NEW DELHI: A disciplined bowling display, led by all-rounder Kanishk Chouhan and seamer Deepesh Devendran, powered India to a commanding 90-run victory over Pakistan in their Group A match of the Under-19 Asia Cup on Sunday.

After being asked to bat first, India posted a competitive 240 all out in 46.1 overs, anchored by a fluent 85 from Aaron George and useful contributions from captain Ayush Mhatre (38) and Chouhan (46).

George shines as India post strong total

India got off to a brisk start, with Mhatre striking four boundaries and three sixes during his 25-ball innings before Mohammad Sayyam removed both openers inside the first 10 overs.

George then steadied the innings, finding gaps consistently and guiding India through the middle overs. Chouhan’s late assault, including three sixes, helped India surpass the 230-run mark despite losing wickets at regular intervals.

For Pakistan, Sayyam (3/67) and Abdul Subhan (3/42) were the pick of the bowlers, with Niqab Shafiq picking up two wickets.

Pakistan falter in chase despite Ahsan’s fight

Pakistan’s chase collapsed early as they slipped to 30 for four, with Devendran claiming three wickets in a sharp opening spell.

Captain Farhan Yousaf (23) and Huzaifa Ahsan tried to rebuild, but Chouhan’s incisive off-spin broke the resistance. Ahsan top-scored with 70 off 83 balls but lacked support at the other end.

Chouhan finished with 3 for 33, while Devendran returned figures of 3 for 16, keeping India firmly in control throughout and registering a dominant victory in this marquee Group A clash.

The players of both sides did not shake hands at the toss or after the match, following the 'no-handshake' protocol observed by the Indian men’s team during the recently concluded Asia Cup 2025, where they also declined to receive the winner's trophy from PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi.

(With PTI Inputs)