New Delhi (India) November 15: Devajit Saikia, the BCCI secretary, has defended the team's Under-19 players, whose celebrations after winning a nail-biting Asia Cup final was the subject of criticism and debate, saying youngsters have a right to celebrate after winning a miracle victory.

Saikia Backs Young Players

Secretary Saikia was asked about the boisterous celebrations of India following their thrilling one-wicket win against Pakistan in Oman on Saturday. 

"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 to ANI.

"When they win a match from such a difficult position, they certainly deserve to celebrate. That's something we must allow," he added.

Post-Match Gestures Face Criticism

Saikia's remarks were made after India's celebrations after their match-winning boundary off the final ball of Mohit Ulva's over made headlines. The players were naturally jubilant and a few social media videos allegedly showed some of them making inappropriate gestures towards their opponents from Pakistan, attracting criticism from some fans.

Saikia was quick to clarify that the BCCI consider these celebrations as victory roars of the team.

Saikia Advises Focus On Cricket

Saikia also spoke on the issues of the prize money and the monetary incentives for the boys. He expressed his hope that the team should stick to the game and not think of money at this stage of their careers.

"These are still young players-please don't bring up topics like prize money or financial rewards; they should be focusing entirely on their game. They will have their whole lives to earn prize money, but the experience and confidence they've gained today will serve as a massive impetus for their future careers. Nothing could be more valuable than that," he said.

India Scripts One-Wicket Victory

India completed an incredible run chase in U-19 Asia Cup final to beat Pakistan by one wicket. India was 86 runs away with eight wickets down and the chase seemed all but lost. Manal Chauhan and Mohit Ulva then provided India a much-needed partnership. Manal scored a 32-ball 47 and Ulva was not out on a 26-ball 49.

The drama continued after the win. Indian players scrambled on to the ground. Clips emerged which appeared to show India players making gestures towards the Pakistan wicketkeeper Hamza Zahoor. Indian support staff also appeared to intervene in the celebrations.