Former Pakistan captain and mentor of the triumphant Under-19 side Sarfaraz Ahmed criticised the on-field behaviour of Indian junior players during the Asia Cup final in Dubai, calling it “improper” despite the high-pressure nature of the contest.
I have played against many Indian teams, and they used to take cricket as cricket. But this junior team’s behaviour was improper throughout the final.
The match, contested fiercely by both sides, saw provocative gestures, particularly after Pakistan’s batters dominated proceedings.
Pakistan’s Dominance Fuels Tensions
Pakistan Under-19 produced a commanding performance to defeat India by a massive 191-run margin, clinching their first outright Under-19 Asia Cup title after sharing honours with India in 2012.
Opener Sameer Minhas starred with a sensational 172 off 113 balls, propelling Pakistan to a daunting 347/8. The bowling attack then completed the job as pacers Ali Raza, Abdul Subhan and Mohammad Sayyam shared eight wickets to bowl India out for 156 in 26.2 overs.
Sarfaraz acknowledged the intensity of the contest but stressed the importance of maintaining decorum.
I told my players to celebrate but do that with proper conduct. Indian players were getting too emotional. Their gestures were not good as per the requirements of cricket.
Mentor Praises Pakistan Players’ Discipline
Sarfaraz said he repeatedly reminded his players to stay calm and uphold sportsmanship despite the charged atmosphere.
I had briefed my players to show sportsmanship and play the game in a proper manner. I told them to back their team and focus on their own acts.
Heroes’ Welcome and Cash Bonanza Back Home
The emphatic victory was followed by a grand welcome for the squad on their return to Pakistan early Monday. The players, accompanied by PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi, landed at Islamabad airport to scenes of celebration before heading to the Prime Minister’s House for a reception.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced a reward of Rs 10 million (approximately USD 31,300) for each player, citing the significance of the win over India.
The team has made the nation proud.
Earlier, PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi had announced Rs 5 million (around USD 15,600) each for players and support staff.
Sarfaraz Lauded, Focus Shifts to World Cup
Sarfaraz, who captained Pakistan to the 2006 Under-19 World Cup and the 2017 Champions Trophy, was praised by the Prime Minister for his role as mentor.
We all know you are our hero, and this time you raised the morale of the team as mentor.
Sarfaraz said the recognition would further motivate the squad.
This encouragement will raise the morale of the players ahead of the Junior World Cup.
Road Ahead for Pakistan U-19
The squad is expected to meet Field Marshal Asim Munir before departing for Zimbabwe, where they will compete in a tri-series against the hosts and Afghanistan starting December 26. The ICC Under-19 World Cup will follow in Zimbabwe and Namibia from January 15.
With confidence high and rewards secured, Pakistan’s juniors now turn their focus from Asia Cup glory to the global stage.
