‘Sarfaraz kabhi dhoka nahi deta’: Mohsin Naqvi urged to back former cricketer for T20 WC role after U19 Asia Cup win

PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi found himself at the centre of fan attention after Pakistan’s Under-19 team thrashed India by 191 runs in the U19 Asia Cup final in Dubai on Sunday, with supporters urging him to appoint former skipper Sarfaraz Ahmed as mentor for the 2026 T20 World Cup, Times of India reported.

Following the final, a video from the stadium went viral on social media. In the clip, a passionate Pakistan fan stopped Naqvi as he was leaving the venue and praised Sarfaraz, and said, “Sarfaraz kabhi dhoka nahi deta” (“Sarfaraz never lets you down”).

The fan then made an emotional appeal, adding, “He won you the Champions Trophy in 2017. Today, we won another title. Please make him the mentor for the T20 World Cup (2026). Please.” Naqvi listened with a smile and responded with a thumbs-up, a gesture that quickly excited fans online.



Sarfaraz, though not playing, was a key figure in the win as the mentor of the U19 side, watching the final from the dugout. The victory was significant as it marked the third time Pakistan defeated India in a final with Sarfaraz involved.

In 2004, Sarfaraz captained Pakistan to victory against India in the ICC U19 World Cup final. In 2017, he led the senior team to a famous Champions Trophy win over India in England. On Sunday, Pakistan once again beat their biggest rivals in a final, with Sarfaraz guiding the team from the sidelines.

The triumph also ended a long wait for Pakistan, who lifted the U19 Asia Cup for the first time in 13 years and only the second time in their history.

In the final, Pakistan piled up 347 for eight, powered by Sameer Minhas, who struck a commanding 172 off 113 balls. India’s chase began with intent but unraveled quickly after captain Ayush Mhatre was dismissed early.

Pakistan’s fast bowlers Ali Raza, Mohammad Sayyam and Abdul Subhan bowled with pace and discipline, taking regular wickets. India were eventually bowled out for 156 in 26.2 overs, sealing a one-sided and memorable win for Pakistan.

(With inputs from TOI)