Pakistan win toss, elect to bat against India in U-19 Asia Cup final

Pakistan won the toss and elected to bat first against arch-rivals India in the Under-19 Asia Cup final in Muscat on Saturday, as the two sides face off for the continental title.

Pakistan captain Farhan Yousaf opted to keep the playing XI unchanged for the high-stakes encounter, while India made one change to their line-up, according to the respective captains. Defending champions Pakistan head into the final unbeaten in this year’s tournament, having won all four of their matches so far, including a group-stage victory over India.

The Green Shirts secured their place in the final with a commanding nine-wicket win over Bangladesh on Thursday.

Fast bowler Rizwanullah starred in the semi-final, claiming a maiden five-wicket haul to help dismiss Bangladesh. Pakistan’s openers then made light work of the 139-run target.

Usman Khan remained unbeaten on 64 off 54 balls, while Hayam Khan scored 69 off 72 deliveries as they added 123 runs for the opening wicket to guide Pakistan home in the 22nd over.

India booked their place in the final with an eight-wicket victory over Afghanistan on the same day.

Captain Lakshya Raichandani led the chase with 93 off 86 balls, including 13 fours and a six, while Aaryavir Sehwag contributed 51 off 57 deliveries. The pair shared a 117-run opening partnership as India chased down the 228-run target.

Pakistan have also won their earlier group-stage encounter against India in this year’s tournament and will look to carry that momentum into the final.

Under-19 Asia Cup winners list from 1989 to 2025

The Asian Under-19 cricket tournament was first held in Bangladesh in 1989, featuring India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka in a double round-robin format. India, led by Ranjib Biswal, defeated Sri Lanka by 79 runs in the final to claim the inaugural title.

However, the tournament did not return for the next 14 years, with its second edition taking place in Pakistan in 2003. India defeated Sri Lanka by eight wickets in the final at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium.

The third edition was held in Malaysia in 2012, nine years after the previous tournament. Its final between India and Pakistan ended in a tie, with both teams sharing the trophy.