Pakistan Under-19 cricket team mentor Sarfaraz Ahmed said that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has announced Rs 10 million for the winning team in Asia Cup 2025.
A press conference was held with the trophy at a private hotel. Head coach Shahid Anwar, mentor Sarfaraz Ahmed, and Pakistan Cricket Board officials were present at the press conference.
Head coach Shahid Anwar said the team had decided early on to play fearless cricket. He explained that the core plan was to encourage one another and aim not only to win the trophy but also to win hearts.
He revealed that the preparation process began on June 17, when 70 players were called for trials, after which selected players were given opportunities in the ODI tournament.
Mentor Sarfaraz Ahmed shared details of the team’s meeting with the prime minister earlier in the day, saying the encouragement from the top leadership lifted the players’ spirits. He confirmed that the prime minister announced Rs10 million each for the players in recognition of their achievement.
Sarfaraz expressed hope that this squad would go on to win many more trophies for Pakistan.
The Pakistan U-19 cricket team was given a rousing reception at Islamabad International Airport upon their return from Dubai, where they clinched the Asia Cup title by defeating India in the final on Sunday.
According to details, the players and support staff were welcomed by Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chief Operating Officer Sameer Ahmed Syed, Director High Performance Aqib Javed, and other PCB officials.
A large crowd of cricket enthusiasts gathered at the airport to congratulate the team on their historic victory.
The team’s triumphant journey was marked by celebrations, including a cake-cutting ceremony on the PIA flight, where passengers, pilots, and crew members joined in to congratulate the young champions.
The players also took selfies with the enthusiastic passengers and staff.
The atmosphere was electric, with fireworks lighting up the sky as the team made their way from the plane to the airport terminal. The team’s victory was met with widespread acclaim, with many expressing their pride and admiration for the young cricketers.
“Pakistan U-19 team has made the nation proud,” said a passenger.
“This is a moment of great pride for us. We pray that Pakistan sees many more such days.”
Also read: Under-19 Asia Cup final: Pakistan reign supreme after beating India
