BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia defends India U19 after Asia Cup final celebrations

BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia defended India’s Under-19 players after their one-wicket victory over Pakistan in the Under-19 Asia Cup final in Oman on Saturday, saying the youngsters had the right to show emotion after a tense finish. Saikia told ANI the celebrations reflected the team’s character and fighting spirit.

Asked about the aggressive nature of the celebrations following India’s win, Saikia said the players’ reaction was a response to a match that had threatened to slip away. "That reflects their character and fighting spirit. Consider how much of a cliffhanger today's match was. At one point, it really didn't look like it was in India's favour. Yet, India managed to win. This speaks volumes about the team's confidence level and their 'never-say-die' attitude," Saikia said. "When they win a match from such a difficult position, they certainly deserve to celebrate. That's something we must allow," he added.

India chased down Pakistan’s 337 for 9 to win by one wicket, recovering from a position in which they were eight wickets down and required 86 runs from 51 balls. The finish produced dramatic scenes and widespread attention on social media.

A ninth-wicket stand between Manal Chauhan and Mohit Ulva provided a vital lifeline late in the chase. Manal made 47 off 32 balls while Ulva remained unbeaten on 49 from 26 deliveries, and Chigurupati Venkata also contributed before Ulva struck the winning boundary off the final ball.

Celebrations on the field were immediate, with players running onto the turf and Ulva wrapped in the tricolour. However, footage circulated that appeared to show some Indian players making gestures towards Pakistan wicketkeeper Hamza Zahoor and his team-mates, prompting criticism from sections of fans.

Members of India’s support staff also appeared to become involved during the on-field scenes, which intensified debate about the appropriateness of some actions during the celebrations. The match result and the manner of the finish left opinions divided over whether certain gestures went too far.

Saikia has made it clear that the BCCI sees the celebrations as an expression of the team's fighting spirit. Whether everyone agrees with that view is another matter.