Pakistan rushes to welcome heroes as U19 team returns after defeating India

WEB DESK: Following a historical victory in Dubai after defeating India, in the ACC Men’s Under-19 Asia Cup final, the U19 team returned to Pakistan with hordes of people awaiting to catch a sight of them.

Despite the bitter cold of Islamabad, fans thronged to the airport to receive them, showering them with rose petals.

Electing to bat first, Pakistan posted a formidable total of 348 for eight, anchored by a sensational 172 from Sameer Minhas, who struck 17 fours and nine sixes. Ahmed Hussain added a valuable 56, while Usman Khan contributed 35, helping the Green Shirts build an almost unassailable target.

India’s chase faltered from the start as openers Vaibhav Suryavanshi and captain Ayush Mhatre were dismissed cheaply for 26 and 2, leaving the visitors under severe pressure. Despite brief resistance from Deepesh Devendran, who scored 36 off 16 balls, India collapsed to 156 all out in 26.2 overs.

Pakistan’s bowlers were clinical, with Ali Raza taking 4 for 42, Abdul Subhan 2 for 29, Huzaifa Ahsan 2 for 12, and Mohammad Sayyam 2 for 38, ensuring a comprehensive and emphatic victory for the Green Shirts. Pakistan’s former captain Sarfraz Ahmed led the Pakistan’s U-19 team to an emphatic victory.

Suryavanshi’s shoe gesture

India U19 batsman Vaibhav Suryavanshi sparked controversy during the Asia Cup final in Dubai after reacting rudely to Pakistan pacer Ali Raza following his dismissal. Frustrated by Raza’s celebration, Suryavanshi turned back, exchanged heated words, and made a dismissive “shoe-pointing” gesture, widely seen as disrespectful and provocative. The incident drew criticism on social media, with fans calling his behaviour unnecessary and unbecoming, especially in a junior-level final. Despite a strong tournament earlier, including a big knock against UAE, the episode overshadowed his performance and highlighted tensions between the young players on the field.