Last Updated on 25 minutes ago by Charbel Coorey
Mohit Ulva has pulled off a remarkable innings to guide India to a thrilling one-wicket win over Pakistan in the U19 Asia Cup Final at Al Almeerat. Batting at number 10, Ulva scored an unbeaten 49 off 26 balls – including a boundary off the final ball – to spark remarkable scenes.
Chasing 338, India looked gone at 252/8. Ulva added 57 with Manal Chauhan for the ninth wicket and then 30 with number 11 Chigurupati Venkata.
“I had belief in God in the last over. I believe myself to be an allrounder. This tournament had not gone well for me but I had believe that I would be able to deliver today. I needed Manal’s support which he provided,” Ulva said.
Manal Chauhan also played a fantastic knock, scoring a 32-ball 47 that included three fours and three sixes. Ulva himself hit five fours and three sixes.
Opener Aaryavir Sehwag, who copped a blow to his arm, says the pain is gone after a remarkable win. Sehwag (58) combined with captain Lakshiya Raichandani (80) for a 95-run stand in 17.4 overs to give India a platform before they stuttered badly in the middle overs.
“I don’t feel any pain in my hand anymore. I cannot believe what I have just witnessed. I still have goosebumps. Emotions are very high whenever it is India-Pakistan,” he said.
“As I had gotten out in the last match against them, I wanted to score today regardless of copping a blow on my arm. It was hurting but I knew if I stayed in the middle, it would keep pressure on Pakistan.”
IND vs PAK U19 Asia Cup Final Reactions: Mohit Ulva seals incredible chase of 339 for India
Earlier, Pakistan scored 337/9 courtesy of an excellent showing from their top order. Usman Khan hit 107 off 111 balls, while Abdul Qadir (80 off 54 balls) and Farhan Yousaf (63 off 60 balls) put India on the backfoot in the middle overs.
Pakistan were 299/3 after 44 overs and looked set for a 350+ score. However, their total looked good for much of India’s innings.
Fans and former players took to social media to express their views on a remarkable match, which finished with wild celebrations.
“The mettle and the courage to win a game from that position in the finals says a lot about them and the Determination and the fighting spirit and our sporting culture,” wrote Dinesh Karthik on X (formerly Twitter).
