New Delhi, Nov 2026 : India’s Under-19 team scripted a remarkable victory to win the ACC Men’s Under-19 Asia Cup, defeating arch-rivals Pakistan by one wicket in a thrilling final at Al Amerat, Oman. A sensational last-wicket partnership turned an almost certain defeat into a memorable triumph.
Chasing a challenging target of 338, India were struggling at 309 for nine in the 48th over and appeared to be heading towards defeat. However, Mohit Ulva and number 11 batter Chigurupati Venkata produced an extraordinary rescue act, stitching together an unbeaten 30-run partnership off just 16 deliveries.
With three runs required from the final ball, Ulva struck a boundary to take India to 339 for nine in 50 overs, triggering celebrations among the Indian players and supporters.
Earlier, Pakistan, after opting to bat, posted an imposing 337 for nine. Usman Khan anchored the innings with an impressive 107 off 111 balls, while Abdul Qadir provided an attacking contribution of 80 from 54 deliveries. Captain Farhan Yousaf also played a crucial knock of 63 off 60 balls.
For India, Kavya Patel was the standout bowler, claiming four wickets, while Venkata picked up three.
India began their chase confidently, with openers Lakshya Rajesh Raichandani and Aryaveer Sehwag putting together a 95-run partnership. Raichandani scored 80 off 101 balls, while Sehwag contributed 58 from 61 deliveries.
VK Vineet added 24 runs, and Manal Chauhan kept India's hopes alive with an aggressive 47 off just 32 balls. However, a sudden middle-order collapse saw India slump to 252 for eight, putting Pakistan firmly in control.
Although Chauhan and Ulva attempted to rebuild the innings, Chauhan's dismissal at 309 for nine left India needing a near-impossible finish.
Ulva then rose to the occasion, remaining unbeaten on 49 off just 26 balls, including five fours and three sixes. Venkata supported him with a valuable 11 off eight deliveries.
Their incredible last-wicket stand sealed one of the most dramatic victories in Under-19 cricket, handing India the Asia Cup title in unforgettable fashion.
