Pakistan young-guns shine bright

Deepesh Devendran went for a lofty shot, the ball hanging in the Dubai air for a brief, dramatic moment before Ahmed Hussain settled under it and completed the catch. With that simple act, Pakistan were crowned Under-19 Asia Cup champions. It was not just a victory; it was a statement. Beating India by 191 runs in a final is no ordinary achievement—it is the kind of result that echoes for years.

What made the triumph even more striking was the context. Just a week earlier in the same tournament, India had defeated Pakistan by 90 runs. That loss planted seeds of doubt, and many wondered how the Green Shirts would respond when it mattered most. The answer came in the most emphatic fashion possible. Pakistan didn’t just beat India; they overwhelmed them so comprehensively that this final will remain etched in memory on both sides of the border.

At the heart of the performance was Sameer Minhas, who batted with the authority of a seasoned international. Facing India carried no visible fear—only purpose. His breathtaking 172-run innings, studded with 17 fours and nine sixes, was an exhibition of confidence, timing and power. At just 19, Minhas played like a man who knew exactly what the occasion demanded. If this is what he can produce at youth level, the future promises much more.

The bowling matched the batting in intent and execution. Ali Raza stood out with his pace and control, confirming why he is already being discussed within PCB circles as a future star. Alongside him, Abdul Subhan and Mohammad Sayyam provided relentless support, ensuring India never found a way back into the contest. The key challenge now is nurturing this talent properly—protecting these players from burnout, poor planning and premature expectations so they can eventually serve Pakistan at the highest level.

History tells us that most great cricketers announce themselves early. Under-19 cricket has long been a launchpad, and this tournament was no different. Along with Minhas, batters like Ahmed Hussain and bowlers such as Ali Raza, Abdul Subhan and Mohammad Sayyam have stepped into the spotlight. With an Under-19 World Cup on the horizon, this Asia Cup triumph provides momentum and belief. The “Little Stars” of Pakistan have truly shone.

Encouragingly, this success is not an isolated event. Pakistan’s junior teams have been delivering consistently in recent times. After the achievements of the Emerging team, the Under-19s have now made their mark. There is a lesson here for the senior side, which has struggled against India in recent years. These youngsters did not crumble under pressure. They stared their rivals in the eye, absorbed the heat, and fought back. One batter changed the course of the match on his own—something rarely seen at senior level, where fear too often dictates outcomes.

Development, however, does not happen by accident. For years, Pakistan has heard former “superstars” say they are ready to coach the national team but unwilling to work at Under-19 level due to lack of money or exposure. As a result, junior teams were often left in the hands of lesser-known figures. India took a different route, appointing Rahul Dravid to work with their Under-19 and ‘A’ teams—a decision that paid rich dividends.

Pakistan, thankfully, seems to be learning. Sarfaraz Ahmed, himself a former Under-19 World Cup-winning captain, has embraced the role of mentor and manager. During a recent visit to Dubai, I witnessed firsthand how closely Sarfaraz had bonded with the young players. He wasn’t just offering cricketing advice; he was helping them navigate personal challenges as well. That’s why they call him “Saifi Bhai.” His presence has brought trust, humility and belief—qualities money can’t buy.

Someone recently messaged me saying, “Former cricketers claim Pakistan’s talent has dried up—so how did our Under-19 team beat India by such a margin?” The answer is simple: talent has never dried up. Cricket runs in Pakistan’s veins. Every street hides a potential cricketer, every taped-ball game a raw gem. All these youngsters need is opportunity, structure and honesty in selection.

It was reassuring to see that merit prevailed this time. Despite past controversies around favoritism, the selectors—led by Aaqib Javed—stuck to performance. When selection is fair, results follow. Under Mohsin Naqvi’s leadership, the PCB appears to be moving in the right direction, and the early signs are promising.

Under-19 cricket is the first step on a long road. From here, only a handful will rise to become stars; many others will fade away. The choice lies with these young players—to stay focused, hungry and disciplined. For now, though, they deserve celebration.

By lifting the Asia Cup abroad and raising the national flag high, this team has given the nation a rare moment of pure sporting joy.

Well done, Team Pakistan.