India Wins U-19 Asia Cup Thrillingly
New Delhi, November 14: India has won the U-19 Asia Cup title for the ninth time by defeating the defending champions Pakistan in a nail-biting final, clinching victory by just one wicket on the last ball. Former Indian cricketer Virender Sehwag reacted to this victory, praising the performance of the Indian players. He also mentioned his son Aryaveer Sehwag, who scored a strong half-century despite being injured during the final. While chasing Pakistan’s substantial target of 338 runs, the Indian team was in a good position with a partnership of 95 runs for the first wicket between captain Raichandani and Aryaveer, reaching 146 runs for one wicket. However, by the 42nd over, Pakistan had reduced India to eight wickets for 252 runs. Mohit then partnered with Manal to lead India back into the game, hitting a four off the last ball of the match from Ahmed Hussain, bringing India to a total of 339 runs for nine wickets and securing the win.
Virender Sehwag’s Tweet
Virender Sehwag tweeted about India’s championship win, stating, “What a match, what a finish. Beating Pakistan while chasing 338 runs in the U-19 Asia Cup final is a huge achievement. It requires a lot of courage. Lakshya scored 80 runs, Aryaveer made 58 runs, and then when a miracle was needed, Manal Chauhan and Mohit Ulwa played brilliantly. This victory was incredible. We are proud of these young champions.” While Sehwag mentioned his son, he also highly praised the innings of Manal Chauhan and Mohit.
Strong Start by Raichandani and Aryaveer
In pursuit of the target, India had a strong start with captain Raichandani and Aryaveer adding 95 runs for the first wicket in 17.4 overs. Aryaveer continued to bat despite getting hit on the hand, completing his half-century with a single off Rizwanullah (three wickets for 53 runs) in 51 balls. However, Aryaveer was caught by Usman Khan while attempting a big shot off the bowling of Nikab Shafiq (two wickets for 57 runs). He faced 61 balls and hit nine fours.
Lakshya Contributes 80 Runs
Raichandani then advanced the innings with VK Vineet (24). The captain completed his half-century in 72 balls with a single off Hasnain Abbas Dar. Rizwanullah broke this partnership by dismissing Vineet, who was caught by Usman, and then caught Arjun Rajput (16) off the wicketkeeper Hamza Zahoor. Dar also ended Yashvardhan Chauhan’s (09) innings, while Raichandani and Anvay Dravid (19) fell in quick succession, putting India in a tough spot. Raichandani faced 101 balls, hitting five fours.
Manal and Mohit Secure the Win
In the final 10 overs, India needed 90 runs. Aryan Savasani (09) and Kavya (00) could not last long. Manal and Mohit then brought India back into the game. Manal hit two sixes off Mohammad Saiyam, while Mohit sent Rizwanullah’s delivery into the stands. Mohit also hit a six off Ali Raza. Nikab caught Manal off Usman, delivering a significant blow to India, but Mohit, along with C. Venkata (not out 11), led India to the title.