Dubai: Pakistan won the Under-19 Asia Cup, beating India in the final by 191 runs at Dubai today. Batting first, Pakistan scored 347 runs for the loss of eight wickets in the stipulated fifty overs. Chasing the target of 348 runs, India were all out at 156 runs in 26.1 overs. This victory marks Pakistan’s second triumph in the Under-19 Asia Cup.

According to Radio Pakistan, for Pakistan, Sameer Minhas scored 172 runs and Ahmed Hussain added 56 runs, while Ali Raza took four wickets. Sameer Minhas was declared Player of the Match and Series. President of the Asia Cricket Council, Mohsin Naqvi, handed over trophies and prizes to the winning team and the runner-up.

President Asif Ali Zardari extended heartfelt congratulations to the Pakistan Under-19 Cricket team on their victory. In a statement, he remarked that the victory against India in the final is a testament to the hard work, discipline, and determination of the young players. He emphasized that the success of the Under-19 team is a source of pride and joy for the entire nation, appreciating the collective performance of the captain, players, and the Pakistan Cricket Board.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also felicitated the Pakistani team and the entire nation on their success in the Under-19 Asia Cup. In his statement, he commended the Pakistani players’ outstanding performance and noted that the players have made history by defeating India in the final. The Prime Minister expressed confidence that the Under-19 team would continue to bring international acclaim to the country in the future. He also extended appreciation to Pakistan Cricket Board Chairman Mohsin Naqvi and the entire team management.

Upon their arrival at Islamabad airport, the Pakistan Under-19 team received an unprecedented warm reception. The crowd bestowed flowers on the players and expressed appreciation for the team’s performance, particularly against India in the tournament held in Dubai.