Pakistan's Under-19 cricket team delivered a commanding performance to secure a massive 191-run victory over arch-rivals India in the final of the Men's U-19 Asia Cup in Dubai on Sunday. Chasing a daunting target of 348, the Indian colts were bundled out for a paltry 156 in just 26.2 overs, handing Pakistan their first outright title in the tournament's history.
Pakistan's Batting Powerhouse: Minhas Steals the Show
Choosing to bowl first after winning the toss, India found themselves on the back foot early as Pakistan opener Sameer Minhas played a sensational innings. The standout performer of the tournament, Minhas hammered a brilliant 172 runs off just 113 deliveries. His explosive knock, decorated with 17 fours and 9 sixes, laid the foundation for Pakistan's imposing total of 347 for 8 in their 50 overs.
This was Minhas' second century of the competition, having previously scored an unbeaten 177 against Malaysia. He brought up his hundred in the final off just 71 balls. His innings was the cornerstone of Pakistan's effort, especially after they had lost a group-stage match to India by 90 runs at the same venue earlier in the tournament.
Indian Chase Falters From the Start
India's chase began with a flicker of hope, gathering 32 runs in the first two overs. However, the innings imploded rapidly thereafter. The top order crumbled under pressure, with openers Ayush Mhatre and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, along with number three batter Aaron George, dismissed cheaply. The team found itself in deep trouble at 49 for 3 in just 4.1 overs.
Wickets continued to fall at regular intervals, with no substantial partnership to mount a fightback. The highest stand of the Indian innings ironically came for the last wicket, as Deepesh Devendran and Kishan Singh added 36 runs off 18 balls. The Pakistani bowling attack maintained relentless pressure with tight lines and disciplined bowling.
Bowling Heroes Seal Historic Win
Fast bowler Ali Raza was the chief destroyer for Pakistan, claiming four crucial wickets, including those of the openers. He was ably supported by Mohammad Sayyam, Abdul Subhan, and Huzaifa Ahsan, who picked up two wickets each. The collective effort ensured India never gained any momentum in their chase.
With this thumping win, Pakistan clinched their first outright Men's U-19 Asia Cup title. Their previous win in 2013 was a shared trophy with India. For his match-winning century and stellar tournament performance, Sameer Minhas was deservedly awarded both the Player-of-the-Match and the Player-of-the-Series accolades.
