Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded India's Under-19 team after thrilling one-wicket win over Pakistan in the Asia Cup final on Saturday, calling the youngsters' achievement a proud moment for Indian cricket and saying it would inspire many more to follow in their footsteps.Asia Cup: PM Narendra Modi congratulates India U19 team after thrilling last-over win over Pakistan in final (PTI/Courtesy by BCCI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the Indian Under-19 men's cricket team after the dramatic one-wicket win over Pakistan in the thrilling Asia Cup final on Saturday, saying the youngsters' achievement would inspire others.IND vs PAK, U19 Asia Cup Final: HighlightsModi took to X to praise the team after its thrilling last-ball victory, expressing pride in the way the players performed during the tournament. "Outstanding day for Indian cricket! Immensely proud of our young cricketers for today’s impressive performance and for winning the Men’s U-19 Asia Cup 2026.
Their success will inspire several youngsters. Best wishes to the team for their endeavours ahead," Modi wrote.India pulled off a stunning chase, reaching 339 for nine to overhaul Pakistan's target of 338.
With three runs needed off the final ball, Mohit Ulva struck a boundary off Ahmed Hussain to seal the title for India. Union Home Minister Amit Shah also congratulated the team, praising the players for their fight and determination."A thrilling victory!
Applause for the Indian cricket team on winning the Men's U19 Asia Cup title, crowning the nation with joy and pride through your landmark triumph. The sheer grit, determination and unmatched sportsmanship you demonstrated on the pitch were a masterclass in India's cricketing excellence.
Your performance will inspire more budding cricketers to join the league of winners," Shah posted.India had a mountain to climb after slipping to 252 for eight in the 42nd over. Pakistan were just two wickets away from victory when Manal Chauhan and Mohit Ulva came together and added 57 runs for the ninth wicket.Manal made 47 off 32 balls before his dismissal left India needing 36 runs with one wicket in hand.
Mohit, however, kept India in the hunt and found an able partner in No. 11 batter C Venkata, who scored an unbeaten 11 off eight balls.India needed eight runs from the final over, and the equation came down to three off the last delivery.
Mohit held his nerve, sending Ahmed Hussain's delivery towards the long-off boundary to complete a memorable win.Earlier, captain Lakshya Raichandani scored 80 while Aaryavir Sehwag made 58 as the pair added 95 runs for the opening wicket. Their dismissals, along with that of Anvay Dravid, put India under pressure.Pakistan had earlier posted 337 for nine, thanks to opener Usman Khan's 107.
It proved a challenging target, but India's lower order came to the rescue when the team needed it most.- Ends