Islamabad (Web Desk): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif warmly received the Pakistan Under-19 cricket team on Monday in Islamabad to celebrate their remarkable triumph in the Asia Cup, particularly their historic victory over India in the final.
To celebrate their achievement, the prime minister hosted a special luncheon in Islamabad, bringing together the young champions and their supporters.
On this occasion, the premier announced a cash reward of Rs10 million for each member of Pakistan’s Under-19 cricket team following their triumph in the Asia Cup.
In addition to the players, the prime minister also recognized the team’s management, awarding each member Rs2.5 million for their guidance and efforts in leading the squad to victory.
Speaking on the occasion, he praised the young athletes for their dedication, perseverance, and composure under pressure, acknowledging the pride they had brought to the nation.
Meeting each player and member of the coaching staff individually, the prime minister extended his heartfelt congratulations to the entire squad. He noted that their stellar performances had captivated 240 million Pakistanis and highlighted the growing strength of the country’s youth cricket.
Emphasizing the significance of defeating India, he described the victory as a symbol of Pakistan’s bright cricketing future.
“The way you prepared, performed, and managed pressure shows remarkable maturity for your age,” the prime minister said. “You have brought immense honour to Pakistan and reinforced confidence in our youth cricket program.”
He singled out outstanding contributors, applauding Samir Manaz for his remarkable 172-run innings, Under-19 captain Farhan Yousuf Khan for his inspiring leadership, Ali Raza for his game-changing bowling spells, and Abdul Subhan for claiming 13 wickets throughout the tournament.
He also recognized the efforts of all other batters, bowlers, wicketkeepers, trainers, and support staff, underscoring that teamwork had been key to the squad’s success.
PM Shehbaz reaffirmed the government’s commitment to nurturing young talent, offering prayers for their continued success and encouraging them to stay focused on securing positions in the national team in the years ahead.
Earlier, Interior Minister and Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi praised the team’s professionalism, particularly during the tense moments of the final match.
He highlighted the players’ remarkable restraint in the face of provocations, noting that they remained focused solely on the game. “Our boys kept cricket and politics separate. Their discipline and fearless approach to the game were rewarded with victory,” he remarked.
Mohsin Naqvi also revealed that construction had begun on a modern High Performance Centre in Lahore, aimed at replacing the outdated facility. He explained that the new centre would offer state-of-the-art training resources, providing young cricketers with advanced preparation for international competition. “In a few months, we will inaugurate a world-class facility that will help players meet global standards,” he added
Speaking on behalf of the team, captain Farhan Yousuf Khan thanked the prime minister and the PCB for their unwavering support. He emphasized that well-organized training camps and strong guidance from the management had been vital to their success.
“Even after setbacks, the management encouraged us and strengthened our confidence. We aim to carry this momentum into upcoming tri-series and the World Cup,” he said.
Several players echoed the captain’s sentiments, praising the coaches for their focused preparation over the last four to six months. They explained that attention to technical skills, including bowling actions, consistency, and mental conditioning, enabled them to perform under pressure. They credited belief in the process, diligent practice, and clear game plans as key factors behind their achievements.
The young cricketers expressed deep gratitude to the PCB, coaching staff, and support personnel for creating a positive environment and organizing effective camps. They said the recognition at the highest level had inspired them to work even harder, with hopes of achieving greater success in future international tournaments.