BCCI to seek answers after India’s heavy U-19 Asia Cup final loss to Pakistan

Summary: BCCI to review India U-19 performance, will seek explanations after lopsided Asia Cup final defeat.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has decided to take a closer look at India’s performance in the Under-19 Asia Cup after the team suffered a crushing defeat to Pakistan in the final in Dubai. What was an unbeaten run to the title decider ended in a 191-run loss, and the cricket board now wants accountability from the management and leadership. 

The Indian side — captained by Ayush Mhatre and featuring young stars like Vaibhav Suryavanshi — had dominated earlier matches but were outplayed in the final. Pakistan posted a massive total and then dismissed India for just 156, leaving little room for a competitive chase. 

According to reports, the BCCI plans to seek a detailed explanation from the team management, including discussions with head coach Hrishikesh Kanitkar and captain Mhatre. While it’s routine for the team manager to submit a report after tournaments, this review is expected to go “beyond the usual” process, showing how seriously the board views the unexpected collapse. 

There were also heated moments during the final, with tempers flaring between Indian batters and Pakistan bowlers after key dismissals — an aspect that may form part of the board’s review, although it isn’t clear yet if conduct will be scrutinised. 

The timing of the review is significant as the Under-19 World Cup is set for January-February 2026. The BCCI looks to be eager to detect and address shortcomings as early as possible, ensuring that the team is better equipped for the upcoming global event.