Pakistan delivered a statement victory on the biggest stage, crushing India by 191 runs in the final to lift their second Under-19 Asia Cup and surge into form ahead of the ICC Under-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup.
In a one-sided summit clash in Dubai, Pakistan dominated all three disciplines, piling up a mammoth 347 before skittling India for 156. With the Under-19 World Cup looming next month, the timing of the performance could hardly have been better.
Sameer Minhas Sets the Tone
At the heart of Pakistan’s dominance was opener Sameer Minhas, who produced a breathtaking knock of 172 off 113 balls. His innings combined power with control, dismantling India’s bowling plans and tilting the final decisively in Pakistan’s favour.
Minhas found solid support from Ahmed Hussain, whose composed 56 ensured Pakistan never lost momentum. Although India’s Deepesh Devendran claimed three wickets, the damage had already been done by a ruthless top order.
India’s Chase Unravels Quickly
Chasing an imposing target, India showed early intent through Vaibhav Suryavanshi, who raced to 26 off just 10 balls. That brief spark, however, was quickly extinguished as Pakistan’s pace attack ripped through the top order.
Within 10 overs, India were five down for under 70, the chase already beyond repair. Ali Raza led the charge with an incisive 4/42, while Mohammad Sayyam, Abdul Subhan, and Huzaifa Ahsan provided relentless support, sharing the remaining wickets.
India were eventually bowled out for 156 in 26.2 overs, with Devendran’s modest contribution the only resistance of note.
Momentum Shifted When It Mattered Most
The final result underlined how quickly momentum can swing in youth cricket. India had beaten Pakistan by 90 runs in the group stage after defending 240 and entered the knockouts unbeaten. But the final told a very different story.
Pakistan’s emphatic win not only sealed the Under-19 Asia Cup but also reinforced their readiness for the upcoming global challenge. While India are yet to announce their World Cup squad, Pakistan have already named theirs — and after this performance, they head into the tournament with belief, balance, and bragging rights firmly on their side.
