'They should be focusing entirely on their game' - BCCI secretary on U19 players and prize money
BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia defended India's animated celebrations following their thrilling one-wicket victory in the U19 Asia Cup final at Al Amerat on November 14, 2026.
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At Al Amerat Cricket Ground in Muscat on November 14, 2026, India claimed their ninth U-19 Asia Cup title with a dramatic one-wicket victory over Pakistan. The Under-19 side chased down Pakistan's 337 for 9, reaching 339 for 9 in a match that swung decisively in the final over. Mohit Ulva struck the winning drive over long-off off the last delivery to seal an extraordinary comeback after India's position appeared precarious at one stage.
The Board's secretary Devajit Saikia subsequently addressed the team's animated celebrations following the victory, emphasising that such displays reflected the character and resilience demonstrated throughout the contest. Saikia explained that the match had been a cliffhanger where India's position looked uncertain before the turnaround occurred. He highlighted the significance of the team's fighting spirit and their ability to recover from a difficult position.
"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. This speaks volumes about the team's confidence 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," Saikia was quoted as saying by NDTV Sports.
Lakshya Raichandani, the Indian captain, contributed 80 runs to the chase. Aaryavir Sehwag added 58 runs, while Manal Chauhan orchestrated a crucial comeback phase during the innings. Venkata struck an eight-ball 11 in his first appearance in the tournament, a contribution that proved vital in India's path to the title.
Aaryavir Sehwag video calls Virender after U19 Asia Cup win
What did Saikia say about prize money concerns?
Saikia also addressed concerns about prize money and financial rewards for the young players. He stressed that the squad should remain focused on their cricket rather than monetary considerations at this stage of their careers.
"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. Nothing could be more valuable than that," he added.
India's previous U-19 Asia Cup title came in 2021, when the team defeated Sri Lanka in the United Arab Emirates, making this victory a significant milestone in the squad's youth cricket history.
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