BCCI to seek explanation from team management after India handed a thrashing by Pakistan in U19 Asia Cup final: Report

By Admin

23 Dec, 2025

BCCI Initiates Review After Final Loss
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to conduct a detailed review of India’s performance in the recently concluded U19 Asia Cup, following a heavy defeat against arch-rivals Pakistan in the final. Despite a dominant run throughout the tournament, the Ayush Mhatre-led Indian side faltered at the final hurdle, prompting the board to seek explanations from the team management.

A Perfect Campaign, Until the Final
India entered the summit clash in Dubai with a flawless record, having won all their matches convincingly. Expectations were high for the young side to cap off the campaign with a title win. However, the final told a very different story, as India appeared a pale shadow of the team that had dominated the competition earlier.

Pakistan’s Commanding Performance
Pakistan delivered a ruthless performance in the final, posting a massive 347/8 in their allotted 50 overs. India’s bowlers struggled to contain the flow of runs, while the fielding lacked the sharpness seen in previous matches. In reply, the Indian batting lineup collapsed under pressure and was bundled out for just 156, resulting in a crushing 191-run defeat.

Apex Council Meeting and Decision to Review
According to a report by Cricbuzz, the decision to review India’s U19 Asia Cup performance was taken during an online apex council meeting held on Monday. The BCCI members discussed the team’s overall showing in the tournament and unanimously felt that the nature of the final loss warranted a deeper assessment.

Explanations Sought from Team Management
The BCCI is expected to seek formal explanations from the team management after India failed to put up a competitive challenge in the final. A routine report has been requested from team manager Salil Datar. However, in a move that goes beyond standard procedure, the board will also hold discussions with head coach Hrishikesh Kanitkar and captain Ayush Mhatre to better understand what went wrong on the big day.

Concerns Over On-Field Conduct
It remains unclear whether the BCCI will also address concerns regarding player conduct during the high-pressure final. The match saw tempers flare when Indian batters Vaibhav Suryavanshi and captain Ayush Mhatre were involved in verbal exchanges with Pakistan pacer Ali Raza after their dismissals. Such incidents, especially in age-group cricket, could also come under scrutiny during the review.

Looking Ahead
While losses are part of the learning curve in junior cricket, the manner of India’s defeat in the U19 Asia Cup final has clearly raised red flags for the BCCI. The upcoming review is expected to focus not just on tactics and execution, but also on temperament and discipline, as the board looks to ensure that India’s future stars are better prepared for high-pressure encounters on the international stage.