Post by : Meena
Hassan
The U19 Asia Cup 2025 finale witnessed Pakistan triumphing over India, fueled by a stunning century from Sameer Minhas. The match was not without tension, and the situation escalated when Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi, also leading the Asian Cricket Council (ACC), stepped in. Following a formal complaint lodged by Pakistan’s Under-19 coach Sarfaraz Ahmed regarding the conduct of Indian players during the final, Naqvi declared intentions to submit an official grievance with the International Cricket Council (ICC).
In the match held on Sunday, Pakistan set a formidable total of 347 for 8. In response, Pakistan’s bowling attack dismantled India's batting lineup, skittling them out for just 156 runs in 26.2 overs, which led to a commanding 191-run victory. This achievement marked Pakistan’s maiden Under-19 Asia Cup title in 13 years, and only their second in the tournament's history.
During a reception hosted by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to celebrate the team's success, Naqvi remarked, “Indian players consistently provoked our team throughout the final. We will officially report this behavior to the ICC. It’s essential to keep sports distinct from politics.”
Sarfaraz Ahmed echoed this sentiment, condemning the behavior of the Indian team as contrary to the spirit of cricket. “India’s actions were unacceptable and against the essence of the game. Nevertheless, we embraced our victory with grace and sportsmanship. Cricket should always embody the right ethos, and India’s actions reflect their own principles,” he remarked.
This incident comes on the heels of reprimands issued by the ICC to players from both sides, including Haris Rauf and Suryakumar Yadav, for breaches of the Code of Conduct during the senior Asia Cup 2025 contests between India and Pakistan.
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