New Delhi Chronicle Sports Bureau
Dubai, December 21, 2025 — Pakistan Under-19s produced a clinical all-round performance to defeat India Under-19s by a massive 191 runs, clinching the ACC Under-19 Asia Cup 2025 title in emphatic style at the ICC Academy Ground in Dubai.
After India captain Ayush Mhatre won the toss and chose to field, Pakistan’s young batters delivered a batting masterclass, piling up an imposing 347 for 8 in their allotted 50 overs. The innings was headlined by opener Sameer Minhas, who played a sensational knock of 172 off 113 balls, smashing 17 boundaries and nine sixes. It was the highest individual score ever recorded in an Under-19 Asia Cup final and a performance that set the tone for Pakistan’s dominance.
Minhas was well supported by Ahmed Hussain, who contributed a steady half-century, as Pakistan capitalised on the conditions and punished any loose deliveries. The Indian bowlers struggled to contain the aggressive strokeplay, conceding runs at a brisk pace throughout the innings.
Indian Chase Crumbles Under Pressure
Facing a daunting target of 348, India’s batting lineup faltered early. Regular wickets put the side on the back foot, and the pressure of the steep chase proved too much. India were eventually bowled out for 156 in just 26.2 overs, ending their hopes of a late comeback.
Deepesh Devendran top-scored for India with 36, showing brief resistance, but lacked support from the other end. Pakistan’s bowlers were relentless, led by Ali Raza, who claimed four wickets and consistently struck at crucial intervals to dismantle the Indian batting order.
A Historic Triumph
The comprehensive victory marks Pakistan’s second Under-19 Asia Cup title and their first outright triumph in the tournament since 2012. The 191-run margin is also among the largest in the history of the competition’s finals, underlining the scale of Pakistan’s superiority on the day.
For India, the defeat brought an end to an otherwise impressive tournament campaign. The side had entered the final unbeaten and had displayed remarkable batting depth in earlier matches, including record-breaking performances during the group stages.
Eyes on the World Cup
Despite the loss, India’s Under-19 squad showcased significant promise throughout the tournament, while Pakistan’s title win further reinforced their reputation as a powerhouse in youth cricket.
With the ICC Under-19 World Cup on the horizon, both teams will take valuable lessons and confidence from their Asia Cup campaigns. While Pakistan walk away with the trophy, the tournament has once again highlighted the rich talent pool emerging from the subcontinent — setting the stage for intense rivalries on the global stage.
