BCCI Logo (R) & India-Pakistan U19 face-off (Source: @SonyLIV/X & AFP Photos)
India’s ultra-aggressive celebration against Pakistan after U19 Asia Cup 2026 triumph became a topic of discussion ever since it took place on Saturday (November 14) in Al Amerat.
BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia addressed the subject, as the matter was so important that he had to speak on the matter from Bali, where he is currently for an important ICC board meeting.
BCCI Secretary Pats On India U19’s Back Despite Heated On-Field Aggression
Speaking to ANI, BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia lauded India U19 for producing a superb performance against Pakistan U19 in the final.
At the same time, he highlighted the fact that it was very obvious from Indian youngsters, who staged a spectacular comeback in order to win a nerve-racking thriller.
"That reflects their character and fighting spirit. Consider how much of a cliffhanger today’s match was—at one point, it really didn't look like it was in India’s favour... Yet, India managed to win," Saikia told ANI.
"This speaks volumes about the team's confidence level and their 'never-say-die' attitude. When they win a match from such a difficult position, they certainly deserve to celebrate; that’s something we must allow," he added.
Chasing 338, India U19 were down and out for 252/8 in 41.3 overs. Mohit Ulva then produced a gem of a knock to see off the target on the very last delivery with just one wicket in hand.
Saikia Sees Bright Future For India’s U19 Stars
Furthermore, Saikia mentioned that the heroes of India U19, which included the likes of Aaryavir Sehwag, Anvay Dravid and Lakshya Rajesh Raichandani, among others, will have plenty of opportunities in the times to come. Therefore, this is not the time where they focus on awards.
"These are still young players—please don’t bring up topics like prize money or financial rewards; they should be focusing entirely on their game. They will have their whole lives to earn prize money, but the experience and confidence they’ve gained today will serve as a massive impetus for their future careers," Saikia stated.
Fittingly, Ulva hit the winning runs when India U19 required three runs off the last ball. Pakistan’s Ahmed Hussain was at the receiving end of it.
