Al Amerat, November 14, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Pakistan U19 captain Farhan Yousaf won the toss and elected to bat first against India in the U19 Asia Cup final at the Al Amerat Cricket Ground on Saturday, while India suffered a setback with their leading wicket-taker Ishan Sood ruled out due to a back niggle.
Pakistan retained the same playing XI that defeated Bangladesh in the semi-final. India, meanwhile, made one change to the side that beat Afghanistan, bringing in Chigurupati Venkata in place of Sood.
“We want to bat first. The pitch looks good for batting, so that’s why we want to bat. Now we are looking forward to the final and going full strength,” Pakistan captain Farhan Yousaf said after the toss.
India captain Lakshya Rajesh Raichandani said he was happy to bowl first, adding that the team’s batting had peaked at the right time. He confirmed that Sood’s back niggle had prompted the change, with Venkata taking his place.
India are aiming for a record-extending ninth U19 Asia Cup title and will also be seeking to avenge their defeat against Pakistan in last year’s final. Pakistan, having claimed its second title in 2025, will be looking to defend the crown.
Pakistan have reached the final unbeaten, while India have lost only once in the tournament – against Pakistan during the group stage.
India’s batting campaign has been spearheaded by Aaryavir Sehwag, who has amassed 303 runs in four matches at an average of 101, including a century and two half-centuries. Sood has also been a key contributor with the ball, making his absence a significant concern for India.
Playing XIs
India U19: Lakshya Rajesh Raichandani (captain), Aaryavir Sehwag, VK Vineeth, Yashbardhan Chauhan, Arjun Rajput, Anvay Dravid (wicketkeeper), Manal Chauhan, Mohit Ulva, Aryan Savsani, Kavya Patel, Chigurupati Venkata.
Pakistan U19: Usman Khan, Hayam Khan, Abdul Qadir, Farhan Yousaf (captain), Ahmed Hussain, Ali Raza, Hamza Zahoor (wicketkeeper), Hasnain Abbas Dar, Mohammad Sayyam, Rizwanullah, Niqab Shafiq.
FOLLOW NOW
