Jubilant reception greets young champions in Islamabad
ISLAMABAD: Fresh from a commanding 191-run demolition of India in the Men’s ACC Under-19 Asia Cup final, Pakistan’s victorious youth cricket team arrived in Islamabad on Monday to a thunderous welcome from fans.
Authorities made special arrangements at Islamabad International Airport, where hundreds of supporters gathered outside the terminal despite the cold December night. Fans danced to drumbeats, waved national flags and chanted slogans as they waited eagerly for the champions who sealed the title in Dubai.
Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chief Operating Officer Sumair Ahmad Syed, Director High Performance Aqib Javed and other officials received the team on arrival, congratulating the players for their emphatic triumph against arch-rivals India.
Fans shower praise, prayers and petals
As the players emerged from the terminal, jubilant supporters showered them with rose petals and draped garlands around their necks. Cheers echoed through the airport as fans celebrated a victory many described as historic and emotionally uplifting.
Young supporters sang patriotic songs while older fans congratulated the players with teary-eyed smiles, offering prayers for their continued success, including the upcoming Under-19 Cricket World Cup. Children sat on their parents’ shoulders, waving banners and trying to catch a glimpse of their favourite cricketers.
The team later departed for their hotel under VIP security, bringing the celebratory scenes to a close.
Dominant final seals Asia Cup crown
Pakistan clinched the Under-19 Asia Cup on Sunday with a dominant all-round performance at the ICC Academy. After posting an imposing 347-run total, Pakistan’s bowlers ripped through India’s batting line-up, dismissing them for 156 in just 26.2 overs.
India’s chase faltered early as opener Vaibhav Suryavanshi and captain Ayush Mhatre added 32 runs before Ali Raza removed Mhatre in the fourth over. Mohammad Sayyam struck soon after, dismissing Aaron George for 16 and tightening Pakistan’s grip on the match. Relentless bowling pressure ensured India never recovered.
Prime minister, nation hail historic win
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is scheduled to meet the victorious squad later today to formally congratulate and encourage the young players. Soon after the final, he praised the team’s performance on social media, calling it “electrifying” and a landmark moment for Pakistan cricket.
Renowned cricketers, politicians and fans across the country also lauded the Under-19 side for their composure, dominance and fearless display on the big stage, hailing the triumph as a promising sign for the future of Pakistan cricket.
