guiding the U19 team to victory over India in the 2004 World Cup final, Sarfaraz's mentoring skills have gained renewed attention.

Pakistan's coaching structure has often seen frequent changes, with many appointments being short-lived. However, the success of the junior team has ignited discussions about stability and the possibility of promoting Sarfaraz to a senior role. His presence is seen as a stabilizing force, capable of bridging the gap between youth and senior cricket.

After Pakistan's impressive 191-run victory over India in the U19 Asia Cup final, a fan urged PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi to appoint Sarfaraz Ahmed as the senior team mentor ahead of the T20 World Cup 2026. Sarfaraz, who led Pakistan to the 2017 Champions Trophy, is currently serving as the U19 mentor. Credits: @saudjarwar1… pic.twitter.com/bv0NYg58Kl

Following the win, a video circulated on social media featuring an enthusiastic fan appealing to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi to make Sarfaraz the mentor for the upcoming T20 World Cup. The fan humorously stated, "Sarfaraz kabhi dhoka nahi deta" ("Sarfaraz never lets you down"), referencing a popular line from the Bollywood film PK. The fan continued, "He won you the Champions Trophy in 2017. Today, we secured another title. Please appoint him as the mentor for the T20 World Cup (2026)." This clip gained significant traction online, amplifying calls for Sarfaraz's inclusion in Pakistan's senior coaching setup.