Sameer Minhas sets sights on U19 World Cup
BULAWAYO: Rising star Sameer Minhas is all set to make a mark on the biggest stage as Pakistan team aim for glory at the ICC Men’s U19 World Cup.
The Multan batter, who has recently delivered match-winning performances in both the ACC U19 Asia Cup and a record-breaking tri-series in Zimbabwe, says his focus is clear: winning the tournament for Pakistan. Sameer’s cricketing journey began far from professional grounds—in the tiled floor of his home, where water-slicked tiles and taped tennis balls became his first training arena.
His father, a cricketer whose own playing ambitions were cut short, encouraged him and his elder brother, Arafat Minhas, to pursue the game seriously. “My father saw how much we enjoyed cricket and asked us to try the leather ball,” Sameer recalls. “My brother started first and then I followed. That moment changed everything.”
From street cricket to structured pathways, Sameer progressed steadily. He represented Multan Region at U13 level in the 2018-19 season, later captaining South Punjab U13 and leading the team to the final. He then played for Southern Punjab at U16 level, featuring in the PCB National U16 One-Day Tournament 2020-21, and was selected in PCB’s 100-player programme.
Transitioning to U19 cricket came with its challenges, but last year’s National U19 Cup saw Sameer score over 400 runs in seven matches, earning him a Pakistan U19 cap. His brother Arafat, who has represented Pakistan in four T20Is, continues to be a major source of inspiration. “Representing Pakistan is not easy,” Sameer admits. “It takes a lot of hard work and expectations are always high.”
Sameer rose to the occasion in the ACC Men’s U19 Asia Cup final, scoring a match-winning century to guide Pakistan to a 191-run victory over arch-rivals India in Dubai. In Zimbabwe’s tri-series, he set a new record, reflecting his growing stature as a key player in the squad. “I just wanted to contribute to the team,” Sameer said of his record-breaking innings. “After my half-century, I decided to accelerate. When I saw the PCB post about the new record, it was an incredible feeling. Representing Pakistan and making a mark like that is something special.”
Beyond individual achievements, he credits Pakistan U19’s strong team unity as the foundation of their success. Months of training camps and shared experiences have forged a bond that proved decisive in recent victories. “Our bonding is very strong,” he says. “That unity helped us win titles.”
Looking ahead to the World Cup, Sameer’s goals are straightforward: “Our simple plan is to win the World Cup. Personally, my first goal is to win it for Pakistan. The second is to become player of the tournament.” Drawing inspiration from AB de Villiers for his fearless approach, the 19-year-old is confident that Pakistan U19 can achieve their ambitions. Thanking fans for their unwavering support, he urged everyone to continue backing the team ahead of the mega event. Web Desk
