DUBAI: Pakistan’s U-19 cricket team made history by winning their first-ever Asia Cup title defeating India in a thrilling final.
The standout performer for Pakistan was opener Sameer Munir, who played a brilliant knock of 172 runs off 113 balls, guiding the team to a commanding total. His century came off just 71 balls, demonstrating his exceptional skill and composure under pressure.
Despite losing two early wickets at 31 and 123 runs, Pakistan’s innings remained solid, thanks to key contributions from Hamza Zahoor (18), Usman Khan (35), and Ahmed Hussain (56). Munir’s magnificent innings was the highlight, and he was dismissed for 172 at a total score of 302 runs.
In response, India’s batting line-up collapsed against Pakistan’s well-disciplined bowling attack. Ali Raza was the pick of the bowlers, claiming three wickets, while Mohammad Siyam and Abdul Subhan took two wickets each, restricting India’s progress. Pakistan’s bowlers dominated the game, dismissing India for a low total and securing a comfortable victory.
This victory marks a historic moment for Pakistan as it is their first-ever U-19 Asia Cup title. While Pakistan has won the ICC U-19 World Cup twice (in 2004 and 2006), they had never clinched the Asia Cup trophy before. In 2012, Pakistan shared the Asia Cup title with India as co-champions.
Sameer Munir’s brilliant form throughout the tournament was a key factor in Pakistan’s success. He accumulated 299 runs in four matches, including a century and a half-century. His consistency with the bat made him one of the standout players in the tournament.
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