High-voltage U-19 Asia Cup showdown: Sameer Minhas shines in Pakistan VS India final

Dubai: The Under-19 Asia Cup final between Pakistan and India is underway at the ICC Academy Ground in Dubai, with fans eagerly watching a high-stakes clash between the two traditional rivals.

India won the toss and opted to field, sending Pakistan in to bat. Opening the innings, Hamza Zahoor and Sameer Minhas got Pakistan off to a cautious start. The first wicket fell at 31 runs, with Zahoor dismissed for 18. Pakistan lost their second wicket at 123 runs when Usman Khan was bowled out for 35, having struck a six and three fours.

Meanwhile, Sameer Minhas has been in scintillating form, scoring 74 runs off a combination of two sixes and 11 fours, anchoring the innings alongside Ahmed Hussain. Pakistan has reached 143 for the loss of two wickets, keeping hopes alive against their formidable opponents.

India comes into the final with a psychological edge, having defeated Pakistan by 90 runs in their pool match earlier in the tournament. However, Pakistan’s strong start, led by Minhas’s brilliant half-century, suggests the final could be a thrilling contest.

Amid the on-field excitement, off-field curiosity surrounds the trophy presentation. Questions have arisen about whether the winning team will receive the trophy from Asian Cricket Council Chairman and Pakistani Home Minister Mohsin Naqvi, though neither the ACC nor the Indian board has issued a statement.

The final represents not just a title clash but a golden opportunity for young players to showcase their talent on a high-pressure stage. Cricket fans worldwide are following the match closely, eager to see which side will lift the prestigious Under-19 Asia Cup trophy.