Naqvi Hails Fearless Pakistan U19s After Historic ACC Asia Cup Triumph

DUBAI: Pakistan Cricket Board chairman and Asian Cricket Council president Mohsin Naqvi praised Pakistan’s Under-19 team after their emphatic victory over India in the ACC Men’s U19 Asia Cup 2025 final, calling the performance a statement for the future of the country’s cricket.

Naqvi shared his reaction shortly after the final ceremony, where he personally handed the trophy to the victorious squad. His message reflected pride, confidence, and belief in the next generation of Pakistani cricketers.

“What a show! Proud to be handing over the ACC U19 Cup to our brilliant Pakistan U19 team. Fearless cricket, unmatched spirit, and a performance to remember,” Naqvi wrote in a post on X.

Leadership Praises Big-Match Temperament

Naqvi reserved special praise for opener Sameer Minhas, whose commanding century defined the final and broke India’s resistance long before the chase began. The PCB chairman highlighted Minhas’ calm approach and composure on the biggest stage.

“Special mention for Sameer, calm under pressure and outstanding on the big stage. This team makes the nation proud, and the future of Pakistan cricket shine bright,” he added.

The comments underlined how highly the board views Minhas’ temperament, particularly against arch-rivals India in a high-pressure final.

Pakistan U19 Dominate Final from Start to Finish

Pakistan Under-19 seized control after asking to bat first and never loosened their grip. The batting unit attacked with intent, clarity, and discipline, building a massive total that placed immediate pressure on India.

Sameer Minhas led the charge with a breathtaking 172 from just 113 balls. His innings featured 17 fours and nine sixes, blending timing with power and maturity well beyond his years. The knock pushed Pakistan to 347 for eight in their allotted 50 overs.

Bowling Unit Completes Ruthless Job

Chasing 348, India U19 attempted early aggression but collapsed as Pakistan’s bowlers struck with pace and precision. The Indian lineup lost wickets at regular intervals and failed to build partnerships under sustained pressure.

Ali Raza spearheaded the attack with a superb four-wicket haul, consistently hitting the right lengths and forcing errors. Huzaifa Ahsan, Abdul Subhan, and Mohammad Sayyam backed him strongly, taking two wickets each and choking any hopes of recovery.

India folded for 156 in 26.3 overs, sealing a thumping 191-run victory for Pakistan.

Records Fall in Tournament to Remember

Minhas’ 172 became the highest individual score by a Pakistani batter in Youth ODIs. The innings also earned him the Player of the Match award in the final.

Across the tournament, Minhas amassed 471 runs, the highest tally ever recorded in a single edition of the U19 Asia Cup. His consistency anchored Pakistan’s campaign from the group stage to the final.

The achievement placed him above notable names from Pakistan’s youth cricket history and strengthened his reputation as a long-term prospect.

Statement Win for Pakistan Cricket’s Future

Pakistan’s first outright ACC Men’s U19 Asia Cup title delivered more than silverware. The performance reflected structure, preparation, and belief across the squad.

Naqvi’s remarks captured that broader significance. Pakistan’s youth pipeline delivered under pressure, dominated rivals, and announced a generation ready to step forward.

For Pakistan U19 cricket, the final in Dubai felt less like an ending and more like a beginning.