In a high-stakes clash that reignited one of cricket’s fiercest rivalries, Pakistan U19 outclassed India U19 by a commanding 191 runs in the final of the DP World Men’s U19 Asia Cup 2025. Held at the ICC Academy in Dubai on December 21, 2025, this marked the first U19 Asia Cup final between the two arch-rivals in 11 years. Pakistan’s emphatic victory not only secured their first outright title in the tournament—having previously shared it with India in 2012—but also showcased emerging talents poised to shine on the global stage. The match, broadcasted via highlights on the Asian Cricket Council’s YouTube channel, captured the drama, skill, and intensity that defined this youth showdown.
The Toss and Pakistan’s Explosive Batting Display
India U19 captain Ayush Mhatre won the toss and opted to bowl first, hoping to exploit early conditions on a pitch that promised runs. Pakistan, however, had other plans. Openers Hamza Zahoor and Sameer Minhas set a blistering tone, with Zahoor smashing a quick 18 off 14 balls before falling to Henil Patel in the fourth over. This brought Usman Khan to the crease, who partnered with Minhas for a crucial 92-run stand.
Minhas, the star of the show, unleashed a masterclass in aggressive yet composed batting. Racing to his fifty in just 29 balls, he dominated India’s bowlers with sublime stroke play, including 16 fours and seven sixes. His 172 off 113 balls—his second century of the tournament—was described in the highlights as a “work of art,” blending patience, talent, and flair. Ahmed Hussain provided solid support with a measured 56 off 72 balls, forming a 137-run third-wicket partnership that propelled Pakistan to 260/3 by the 37th over.
As wickets tumbled in the death overs—courtesy of Deepesh Devendran’s 3/83—Pakistan still managed a formidable 347/8 in 50 overs. Captain Farhan Yousaf chipped in with 19, while late contributions from Niqab Shafiq (12) and Mohammad Sayyam (13) ensured a strong finish. India’s bowlers toiled, with Khilan Patel (2/44) and Henil Patel (2/62) being the pick, but fielding lapses, including dropped catches, proved costly.
India’s Chase Unravels Under Pressure
Chasing 348, India U19 started aggressively, with opener Vaibhav Suryavanshi smashing a six off the first ball and racing to 26 off 10. However, Pakistan’s bowlers, led by the fiery Ali Raza, struck early and often. Raza dismissed Mhatre (2) and Suryavanshi in quick succession, reducing India to 49/3 by the fifth over. Aaron George (16) showed brief resistance, but Mohammad Sayyam’s double strike left India reeling at 59/4.
The middle order crumbled without partnerships: Vihaan Malhotra (7), Vedant Trivedi (9), and Abhigyan Kundu (13) fell cheaply to Abdul Subhan and Sayyam. Kanishk Chouhan (9) and Khilan Patel (19) tried to stabilize, but Raza returned to dismantle the tail. Deepesh Devendran provided a late spark with 36 off 16, including powerful boundaries, but it was too little too late. India was bundled out for 156 in 26.2 overs, with Raza claiming 4/42 and Huzaifa Ahsan mopping up with 2/12.
Pakistan’s bowling attack was relentless, exploiting India’s “mindless” approach as highlighted in post-match commentary. The lack of temperament and partnerships sealed India’s fate in what turned into a one-sided affair.
Standout Performances and Key Takeaways
- Sameer Minhas (Pakistan): Player of the Match and Series for his breathtaking 172. His innings, laced with elegant drives and towering sixes, turned the game decisively. Minhas’ tournament tally of 471 runs underscores his potential as a future star.
- Ali Raza (Pakistan): The pacer’s 4/42, including key wickets, dismantled India’s top order. His pace and accuracy were pivotal in the chase.
- Ahmed Hussain (Pakistan): A composed 56 anchored the innings, allowing Minhas to flourish.
- Deepesh Devendran (India): Top-scored with 36 in a losing cause, showing fight with aggressive shots.
Pakistan’s turnaround from a shaky start to tournament dominance was lauded, with fans and commentators celebrating their “perfect sunshine” ending. The crowd erupted as players rushed onto the field with flags, and captain Farhan Yousaf lifted the trophy presented by Mohsin Naqvi.
This victory not only avenges past shared titles but signals a bright future for Pakistan cricket. For India, it’s a learning curve ahead of the U19 World Cup. As the highlights reel shows, youth cricket continues to deliver moments of brilliance and heartbreak in equal measure.
