Rishabh Pant fires up India with emotional message ahead of U19 World Cup final

Rishabh Pant sends emotional message to India U19 team. [Source - @bcci/x]

India U19 stand one win away from scripting history as they prepare to face England in the World Cup final on February 6 in Harare. Ayush Mhatre and his men arrive brimming with confidence after a record-breaking chase against Afghanistan in the semifinal.

Unbeaten throughout the tournament, India U19 have showcased composure, firepower, and resilience under pressure. Their commanding semifinal triumph reaffirmed their title chances and strengthened belief within the camp as they eye a record-extending sixth U19 Men’s World Cup crown.

As the final beckons, wishes have poured in from fans and cricketing figures alike. Among them, Rishabh Pant’s heartfelt message stood out, striking an emotional chord as India’s young guns gear up for the biggest match of their careers.

Rishabh Pant wishes Ayush Mhatre’s team ahead of U19 World Cup final

Rishabh Pant took to X on Thursday to extend his best wishes to the India U19 team ahead of their summit clash against England. The Indian wicketkeeper-batter lauded the boys for playing “amazing cricket” and urged them to cherish every moment of the occasion.

“All the best to the U-19 boys. You are playing some amazing cricket. From my U19 experience, I can say these moments are priceless, so enjoy them with your teammates and give it your best,” Pant tweeted.

Pant, who represented India at the U19 World Cup a decade ago, understands the weight of such moments. Having finished as runners-up in the 2016 final, he knows how fitting and priceless these opportunities are and encouraged the youngsters to enjoy the journey while giving their absolute best.

Pant highlights pride of representing India at any level

Pant emphasised that wearing the India jersey is a matter of immense pride for any Indian at any level. These U19 players have invested nearly two years of relentless effort to reach this stage, overcoming challenges and evolving into a formidable side on the global stage.

“Playing for India is always a proud moment, at any level. Enjoy the occasion, play with heart, wear the jersey with pride and get the cup home,” Pant added.

India’s heartbreak against Australia in the 2024 edition still hurts, and this final offers a chance for redemption. Pant urged Ayush Mhatre and his boys to play with heart, shine under pressure, wear the badge with pride, and bring the coveted trophy home for the nation.

Pant relives U19 legacy as India’s next generation chases history

Pant’s message carried a sense of nostalgia, taking him back to his own U19 days when dreams were raw and limitless. He has since become part of Indian cricket’s modern story, shaped by the same junior system now nurturing another generation.

India U19 cricket has long been a factory of future stars, right from Yuvraj Singh, Virat Kohli, Shubman Gill, Ishan Kishan, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Pant himself. Each carried the legacy forward, raising the bar for those who followed.

Now, as Ayush Mhatre’s men stand on the brink of history, Pant’s words feel symbolic. A former U19 warrior passing the baton, hoping the next generation rises, gets their best out in the moment, and adds another golden chapter to India’s storied junior cricket legacy.