RAWALPINDI: Pakistan’s Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) and Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir on Monday met the country’s Under-19 cricket team at General Headquarters and congratulated the players and officials on their historic Asia Cup victory, praising their discipline, teamwork and fighting spirit as a source of pride for the nation.
On Sunday, Pakistan’s U-19 cricket team delivered a dominant all-round performance and defeated India by 191 runs in the U-19 Asia Cup 2025 final at the ICC Cricket Academy Ground in Dubai.
After being put into bat, Pakistan posted an imposing 347 for eight in their allotted 50 overs. Opener Sameer Minhas anchored the innings with a magnificent 172 off 113 balls, striking 17 fours and nine sixes.
During the meeting, the Field Marshal warmly congratulated the players, team management, and officials on their outstanding performance and historic triumph in winning the ACC Men’s U-19 Asia Cup against arch-rival India.
Field Marshal Munir lauded the cricket team’s discipline, teamwork, and fighting spirit, terming their success a matter of great pride for the nation, the military’s media wing, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), said in a press release.
The Chief of Defence Forces appreciated the dedication and hard work of the young cricketers, emphasising that their achievement reflects the immense talent and potential of Pakistan’s youth.
He encouraged the players to continue striving for excellence, maintain high standards of professionalism, and serve as ambassadors of the country on and off the field.
Field Marshal Munir underscored that Pakistan’s youth are the cornerstone of the nation’s future, whose energy, talent, and character will shape its progress and global standing.
Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, met the Pakistan Under-19 cricket team at General Headquarters (GHQ), Rawalpindi۔
During the meeting, the Field Marshal warmly congratulated the players, team management, and officials on their outstanding performance and historic triumph in winning… pic.twitter.com/vJhnCGBJx6— Siddeeq Sajid (@S_SajidOfficial) December 22, 2025
He reaffirmed his unwavering belief in empowering young Pakistanis to excel in diverse fields and contribute positively to national development through discipline, integrity, and dedication.
Members of the U-19 team expressed their gratitude to the Field Marshal for his encouragement and support, stating that the recognition is a source of motivation for them.
Rs 10 million award for each player
Earlier today, Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif hosted a special luncheon in honour of the U-19 cricket team following their Asia Cup triumph.
During the event, the prime minister announced a cash award of Rs10 million for each member of the winning squad and congratulated the players and management on the brilliant and historic achievement.
Detailing the team’s path to success, Head Coach Shahid Anwar, addressing a news conference after meeting the PM, revealed that the process began on June 17, 2025, with trials for 70 aspiring cricketers. This was whittled down to a training camp for 30 players.
