Dubai, December 21,2025: Pakistan’s emphatic 191-run victory over arch-rivals India in the final of the U-19 Asia Cup sparked an outpouring of praise across the country, with former cricketers, political leaders and public figures hailing the young side’s dominant all-round performance and historic triumph.
The win marked a sweet redemption for Pakistan, who had suffered a heavy defeat against India in the group stage and entered the final as underdogs against an unbeaten Indian team. Instead, Pakistan delivered a clinical display at the ICC Academy Ground on Sunday to claim the prestigious title in style, triggering celebrations on social media and beyond.
President Asif Ali Zardari described the victory as “a proud moment for the nation,” congratulating the team on their “impressive victory” that reflected the young players’ dedication and resolve. In a statement, he praised the entire squad, including the captain, coaches, support staff and PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, for their collective effort.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also lauded the “electrifying performance” of the Pakistan U-19 team. “Heartiest congratulations to our Under-19 team on winning the ACC U-19 Asia Cup 2025, defeating India in the final. The nation is proud of you,” the premier said, while also expressing deep appreciation for PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi and his team for their dedicated efforts.
Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti termed the victory over India as “memorable,” telling the young cricketers: “You’ve made the nation proud, keep shining.” Jamaat-i-Islami leader Hafiz Naeemur Rehman also extended his congratulations, singling out opener Sameer Minhas’ record-breaking 172 as an “unparalleled” performance. He predicted a bright future for fast bowler Ali Raza, calling him a “future star,” and gave special praise to team manager Sarfaraz Ahmed, saying Pakistan had achieved “another milestone under his headship.”
Former captain Wasim Akram hailed the team as “Champions of Asia,” crediting Ali Raza’s fiery bowling for setting the tone and Sameer Minhas’ match-winning innings for sealing the title. “Future stars shining bright — well played, boys!” Akram wrote.
Former wicketkeeper-batter and captain Rashid Latif also congratulated the team, praising Sameer Minhas for his consistency throughout the tournament and commending bowlers Ali Raza, Abdul Subhan and Mohammad Sayyam for their decisive spells in the final. While suggesting that Ali Raza could have been tested earlier at a higher level, Latif cautioned against rushing him now due to his commitments ahead of the U-19 World Cup. He also reflected on the impact of T20 cricket on grassroots development, arguing that an overemphasis on the format was harming long-form skills in countries like England and India.
Latif applauded the entire team management, including Sarfaraz Ahmed, Shahid Anwar, Mansoor Amjad and Rao Iftikhar, while also acknowledging the contributions of Azhar Ali, who worked with the squad for a significant period.
Pakistan’s commanding title win not only reaffirmed the depth of its youth talent but also offered renewed optimism for the future of the country’s cricket.
