Pakistan Clinches U19 Asia Cup 2025 Title with Dominant Victory Over India

The final of the U19 Asia Cup 2025, held in Dubai, has added a new chapter to the intense rivalry between India and Pakistan in junior cricket. In the championship match on Sunday, the Pakistan U19 team defeated India by a significant margin of 191 runs, celebrating their victory on the field.

Winning the toss, India opted to bowl first, a decision that proved detrimental. According to reports, Pakistan's opener Sameer Minhas exerted pressure on Indian bowlers right from the start. He delivered a remarkable performance, scoring 172 runs off 113 balls, which included 17 fours and 9 sixes. Earlier in the group stage, he had also scored 177 runs, maintaining his form in the final. Thanks to Minhas's innings, Pakistan amassed a formidable total of 347 runs for the loss of 8 wickets in their 50 overs.

It is noteworthy that Indian bowlers received little assistance from the pitch, and their spin attack was ineffective. Although India attempted a comeback during the death overs, Pakistan had already established a strong position by then.

When India began their chase, they faced a disastrous start. The top three batsmen, captain Ayush Mhatre, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, and Aaron George, were dismissed within the first five overs. Reports indicate that the trio of Abdul Subhan, Mohammad Saiyyam, and Ali Raza completely dismantled the Indian batting order. Ultimately, India was bowled out for just 156 runs in 26.2 overs.

Although Deepesh Devendran and a few lower-order batsmen fought hard, the hope for victory had already faded. Consequently, Pakistan secured a resounding 191-run victory, claiming the U19 Asia Cup 2025 title.

After the match, Sameer Minhas was awarded both Player of the Match and Player of the Tournament. During the award ceremony, Mohsin Naqvi, Chairman of the Asian Cricket Council, presented the trophy to the Pakistan team, leading to a jubilant celebration among the players.

Following the defeat, Indian captain Ayush Mhatre stated that the decision to bowl first was made thoughtfully, but it turned out to be an off day for the team. He acknowledged that their bowling line and length could have been better, and Pakistan's batsmen capitalized on the conditions effectively.

It is important to note that India had previously defeated Pakistan in the group stage, but in the final, Pakistan made a remarkable comeback, proving themselves in a high-pressure match. This victory marks Pakistan's second U19 Asia Cup title, boosting the confidence of their young team, while leaving India with valuable lessons for future preparations.