The final of the Under-19 World Cup between India and Bangladesh was marred by ugly scenes after the end of a thrilling match, which the Tigers won by three wickets in Potchefstroom, South Africa.
Chasing 178 to win, Bangladesh were struggling at 102-6 before captain Akbar Ali took them past the finish line with an unbeaten 43. After rain intervened towards the end, Bangladesh were given a revised target of 170 – seven from 30 balls – which they duly achieved.
"It's an unbelievable experience," said Rakibul Hasan, who hit the winning run. "We came here with plans and it worked out really well. Whichever team executes their plans better on the day wins, and that happened for us today."
Captain Ali hoped this is the start of a long journey for the young players. "It's a dream come true," said Akbar. "We've had a very good experience, and this is just the beginning for us. Hopefully, this will be the stepping stone for us."
But the match will also be remembered for the fight that ensued once the winning run was hit. As Bangladesh players rushed to the ground, tensions flared between players who had been having a go at each other throughout the match.
The International Cricket Council is reported to be looking at match footage to determine who was at fault.
Bangladesh captain Ali said the incident was unfortunate. "As a youngster, it shouldn't happen. In any position, in any manner, we have to show respect to the opponent, for the game. Cricket is known as a gentleman's game. So I'll say, I'll be sorry for my team," Ali said after the match.
However, his Indian counterpart Priyam Garg put the blame on Bangladesh players.
"We think it's part and parcel of the game. You win some and you lose some. But their reaction was dirty. I think it shouldn't have happened," Garg said.
