Cricket Fraternity Hails Pakistan’s ‘Fearless’ U-19 Asia Cup Triumph

Sun Dec 21 2025
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DUBAI: Pakistan’s commanding victory over India in the ACC Men’s Under-19 Asia Cup 2025 final drew widespread praise from the cricket fraternity on Sunday, with current and former players lauding the team’s composure, aggression and teamwork in a high-pressure contest.

Pakistan crushed India by 191 runs at the ICC Academy in Dubai to lift the title, completing a dominant performance built around a record-breaking century by Sameer Minhas and a relentless bowling display.

Cricketers praise young champions

Pakistan Test captain Shan Masood said the young side showed exceptional character on the big stage.

“The boys displayed fearlessness, maturity, belief and teamwork in a big game,” Masood said.

Former fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar praised Minhas’s match-defining innings, posting on X: “What a knock of 172 by Sameer Minhas to lead Pak-U19 to victory.”

Legendary former captain Wasim Akram wrote: “Pakistan U19 lift the DP World Men’s U19 Asia Cup in style.”

Former Pakistan seamer Yasir Arafat said the performance was encouraging for the future.

“Pakistan U19 outclass India in the Asia Cup final and lift the trophy. Some strong performances from the young players, which is encouraging to see,” he posted.

Words of pride from cricket stars

All-rounder Mohammad Nawaz described the win as a proud moment.

“A proud moment to celebrate. An exceptional win by the U19 champions in the final,” he wrote on X.

Former captain and all-rounder Mohammad Hafeez congratulated the team, saying: “Congratulations Pakistan on winning the ACC U-19 Asia Cup 2025 by beating India in the final.”

Spinner Sajid Khan also congratulated the side, while all-rounder Shadab Khan said he was proud of the squad’s performance.

“So proud of the incredible cricket displayed by this U19 squad,” Shadab posted.

Star batter Babar Azam highlighted the team effort and coaching influence.

“Well done, boys. Lifting the trophy after a stellar campaign and dominating the final. Big credit to Saifi Bhai, whose experience shaped this triumph,” Babar said.

Rashid Latif highlights team effort

Former wicketkeeper-batter Rashid Latif praised both the batters and bowlers, with special mention of the support staff.

“Congratulations to Pakistan Under-19 on winning the Asia Cup. Sameer Minhas performed exceptionally throughout the tournament. Ali Raza, Subhan and Sayyam delivered impressive bowling, especially in the final,” Latif said.

He also credited team officials Sarfaraz Ahmed, Shahid Anwar, Mansoor Amjad and Rao Iftikhar for their roles in the title win, while acknowledging Azhar Ali’s earlier work with the squad.

Fans celebrate historic win

Pakistan’s emphatic victory sparked celebrations among fans, with social media flooded with congratulatory messages and praise for Minhas and head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed.

Supporters described the triumph as a sign of a bright future for Pakistan cricket, while many highlighted the team’s dominance in the final.

Victory over India after 13 years in the tournament added to the significance of the win for fans.

One-sided final in Dubai

Pakistan were crowned champions after posting a formidable 347 for eight and bowling India out for 156 in 26.2 overs.

Minhas’s 172 set up the win, while Pakistan’s pacers dismantled India’s chase to complete a comprehensive triumph and seal the Under-19 Asia Cup title in style.

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