U19 Asia Cup Provides a Glimpse into U19 World Cup Prospects

The U19 Asia Cup 2025, which wrapped up its group stage in Dubai on December 17, provided a valuable preview of the ICC Under-19 Men's Cricket World Cup 2026. South Asian teams India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan all participated, using the tournament as an opportunity to fine-tune their strategies and assess their talent before the World Cup, scheduled from January 15 to February 6.

Here's a look at some key takeaways from the group stage:

**India's Dominant Form**

Team India showcased impressive form, securing three victories in as many matches in Group A. Their campaign began with a high-scoring game against the UAE, where they amassed 433/6. Vaibhav Suryavanshi's remarkable 171 off 95 balls was the highlight, leading to a decisive 234-run win. India then followed up with a solid victory over Pakistan, defending a total of 240 with a disciplined bowling performance to win by 90 runs. They concluded the group stage with another massive total, exceeding 400 runs against Malaysia and winning by 315 runs. Abhigyan Kundu's unbeaten 209 stood out, making him the first Indian to achieve a double century in Youth ODIs.

**Pakistan's Batting Potential**

Pakistan's performance in the group stage revealed batting talent, but also highlighted areas for improvement. In their opening match against Malaysia, Sameer Minhas (177*) and Ahmed Hussain (132) propelled Pakistan to 345, setting the stage for a dominant 297-run victory, with the bowlers dismissing Malaysia for just 48. That said, the reality is a bit more complicated. against India, the batting lineup faltered under pressure, struggling to build momentum after restricting India to 240. Huzaifa Ahsan's 70 was a notable exception in a 90-run defeat. Pakistan rebounded against the UAE, with contributions from Sameer Minhas (44), Ahmed Hussain (65), and Hamza Zahoor (42) enabling them to post 241, which proved sufficient as the UAE were bowled out for 171. Throughout the group stage, Pakistan's pace attack, led by Mohammad Sayyam and Abdul Subhan (seven wickets each), consistently challenged opponents with the new ball.

**Sri Lanka's Mixed Performance**

Sri Lanka displayed promise in their initial matches. Against Nepal, their bowlers excelled, dismissing the opposition for only 82. Sethmika Seneviratne shone with figures of 5/25. Seneviratne continued his form with three wickets against Afghanistan, restricting them to 235. Viran Chamuditha (62) and Chamika Heenatigala (51*) then scored half-centuries to help Sri Lanka secure a narrow victory. That said, the reality is a bit more complicated. in their final group match, despite Kavija Gamade's 4/38 restricting Bangladesh to 225, Sri Lanka suffered their first defeat of the tournament.

**Bangladesh's Undefeated Streak**

Bangladesh heads into the U19 World Cup with momentum after winning all three of their group games. They successfully chased down 284 against Afghanistan, thanks to Zawad Abrar's explosive 96 and Rifat Beg's composed 62. Their opening partnership of 151 set up a three-wicket victory. They then delivered a strong bowling performance against Nepal, dismissing them for 130, with Md Sobuj taking three wickets and Saad Islam, Shahriar Ahmed, and Azizul Hakim each claiming two. Abrar earned the Player of the Match award for his 70 off 68 balls. Abrar again played a key role against Sri Lanka, smashing 49 off 36 balls, while Rifat Beg (36) and Kalam Siddiki (32) contributed to a total of 225. Iqbal Hossain Emon (3/37) and Shahriar Ahmed (3/28) ensured Bangladesh remained undefeated.

**Afghanistan's Learning Experience**

Afghanistan's narrow defeats to Bangladesh and Sri Lanka indicate their competitiveness, but also their inability to close out games against stronger teams. While their batting showed potential, bowling inconsistencies proved costly, especially in the first two matches where they struggled to defend totals. They managed a consolation victory against Nepal in their final match, finishing third in their group. Faisal Shinozada was a standout performer with the bat, scoring 103, 39, and 13 in his three innings. Osman Sadat also contributed with 114 runs. Despite their early exit from the Asia Cup, Afghanistan can use these experiences to prepare for the U19 World Cup.