Army chief hails youth, discipline and national pride after historic victory over India
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s victorious Under-19 cricket team, which defeated arch-rivals India to lift the Asia Cup, met Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of the Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir at the General Headquarters in Rawalpindi on Monday.
According to a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Field Marshal Munir congratulated the players, team management and officials on their landmark achievement. He described the Asia Cup triumph as a source of immense pride for the entire nation and praised the young cricketers for bringing honour to Pakistan on an international stage.
While addressing the team, the army chief commended their discipline, teamwork and fighting spirit throughout the tournament. He said the players’ commitment and resilience reflected the vast potential of Pakistan’s youth. He added that such performances inspire millions of young people across the country and strengthen national confidence.
Emphasising the importance of professionalism, Field Marshal Munir urged the players to continue working hard and maintaining high standards in their sporting careers. He advised them to remain focused, disciplined and humble as they progress to higher levels of international cricket. He also encouraged them to act as ambassadors of Pakistan, both on and off the field, by upholding sportsmanship and positive values.
Furthermore, the army chief highlighted the broader role of youth in national development. He said empowering young people remains essential for the country’s progress and stability. According to him, the energy, character and determination shown by the Under-19 team shape Pakistan’s image globally and demonstrate the country’s bright future.
During the meeting, the players and team officials interacted with Field Marshal Munir and shared their experiences from the tournament. The atmosphere remained cordial and celebratory as the army chief posed for a group photograph with the team and management at GHQ.
In response, members of the Under-19 squad expressed gratitude for the encouragement and recognition extended by the army chief. They said the support from national institutions strengthened their morale and motivated them to aim for greater achievements in the future. The players acknowledged that the meeting would serve as a lasting source of inspiration as they prepare for upcoming challenges.
The Asia Cup victory has drawn widespread praise from across the country, with political leaders, former cricketers and fans lauding the young team’s performance. The triumph over India, in particular, has been seen as a defining moment that showcased Pakistan’s emerging cricketing talent and competitive spirit at the junior level.
As celebrations continue, officials said the focus now remains on grooming these players for senior international cricket. With sustained support, guidance and discipline, the Under-19 champions are expected to form the backbone of Pakistan’s cricketing future and carry forward the legacy of success on the global stage.
