Sarfaraz criticises India’s ‘unethical’ conduct during U19 Asia Cup

Pakistan Under-19 cricket team mentor and former captain Sarfaraz Ahmed has criticised India’s conduct during the ACC Men’s U19 Asia Cup 2025 final, describing it as “unethical”, while emphasising that Pakistan celebrated their victory with sportsmanship.

Pakistan clinched their maiden U19 Asia Cup title with a dominant performance in the final, defeating India by 191 runs. After posting a commanding total of 348, Pakistan bowled India out for 156 in 26.2 overs to seal their first-ever title in the tournament’s 35-year history.

Speaking at a press conference in Islamabad on Monday, Sarfaraz addressed questions regarding on-field behaviour during the final, saying India’s actions did not reflect the spirit of the game.

“India’s behaviour regarding the game was not good, and the conduct was unethical. However, we celebrated the victory with sportsmanship, because sportsmanship should always be upheld in cricket,” Sarfaraz said, without elaborating further on the incidents.

The former Pakistan captain also revealed that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has announced a cash reward of Rs10 million for each player in recognition of the team’s historic achievement.