PM Shahbaz Sharif announces cash prize for Pakistan U19 victorious Asia Cup 2025 contingent

Pakistan Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif has announced a cash reward for the country’s victorious Under-19 cricket team following their brilliant win in the Asia Cup 2025. The young Pakistani team delivered a dominant performance in the final, defeating arch-rivals India by 191 runs, leading to nationwide celebrations and official recognition by the government.

Sharif announced on Monday during a special reception held in Islamabad to honour the players and team officials. He declared a cash award of PKR 10 million (approximately INR 32 lakh or USD 36,000) for each squad member, a reward rarely seen at the junior level in Pakistan cricket. 

Team mentor and manager Sarfaraz Ahmed confirmed the prize money while addressing the media after the ceremony, praising the players for their efforts throughout the tournament. The reward matches what Pakistan’s senior team earned after winning the 2017 Champions Trophy final against India.

Pakistan clinch their second U19 Asia Cup title

Pakistan’s title win was made on all-round display in the final. After losing to India earlier in the group stage, the team regrouped brilliantly. Batting first, Pakistan posted 347 for eight, courtesy of 172 runs from Sameer Minhas, who hit 17 boundaries and nine sixes.

India’s chase was affected by Pakistan’s pace trio, Ali Reza (4/42), Mohammad Sayyam (2/38), and Abdul Subhan (2/29), dismantling the Indian batting lineup for 156 runs in just 26.2 overs, leading to their second U19 Asia Cup title.

Head coach Shahid Anwar credited the victory to a long-term selection and development process. He revealed that trials began in June, with around 70 players initially scouted nationwide before being narrowed down to a core group of 20. Most of these players were given exposure to domestic 50-over cricket before the tournament, ensuring they were prepared for high-pressure situations.

Pakistan captain Farhan Yousaf revealed the team’s fighting spirit, noting that lessons from the earlier defeat against India helped them execute plans better in the final. Meanwhile, India captain Ayush Mhatre admitted that inconsistent bowling on the day proved costly despite an otherwise solid tournament.

The team received a hero’s welcome upon returning to Islamabad. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi hailed the triumph as a historic moment for Pakistan cricket, while players like Sameer Minhas and Ali Reza are seen as prospects.