ISLAMABAD Dec 22: A special reception was hosted by the Prime Minister in honor of the Asian Under-19 champion team, where Shehbaz Sharif personally welcomed and congratulated all the players. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, federal ministers, and cabinet members were also present on the occasion.
The Prime Minister met each player individually, shook hands with them, and praised their outstanding performance against India. He said the team had made the entire nation proud by raising Pakistan’s name on the international stage and congratulated them on their emphatic win. He added that the passion and determination shown by the players on the field were exemplary.
Shehbaz Sharif expressed hope that the players would maintain consistency in their performances and soon bring home the Under-19 World Cup as well. He directed the PCB Chairman to ensure that all players are well taken care of and provided with every possible facility. The Prime Minister also said that many members of the current Under-19 team would soon represent Pakistan at the senior national level.
The Prime Minister especially appreciated Samir Minhas for his excellent performance, calling him a hero, and congratulated Mohsin Naqvi for effectively managing PCB affairs.
After the reception, a formal dinner was hosted in honor of the players. The Prime Minister dined with the team and interacted with them individually. The players thanked the Prime Minister and the public for the warm appreciation and reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining their high level of performance.
Former national team captain and Pakistan Under-19 team mentor Sarfaraz Ahmed said that the Prime Minister’s announcement of Rs 10 million per player was a great morale booster, adding that these young players would continue to bring pride to the country in the future.