Post by : Meena Ariff

The 2025 U19 Asia Cup final concluded with Pakistan claiming victory against India, thanks to an outstanding century from Sameer Minhas. While the match was marked by some intense moments, the situation escalated further when Mohsin Naqvi, chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and head of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC), stepped in. After a formal complaint from Pakistan’s Under-19 coach Sarfaraz Ahmed about the Indian players’ behavior during the game, Naqvi declared an intention to file an official report with the International Cricket Council (ICC).

The final, held on Sunday, saw Pakistan put up a formidable score of 347 for 8. In reply, India struggled, being bowled out for just 156 runs in 26.2 overs, resulting in a decisive 191-run win. This victory marks Pakistan's first Under-19 Asia Cup title in 13 years, making it only the second title in the nation’s U19 history.

During a celebratory reception held by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for the winning team, Naqvi stated, “Indian players provoked our side throughout the match. We will be formally reporting this behavior to the ICC. It's vital for sports and politics to remain distinct from one another.”

Sarfaraz Ahmed also condemned the Indian team's actions, claiming it went against the spirit of cricket. “India's behavior was unacceptable and opposed to the game's ethos. Nevertheless, we embraced our victory with dignity and sportsmanship. Cricket should always reflect the right spirit, and India’s actions speak to their own approach,” he noted.

This event comes after the ICC had previously reprimanded players from both teams, including Haris Rauf and Suryakumar Yadav, for violations of the Code of Conduct during recent Asia Cup 2025 matches.

#Asia News