The BCCI has initiated a review following India’s shocking loss to Pakistan in the 2025 ACC Men’s U19 Asia Cup final. The defeat has raised concerns about the team’s performance and management ahead of the ICC U19 World Cup.
Pakistan dominated the final, first scoring a massive 348 runs. India’s batting collapsed, with the team bowled out for just 156 in 26.2 overs. The 191-run margin highlighted a one-sided contest in the continental final.
Opener Sameer Minhas was the standout for Pakistan, scoring an incredible 172 runs off 113 balls, including 17 fours and nine sixes. India struggled against a strong bowling attack led by Ali Raza, who took four wickets. Huzaifa Ahsan, Abdul Subhan, and Mohammad Sayyam also contributed with two wickets each.
The scale of the loss against arch-rivals prompted an urgent online meeting of the BCCI Apex Council. Senior officials reviewed India’s overall campaign and expressed displeasure at the lack of fight shown in the final. Sources confirmed that the board expects answers from the team management.
The BCCI has decided to seek detailed explanations from head coach Hrishikesh Kanitkar and captain Ayush Mhatre. Officials aim to address tactical, selection, and temperament issues before the ICC U19 World Cup begins.
The ICC U19 World Cup is scheduled from 15 January to 6 February 2026. Sixteen teams will compete in four groups, followed by a Super Six stage, semi-finals, and the final. The BCCI is determined to ensure that the Asia Cup collapse does not indicate deeper problems for India at the global stage.
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The board’s swift action reflects its commitment to correcting course and strengthening the U19 squad. Analysts say India must learn from this heavy defeat to remain competitive internationally.
