Mohit Ulva’s explosive unbeaten 49 off 26 balls and a collective display of nerves and skill powered India Under-19 to a sensational one-wicket victory over Pakistan Under-19 in the final of the DP World Men’s U19 Asia Cup at Al Amerat Cricket Ground on Saturday.
Chasing a daunting 338, India finished on 339/9 in 49.6 overs to snatch the title in one of the most dramatic finishes in recent youth cricket history. Pakistan had earlier posted 337/9, built around Usman Khan’s century (107), Abdul Qadir’s blistering 80, and captain Farhan Yousaf’s 63.
Pakistan’s Strong Total Restricted by Late Fightback
Pakistan elected to bat first and looked set for a massive total after racing to 204/2 in 30 overs. Usman Khan’s fourth Under-19 ODI century and Qadir’s 54-ball 80 (including eight sixes) put India under heavy pressure. However, India’s bowlers fought back superbly in the death overs. Kavya Patel (4/68) and Chigurupati Venkata (3/40) led the charge, restricting Pakistan to just 63 runs for the loss of six wickets in the final 10 overs.
India’s Epic Chase
India’s reply was built on a solid foundation. Openers Aaryavir Sehwag (58 off 61 balls) and captain Lakshya Raichandani (80 off 101) put on a crucial partnership that kept the chase on track. As wickets fell at regular intervals and the required rate climbed, Manal Chauhan provided the spark with a rapid 47 off 32 balls.
The real drama unfolded in the final stages. With India needing 30 runs off the last 18 balls and the ninth wicket down, Mohit Ulva walked in and turned the match on its head. The all-rounder smashed 49 not out off just 26 balls (five fours and three sixes), striking at nearly 190. He shared a vital stand with Chigurupati Venkata (11* off 8), and India crossed the line with a boundary off the final ball of the innings.
Pakistan’s bowlers kept fighting until the end. Rizwanullah claimed three wickets, while Niqab Shafiq took two, ensuring the contest went down to the wire.
A Memorable Title Triumph
The victory not only secured India the U19 Asia Cup title but also avenged their group-stage and previous final losses to Pakistan. The young Indian side showed remarkable composure, batting depth, and belief under extreme pressure, turning a near-impossible chase into a historic win.
