Prime Minister Announces Rs 10 Million Reward for Each Under-19 Asia Cup Champion
Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met the victorious Pakistan Under-19 cricket team, winners of the Under-19 Asia Cup, and announced a cash reward of Rs 10 million for each player in recognition of their outstanding performance.
The Prime Minister hosted a luncheon in honor of the young cricketers and congratulated the team and management on their emphatic victory against arch-rivals India. Chairman Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Mohsin Naqvi and federal ministers were also present on the occasion.
Speaking at a press conference after the meeting, head coach Shahid Anwar said the selection and preparation process began on June 17, 2025, with trials involving 70 young players. After the trials, a training camp of 30 players was organized. He added that the team’s objective before the Asia Cup was not only to win the trophy but also the hearts of cricket fans.
Team mentor Sarfaraz Ahmed expressed confidence following the title triumph, stating that the team would continue to deliver strong performances in upcoming tournaments. He confirmed that the Prime Minister had announced Rs 10 million for each young player, acknowledging the hard work of both the players and the coaching staff.
Sarfaraz Ahmed said the Prime Minister paid tribute to the entire Under-19 squad and expressed hope that the team would win more trophies in the future. He also praised Sameer Ahmed for playing a brilliant innings and Usman Khan for building a crucial partnership.
Captain Farhan Yousaf said the management provided full support to the players, adding that every member of the team played an important role in winning the Asia Cup. He quoted Sarfaraz Ahmed as saying, “Even if you lose, the defeat is ours; the victory is yours.”
It is worth noting that Pakistan Under-19 team defeated India by a massive margin of 191 runs in the Asia Cup final. The victorious squad returned home late Sunday night to a warm and enthusiastic reception.
Earlier, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi had also announced a reward of Rs 5 million for each player and assured the team of continued support, including medical facilities and other essential needs, to help them perform at their best and bring further glory to the country.
