India U-19 team under fire over inappropriate gestures in Asia Cup final
The celebrations by Indian players following their thrilling victory over Pakistan have sparked controversy on social media. Several videos circulating online appear to show Indian players making inappropriate gestures and using abusive language towards their Pakistani opponents.
Indian players’ celebrations spark controversy
The incident reportedly took place after Mohit Ulva hit the winning boundary on the final delivery at the Al-Amerat Cricket Ground in Muscat. India secured a dramatic one-wicket victory in the U-19 Asia Cup final on Saturday.
Videos shared on social media appeared to show some Indian players making inappropriate gestures towards Pakistan wicketkeeper-batter Hamza Zahoor. One clip also appeared to show Manal Chauhan among the players involved in the gestures.
Other videos showed Indian players celebrating aggressively in front of their Pakistani opponents. The scenes quickly attracted attention and raised questions about the players’ behaviour after the match.
Handshake exchange also draws attention
Reports also suggested that there was no immediate exchange of handshakes between the two teams after the final delivery. Indian players rushed onto the field to celebrate their victory, while a member of their support staff was seen trying to calm them down.
The videos triggered criticism from cricket fans and social media users. Many questioned whether such celebrations were in line with the spirit of cricket, despite acknowledging India's achievement in winning a closely contested final.
The alleged gestures towards Hamza Zahoor also attracted strong reactions from Pakistani supporters and former cricketers. Several users said that winning a match should not become a reason to disrespect opponents.
Fawad Chaudhry and journalist react
Former federal minister Fawad Chaudhry also criticised the behaviour shown in the videos. Reacting to the incident on X, he wrote, “This guy should be sent to school instead of [a] cricket ground,”.
Journalist Fahd Hussain also responded to one of Chaudhry’s posts and described the cricketer as a “disgrace to more than just Indian cricket”. His remarks added to the criticism surrounding the celebrations.
Ahmed Shahzad calls for better sportsmanship
Former Pakistan cricketer Ahmed Shahzad congratulated the Indian team on its victory but said celebrations should show happiness rather than aggression or hostility. He stressed that young players must learn to respect their opponents, regardless of the match result.
“These are young players, and it’s important we teach them that the spirit of the game goes beyond the result,” Shahzad posted on X. He also said, “Unfortunately, the seniors have carried forward certain traditions that need to change. It’s time we evolve, show respect for the opposition and embrace true sportsmanship,”.
India’s victory was a major achievement in a closely fought final, but the celebrations have shifted attention towards player behaviour. The incident has also started a wider discussion about sportsmanship and respect between rival teams.
Young cricketers learn from their seniors, both on and off the field. Respecting opponents after victory is just as important as playing well and winning a match.
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