BCCI Plans Review After India U-19 Defeat; PCB to Move ICC Over ‘Provocative Behaviour’
PCB plans to approach ICC over alleged ‘provocative behaviour’ as India suffer a 191-run defeat in the ACC Men’s U-19 Asia Cup 2025 final
India, Dec 23 : India’s Under-19 cricket team suffered a crushing 191-run defeat against arch-rivals Pakistan in the final of the ACC Men’s U-19 Asia Cup 2025, prompting the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to consider a detailed performance review.
The result came as a major setback for India, who had dominated the group stage with unbeaten performances, including a commanding 90-run victory over Pakistan earlier in the tournament. However, the final saw a complete reversal of fortunes as Pakistan produced a dominant all-round display.
Pakistan batter Sameer Minhas starred with a sensational knock of 172 runs off 113 balls, smashing 17 fours and nine sixes to dismantle the Indian bowling attack. Despite fielding a strong line-up featuring Vaibhav Suryavanshi and captain Ayush Mhatre, India were unable to contain the onslaught and later collapsed during the chase.
According to a report by Cricbuzz, the BCCI is expected to hold discussions beyond its routine post-tournament review. The board is likely to engage with head coach Hrishikesh Kanitkar and skipper Ayush Mhatre to assess the team’s overall campaign, with particular focus on the heavy loss in the final.
The review may also examine an on-field altercation involving Indian batter Vaibhav Suryavanshi and Pakistan pacer Ali Raza, who were seen exchanging heated words following Suryavanshi’s dismissal in the fifth over.
Meanwhile, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi said the board would approach the International Cricket Council (ICC) over what it described as “provocative behaviour” by Indian players during the final. Speaking to Geo News, Naqvi claimed Pakistani players were repeatedly provoked and added that sport and politics should remain separate.
Pakistan U-19 team mentor and former captain Sarfaraz Ahmed also criticised India’s conduct, calling it “unethical,” while asserting that Pakistan celebrated the victory in the spirit of sportsmanship.
The incident adds to the growing list of sporting tensions between India and Pakistan. Earlier in 2025, India’s senior, women’s and Under-19 teams had adopted a no-handshake policy against Pakistan during the Asia Cup, citing solidarity with victims of the Pahalgam terror attack.
The Indian Under-19 team will now shift its focus to preparations for the ICC Under-19 World Cup, scheduled to be held in January–February 2026.
