Pakistan’s 19-year-old opener Sameer Minhas delivered a historic, match-defining 172 off 113 balls against India in the U19 Asia Cup final, powering Pakistan to a mammoth total and etching his name in youth cricket history with the highest individual score in the tournament’s final.
Minhas’ Masterclass in Dubai
In a high-octane clash at the ICC Academy Ground in Dubai, Sameer Minhas proved to be the star of the show. Opening the innings for Pakistan, Minhas unleashed a whirlwind knock that left the Indian bowlers clueless. His innings was studded with 17 boundaries and nine sixes, and he reached his century in just 71 balls, setting the tone for Pakistan’s dominant batting display.
Key Highlights
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Record-Breaking Knock:
Minhas’ 172 is now the highest individual score in any U19 Asia Cup final, surpassing Sami Aslam’s 134 from 2012. His knock was not just about runs but also about timing, placement, and fearless aggression, making him the villain of Indian hearts in this final.
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Dominant Partnership:
After Usman Khan’s dismissal, Minhas found able support from Ahmed Hussain. Their 137-run stand for the third wicket firmly put Pakistan in control, with Minhas at the forefront of the assault.
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Historic Milestone:
Minhas became the first batter to cross the 150-run mark in a U19 Asia Cup final. His innings was marked by consistency and flair, blending elegant strokeplay with power hitting, making it a landmark moment in youth cricket.
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Impact on the Match:
Pakistan, powered by Minhas’ ton, posted a massive 347/8. The Indian bowlers struggled to contain the onslaught, with Deepesh Devendran eventually breaking the partnership but not before Minhas had set a new benchmark for future generations.
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Rising Star from Multan
Born in Multan on October 2, 2006, Minhas has been a standout in age-group cricket, known for his right-handed batting and leg-break bowling. His journey from local parks to the international stage is a testament to his dedication and talent.
Final Word
Sameer Minhas’ performance in the U19 Asia Cup final is a reminder of the rich talent emerging in Pakistan’s cricketing ecosystem. His record ton against arch-rivals India has instantly elevated him to the status of a future star.
Sources: Hindustan Times, India Today, ANI, Geo Super, PCB, CricTracker, Cricbuzz