ThinkScopeThe Under-19 Asia Cup final once again lived up to the hype of an India vs Pakistan showdown, but the contest tilted heavily in Pakistan’s favour as teenage sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi endured another disappointing outing under pressure.
Chasing a daunting target of 348, India’s hopes of a dramatic chase suffered an early blow when Suryavanshi fell for 26 in the fifth over. The 14-year-old, hailed as one of India’s most exciting batting prospects, attempted an ambitious lofted shot off Ali Raza, only to edge the ball behind.
Pakistan wicketkeeper Hamza Zahoor completed a sharp catch as the ball climbed awkwardly, exposing the lack of room for the youngster to free his arms. The dismissal summed up Suryavanshi’s tough tournament finale.
After managing just 9 runs in the semi-final against Sri Lanka, expectations were high for a turnaround in the big clash. Instead, India slid to 49/3, with skipper Ayush Mhatre (2 off 7) and Aaron George (16 off 9) also departing cheaply, leaving the batting order rattled.
Earlier, Pakistan laid the foundation for their dominance through a sensational knock from opener Sameer Minhas. Displaying composure beyond his years, Minhas smashed a breathtaking 172 off 113 balls, peppering the boundary with 17 fours and nine sixes.
His second century of the tournament — following an unbeaten 177 against Malaysia — underlined his status as one of the standout performers of the ACC Under-19 Asia Cup.
Pakistan’s total of 347/8 proved too steep, as their bowlers fed off early breakthroughs and never allowed India to settle. The final echoed the familiar narrative of high-pressure Indo-Pak clashes, where composure and execution often define the outcome.
For India, the defeat will spark debate around handling prodigious talent at a young age. For Pakistan, Minhas’ heroics signaled the arrival of a future star, capable of shining on the biggest youth stage.
