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Muhammad Arsalan
DUBAI: Pakistan produced a dominant all-round performance to defeat India by 191 runs in the final of the ACC Under-19 Asia Cup in Dubai, clinching the title in emphatic fashion.
Chasing a daunting target of 348 runs, India’s Under-19 batting line collapsed under pressure and was bowled out for just 156, as Pakistan’s bowlers ran through the middle and lower order with ease.
Earlier, India won the toss and opted to field, a decision that backfired as Pakistan piled up 347 for 8 in their allotted overs. Opener Samir Minhas was the standout performer, playing a magnificent innings of 172 runs off 113 balls, laced with 17 fours and nine sixes, to anchor Pakistan’s batting effort.
Pakistan received solid support from Ahmad Hussain, who scored 56, while Usman Khan added 35 runs. Captain Farhan Yousuf contributed 19, and Hamza Zahoor chipped in with 18 to help Pakistan post one of the highest totals of the tournament.
In reply, India never looked comfortable against disciplined and aggressive Pakistani bowling. The Indian middle and lower order struggled badly at a crucial stage of the match, failing to build partnerships or sustain momentum.
Devendran top-scored for India with 36 runs, while Suryavanshi added 26, but no other batter managed to offer significant resistance.
Pakistan’s bowling attack was led by Ali Raza, who claimed four wickets with an impressive spell. Abdul Subhan, Muhammad Siyam and Huzifa Hassan supported him well, picking up two wickets each to seal a comprehensive victory.
As in previous matches, there was no handshake between the captains at the toss or during the trophy photo session, a moment that once again drew attention on the sidelines.
Before the final, Pakistan captain Farhan Yousuf had expressed confidence in his side, stating they were fully prepared to fight hard and aim for the title, a promise his team delivered convincingly on the field.
The triumph marks Pakistan’s second Under-19 Asia Cup title. Pakistan and India were previously declared joint champions in the 2012 edition after the final was abandoned.
Pakistan has also won the ICC Under-19 World Cup twice, and this victory further underlines the strength and depth of the country’s emerging cricket talent.
