From slippery tiles to history books: how Sameer Minhas scripted his rise to Pakistan’s U19 glory

Sameer Minhas’ journey into Pakistan’s Under-19 setup is the result of a gradual, structured progression through the country’s junior cricket system, shaped by early exposure at home, consistent performances at age-group level, and a clear focus on technique and basics.

Inspired by his father and driven by the company of his elder brother, Arafay Minhas himself a Pakistan representative, Sameer’s cricketing journey began with street cricket. With water poured on tiles to simulate pace and bounce, mistakes were unforgiving. An edge meant dismissal, a slip meant learning the hard way. Those early conditions, Sameer believes, quietly built his technique and mental toughness.

Recognising their passion, Sameer’s father encouraged the shift from tape-ball to leather-ball cricket. His brother made the transition first, setting a path Sameer was determined to follow. Soon, results followed at the regional level. Sameer represented Multan in the Under-13 category, later captaining South Punjab U13 and leading his side to the finals. Though the title eluded them, the experience marked him as a player to watch.

In an interview with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB)

Progress through the age groups was steady. Sameer featured in Under-16 cricket, where he played alongside his brother for the first time, and emerged as one of his team’s top performers. His consistency earned him selection in Pakistan’s 100-player development programme, a significant milestone in the domestic pathway.

The jump to Under-19 cricket, however, was not immediate success. Sameer struggled in his first year at that level, a phase he now describes as a learning curve. The turnaround came this season, when he scored over 400 runs, performances that secured him a place in Pakistan’s U19 setup.

What followed was a breakthrough tournament. Playing with clarity and freedom, Sameer played a key role in Pakistan’s historic first Under-19 Asia Cup title. His fearless approach, encouraged by coaches who asked him to trust his natural game, culminated in a record-breaking fastest century, an achievement he says he only fully realised after seeing the PCB’s official announcement.

“I wasn’t thinking about records,” Sameer recalled. “The plan was simple: play easily, play for the team.”

Team unity, forged through months of training camps and shared tours, became a defining factor in Pakistan’s success across the Asia Cup and the Zimbabwe series. Partnerships under pressure, particularly after early top-order collapses, reflected the trust and bonding within the squad.

Looking ahead, Sameer’s focus is clear. The Under-19 World Cup is the ultimate goal, not personal milestones, but lifting the trophy for Pakistan. Still, ambition remains. Having already earned Player of the Tournament honours in the Asia Cup and Player of the Series in Zimbabwe, he aims to repeat that impact on the world stage.

Inspired by the fearless batting of AB de Villiers, Sameer prepares for matches by revisiting his own best moments, a reminder of what he is capable of when confidence meets preparation.

From street cricket rules to international records, Sameer Minhas’ story is a reminder that Pakistan’s cricketing future continues to be shaped in the most modest of beginnings, driven by family, discipline and an unwavering belief in playing without fear.