Mohit Ulva: The Soldiers Son Who Snatched the Under-19 Asia Cup Trophy from Pakistan

New Delhi, November 14 (Daily Kiran) : In a thrilling finale of the Under-19 Asia Cup 2026 held in New Delhi, Mohit Ulva emerged as a hero for India, leading his team to a dramatic victory over Pakistan. When he stepped onto the field to bat at number ten, India needed 86 runs in just 8.3 overs, a daunting challenge that had some fans fearing defeat.

Pakistan, batting first after winning the toss at the Al Amerat Cricket Ground, scored 337 runs, bolstered by a century from opener Usman Khan, who made 107 runs. For India, Kavy Patel took four wickets, while Chigurupati Venkat claimed three.

In response, India clinched victory on the final ball of the match. Captain Lakshya Raichandani contributed significantly with 80 runs off 101 balls, supported by Aryaveer Sehwag with 58 runs and Manal Chauhan, who scored 47. Mohit played a crucial role, remaining unbeaten with 49 runs from 26 balls, including three sixes and five fours.

Chasing the massive target of 338, Mohit formed a vital partnership with Manal Chauhan, adding 57 runs for the ninth wicket in just 35 balls, bringing India closer to the 300-run mark. After Chauhan’s dismissal at 309 runs, Mohit continued to bat fearlessly, partnering with Chigurupati Venkat to secure the win with a boundary on the last ball.

Eighteen-year-old Mohit Kumar Maheshbhai Ulva was born on November 30, 2007, in Surendranagar, Gujarat. A right-arm medium pacer and an accomplished batsman, Mohit advanced through the Saurashtra age-group system to represent India’s Under-19 team.

His father, Maheshbhai Ulva, works with the Railway Protection Force (RPF). Mohit’s passion for cricket began in his childhood, playing tennis-ball cricket with his cousins before receiving formal training at an academy.

He trained under Mahendra Singh Chauhan at the ‘Cricket Bangla’ in Jamnagar, where sessions began with warm-up laps followed by sprints and drills. His coach emphasized fitness, which played a significant role in Mohit’s development as a player.

Initially starting as an off-spinner, Mohit’s transition to fast bowling came on the advice of his coach, who recognized his potential for speed. After moving to Rajkot, Mohit began playing age-group cricket for Saurashtra and even participated in the Saurashtra Premier League alongside Jaydev Unadkat.

His father encouraged him to focus on both bowling and batting, providing him with a bowling machine for practice. This dedication transformed Mohit into an explosive batsman.

Recently, he was selected for the Indian Under-19 team for their tour of Australia. In the first youth Test against Australia at Rajkot’s Niranjan Shah Stadium, Mohit took three wickets for 37 runs in the first innings and scored 92 runs off 84 balls, hitting ten sixes and four fours. Over the series, he averaged 48.50, scoring 97 runs and taking four wickets.