Sameer Minhas didn’t just play an innings — he announced himself to world cricket.
In the U19 Asia Cup 2025 final on December 21, the young Pakistani batter delivered a performance that will be remembered for years. Facing arch-rivals India at the ICC Academy Ground, Dubai, Minhas smashed a breathtaking 172 runs, powering Pakistan to a huge 191-run victory and sealing the title in style.
A Final for the History Books
Batting with fearless intent, Sameer Minhas tore apart the Indian bowling attack, scoring 172 off just 113 balls, decorated with 17 fours and 9 sixes. He brought up his century in only 71 balls, setting a new record for the highest individual score in a U19 Asia Cup final, surpassing Sami Aslam’s 134 from 2012.
Key partnerships defined the innings:
92 runs with Usman Khan
137 runs with Ahmed Hussain
Pakistan posted a commanding 347/8, a total that instantly tilted the final in their favor.
Dominance Throughout the Tournament
Minhas wasn’t a one-match wonder.
On his Youth ODI debut vs Malaysia, he smashed an unbeaten 177 off 148 balls, part of a massive 293-run partnership
In the semi-final, he calmly added an unbeaten half-century
In the final, he went full throttle — exposing every weakness in India’s attack
His dismissal came only via a mishit off Deepesh Devendran, but by then, the damage was irreversible.
India Overwhelmed, Pakistan Crowned
Chasing 348, India never settled. Their batting collapsed to 156 all out in just 26.2 overs, underlining Pakistan’s complete dominance.
Fans on social media quickly branded Minhas as the “villain of Indian hearts”, while experts praised his composure, shot selection, and big-match temperament. Under captain Farhan Yousaf, Pakistan lifted the U19 Asia Cup with authority.
Cricket Runs in His Blood
Sameer Minhas comes from a cricketing family. His elder brother Arafat Minhas has already represented Pakistan in 4 T20Is and featured in the PSL for Karachi Kings and Multan Sultans.
At just 17–18 years old, Sameer’s calm under pressure and explosive stroke play hint at a future far beyond age-group cricket.
This wasn’t just a knock. This was a warning.
If Sameer Minhas continues this rise, Pakistan may have found their next big-match opener — and world cricket has a new name to remember.
