India Clinches Thrilling U19 Asia Cup Title with Last-Wicket Victory Over Pakistan
Historic Win for India's U19 Cricket Team
New Delhi, November 14: The Indian Under-19 cricket team celebrated a remarkable victory against Pakistan, winning the 2026 Men's U19 Asia Cup by just one wicket in a nail-biting final held on Saturday.
President Droupadi Murmu commended the young athletes for their outstanding performance in this closely fought match, expressing her hopes for their future successes.
In a message shared on X, she stated, “Heartfelt congratulations to Team India for their triumph in the Men’s U19 Asia Cup. The team showcased remarkable skill, determination, and composure throughout the match. Wishing our young champions continued success.”
Vice President CP Radhakrishnan also extended his congratulations, calling the final a thrilling spectacle.
“Congratulations to the Indian Under-19 Cricket Team on their exciting victory in the final and for winning the Men’s U19 Asia Cup 2026. Best wishes to the entire team for future achievements,” he posted.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah praised the team's resilience, stating that their performance would motivate aspiring cricketers nationwide.
“What a thrilling victory! Kudos to the Indian cricket team for winning the Men’s U19 Asia Cup title, bringing joy and pride to the nation. Your grit, determination, and sportsmanship were exemplary, inspiring future generations of cricketers,” Shah wrote.
Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya also congratulated the team on their continental success, stating, “Asia champions, India! Heartfelt congratulations on this historic win for the U19 team.”
The final took place at the Al Amerat Cricket Ground in Oman, where India successfully chased down Pakistan's challenging target of 338, finishing at 339/9 in a thrilling last over.
Pakistan, batting first, scored 337/9 in their allotted 50 overs, with Usman Khan contributing a solid 107 runs off 111 balls, and Abdul Qadir adding 80 runs off 54 balls. Captain Farhan Yousaf also played a key role with 63 runs off 60 balls.
For India, Kavya Patel was the standout bowler, taking four wickets for 68 runs, while Chigurupati Venkata secured three wickets.
In the chase, captain Lakshya Rajesh Raichandani led the batting with 80 runs off 101 balls, while Aaryavir Sehwag scored 58 runs off 61 balls. Manal Chauhan contributed 47 runs off 32 balls, and Mohit Ulva played a crucial role with an unbeaten 49 runs off just 26 balls, hitting five fours and three sixes.
Chigurupati Venkata remained not out on 11 runs off eight balls as India completed the remarkable chase.
This victory marks India's ninth title in the tournament, reinforcing its status as the most successful team in U19 Asia Cup history. The last time India won was in 2021, defeating Sri Lanka in the final held in the UAE.