Pakistan’s emphatic victory in the ACC Men’s U-19 Asia Cup 2025 final has triggered a wave of celebrations, rewards, and renewed commitments to cricket development across the region. The 191-run demolition of India not only ended a 13-year title drought but also spotlighted the country’s investment in youth cricket—and drew widespread recognition from cricket authorities and the nation’s top leadership.
Pakistan crush India in historic U-19 Asia Cup final
In a final that will be remembered for years, Pakistan’s U-19 team dismantled India with both bat and ball at the ICC Academy in Dubai. Batting first, Pakistan piled up a formidable 347/8 in 50 overs, led by a sensational 172-run knock from opener Sameer Minhas. His innings, laced with power and composure, set a new benchmark as the highest individual score in a U-19 Asia Cup final.
Minhas was well-supported by Ahmed Hussain and Usman Khan, who pushed the score beyond 340 with valuable contributions. In response, India faltered from the start. Key wickets fell in the powerplay, and the Men in Blue never recovered, folding for 156 in just 26.2 overs.
Ali Raza starred with the ball, taking 4 for 42 in 6.2 overs. He was ably supported by Abdul Subhan, Mohammad Sayyam, and Huzaifa Ahsan, who claimed two wickets each. The 191-run margin of victory marked one of the largest in tournament history and underscored Pakistan’s all-round dominance.
Prime Minister hosts reception, announces major reward
The recognition didn’t stop at the cricket board. The victorious squad was officially received by Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif at a ceremony in Islamabad, where he lauded their performance and commitment.
During the event, Sharif announced a special cash award of PKR 10 million (approx. US$ 35.7k) for each member of the winning team—a gesture that matched the scale of their achievement and highlighted the government’s support for youth sports. In addition, the Prime Minister also announced a reward of PKR 2.5 million (approx. US$ 9k) for each member of the support staff in recognition of their vital contribution to the team’s success.
Following the historic Under-19 Asia Cup victory, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced Rs. 10 million per player and Rs. 2.5 million per support staff member to reward the team’s outstanding performance. pic.twitter.com/nMq1NpG7oF
— Murtaza Ali Shah (@MurtazaViews) December 22, 2025
Team mentor Sarfaraz Ahmed praised the young players’ potential, while head coach Shahid Anwar reflected on the team’s journey: “The process started in June when we picked around 70 players after trials and then reduced the number to 20. Most of these players were then given chances to play 50-over cricket at domestic level.”
Mohsin Naqvi praises team spirit and Sameer Minhas’s heroics
Pakistan Cricket Board Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, who also serves as President of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC), celebrated the win and acknowledged the players’ performance with both words and action.
On X (formerly Twitter), Naqvi wrote, “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.”
He singled out the final’s standout performer, adding, “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.”
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.Special mention for Sameer—calm under pressure and outstanding on the big stage. This team makes the nation proud and… pic.twitter.com/koBdaDFTsg
— Mohsin Naqvi (@MohsinnaqviC42) December 21, 2025
To further honour the team’s achievement, the PCB announced a reward of PKR 5 million (approx. US$ 17.8k) for each squad member. Naqvi also assured the players of full support going forward, including access to top-tier medical and training facilities.
