Aaron George: India U19’s Ice-Cold Run Machine

Aaron George
Calm under fire, classy at the crease — India’s next big batting anchor is here.

 

Aaron George, the 19-year-old India U19 batter from Hyderabad (born in Kottayam, Kerala), is fast becoming one of the most dependable names in youth cricket. Known for his composed strokeplay and pressure-handling ability, George’s rise has drawn frequent comparisons to Sanju Samson — elegant, fearless, and clutch when it matters most.

Table of Contents

Recent Match Highlights

Aaron George announced his big-match temperament in the third Youth ODI against South Africa U19 in Benoni on January 7, 2026. Chasing under pressure, he crafted a gritty century off just 91 balls, perfectly complementing Vaibhav Suryavanshi’s explosive start.

George brought up his hundred with a calm single off Jason Rowles — a moment that reflected his maturity, game awareness, and ability to anchor high-pressure chases without panic.

U19 Asia Cup Brilliance

During the U19 Asia Cup in December 2025, George played one of his most defining knocks against Pakistan in Dubai. Walking in after early wickets, he stabilized the innings with a composed 85 off 88 balls, laced with 12 fours and a six.

He stitched vital partnerships of 49 and 60 runs, rescuing India from collapse. Earlier in the tournament, his fluent 69 off 73 balls against UAE helped India post a massive 433, showcasing his timing and ability to find gaps against disciplined bowling attacks.

Career Background

Leadership has been second nature to Aaron George. He has captained sides since the 2022–23 Vijay Merchant Trophy, where he stunned the domestic circuit with an unbeaten 303 against Bihar.

Under his captaincy, Hyderabad lifted the Vinoo Mankad Trophy, ending a 38-year title drought. Across two seasons, he amassed 341 and 373 runs, underlining both consistency and leadership credentials. His performances also earned him the role of captain for India-B in a triangular series.

Batting Style & Inspirations

Born on October 1, 2006, the right-handed batter also bowls right-arm medium. George idolizes AB de Villiers, drawing inspiration from his versatility, innovation, and calm mindset.

Off the field, he enjoys strong backing from his father, Easo Varghese — a former league cricketer turned corporate professional — who has played a key role in shaping his disciplined approach to the game.

Future Prospects

Aaron George’s ability to deliver ice-cool performances under pressure makes him a reliable top-order anchor for India U19. With upcoming youth tours on the horizon, his consistency could fast-track him into senior domestic cricket discussions.

While a minor tennis elbow concern surfaced during mid-January practice sessions, early signs suggest it is being carefully managed. If fitness holds, George looks primed to ride the current Team India practice buzz straight into the next level.

In a generation full of flashy hitters, Aaron George stands out for his calm head, clean technique, and match-winning temperament. Indian cricket may soon be hearing this name far more often.

 

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172 Runs. One Final. A New Fear Unlocked for India, Sameer Minhas

Sameer Minhas

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.

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