India's U19 Team Clinches Thrilling Asia Cup Title Against Pakistan

Gautam Gambhir Celebrates U19 Victory

In a remarkable display of skill and determination, the India Under-19 cricket team triumphed over Pakistan by one wicket in the final of the 2026 Men's U19 Asia Cup, held on Saturday. Gautam Gambhir, the head coach of the senior men's team, took to social media platform X to commend the young players for their fearless attitude and resilience during the intense match.

He expressed his admiration, stating, "Fearless cricket. Unshakable belief. Grit has no batting order!! Champions of Asia! Well done, boys!"

Shyam Sunder Sharma, director of the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA), also praised the team's performance, particularly highlighting young batter Aaryavir Sehwag, the son of former Indian opener Virender Sehwag. Sharma noted Aaryavir's potential and maturity, expressing optimism that these young talents would soon represent the senior national team.

"It’s wonderful to see how hard the boys worked; they secured the win despite it being such a tough match. Aaryavir has immense potential—much like his father. He’s a sensible, mature kid. We hope our boys will soon win the upcoming Under-19 World Cup and eventually play for the senior Indian team. They rely solely on their performance, not on influence," Sharma remarked.

The final match took place at the Al Amerat Cricket Ground in Oman, where India staged a remarkable comeback, successfully chasing down Pakistan's formidable target of 338 runs, finishing at 339/9 in a nail-biting finish.

Pakistan had set a challenging score of 337/9 in their allotted 50 overs, with Usman Khan leading the way with a century, scoring 107 runs off 111 balls. Abdul Qadir contributed significantly with 80 runs from 54 balls, while captain Farhan Yousaf added 63 runs off 60 deliveries.

For India, Kavya Patel was the standout bowler, taking four wickets for 68 runs, while Chigurupati Venkata claimed three wickets.

In the batting department, captain Lakshya Rajesh Raichandani was the top scorer with 80 runs off 101 balls, and Aaryavir Sehwag added 58 runs from 61 balls. Manal Chauhan played a crucial role with a quickfire 47 off 32 balls, and Mohit Ulva's unbeaten 49 off just 26 balls, which included five fours and three sixes, ultimately led India to victory.

Chigurupati Venkata also contributed with an unbeaten 11 runs off eight balls, sealing the win for India.

This victory marks India's ninth U19 Asia Cup title, solidifying their status as the most successful team in the tournament's history. Their last title was secured in 2021 when they defeated Sri Lanka in the UAE.