The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced its intention to lodge a formal complaint with the International Cricket Council (ICC) regarding the conduct of Indian players during the final of the Under-19 Asia Cup 2025. The confirmation came directly from PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi, who also heads the Asian Cricket Council (ACC).
Historic Victory Marred by Controversy
The final, played on Sunday, culminated in a commanding victory for Pakistan by a massive margin of 191 runs. Batting first, Pakistan set a formidable target, scoring 347 runs for the loss of eight wickets. The innings was highlighted by a historic century from Sameer Minhas. In response, the Indian batting lineup collapsed, being bowled out for a mere 156 runs in 26.2 overs.
This win was particularly significant for Pakistan, marking their first Under-19 Asia Cup title in 13 years and only the second time they have clinched the tournament in history. The triumphant team was subsequently honored at a reception hosted by Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
Allegations of On-Field Provocation
It was at this reception that PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi made the board's stance clear to the media. He accused the Indian junior players of overstepping the mark during the high-stakes match. "Indian players kept provoking Pakistani players during the Under-19 Asia Cup final," Naqvi stated. Emphasizing the need to keep sports and politics separate, he confirmed, "Pakistan will formally inform the ICC about the incident."
Echoing these concerns, Pakistan's Under-19 team mentor and former captain, Sarfaraz Ahmed, strongly criticized the behaviour of the Indian side. "India's behaviour during the game was not appropriate, and their conduct was against the spirit of cricket," Sarfaraz said. He added that despite the alleged provocations, the Pakistani team chose to celebrate their victory with true sportsmanship.
A History of Disciplinary Clashes
This incident is not an isolated one in the intense cricketing rivalry between the two nations. The report notes that during the senior men’s Asia Cup 2025, players from both India and Pakistan were previously reprimanded for breaches of the ICC Code of Conduct. The latest controversy at the junior level underscores the recurring tensions that surface in matches between these arch-rivals.
The PCB's decision to escalate the matter to the ICC's disciplinary committee sets the stage for an official investigation into the on-field exchanges. The cricket world now awaits the global governing body's response to these serious allegations concerning the spirit of the game.
