Celebrations by Indian players following their dramatic one-wicket victory over Pakistan in the U-19 Asia Cup final on Saturday drew criticism on social media, with several videos appearing to show players making obscene gestures and directing abusive language at their opponents.

Footage circulating online showed some Indian players making inappropriate gestures and shouting at Pakistan players after Mohit Ulva struck the winning boundary off the final delivery at the Al-Amerat Cricket Ground in Muscat.

One video appeared to show players, including Manal Chauhan, making gestures towards Pakistan wicket-keeper-batter Hamza Zahoor, while other clips showed members of the Indian side celebrating aggressively in front of their opponents.

There were also reports of no immediate exchange of handshakes between the teams as Indian players rushed onto the field to celebrate. A member of India’s support staff was seen attempting to calm the players.

The footage drew criticism from social media users, with several questioning the conduct of the Indian players and describing it as contrary to the spirit of the game. Some comments criticised the celebrations despite acknowledging India’s achievement in winning a closely contested final.

The gestures allegedly directed at Hamza also attracted attention from Pakistan supporters and former players.

“This guy should be sent to school instead of [a] cricket ground,” former federal minister Fawad Chaudhry wrote on X.

In response to another one of Chaudhry’s posts, journalist Fahd Hussain called the cricketer a “disgrace to more than just Indian cricket”.

Meanwhile, cricketer Ahmed Shahzad, while congratulating the Indian team, said celebrations should reflect the joy of winning instead of turning into gestures of aggression or unnecessary hostility.

“These are young players, and it’s important we teach them that the spirit of the game goes beyond the result,” Shahzad posted on X.

“Unfortunately, the seniors have carried forward certain traditions that need to change. It’s time we evolve, show respect for the opposition and embrace true sportsmanship,” he added.

Former batting maestro Mohammad Yousuf called the tournament a “great” learning platform for both teams and players with potential to become future stars.

However, without naming anyone, he emphasised that competing in sports at any level was not only about representing one’s country, but also about reflecting one’s upbringing and the values and ethics taught by one’s parents.

“Always remain respectful and composed, whether in victory or defeat. True sportsmanship is reflected in the way you conduct yourself, regardless of the outcome,” Yousuf said.

Columnist Ammar Masood said the scenes involving the Indian cricket team are “not a reflection of sportsmanship” but of a “deeply disturbing mindset that has no place in cricket”.

“Such behaviour disgraces the spirit of the game,” Masood asserted.

Hamza had earlier scored a century in the group-stage meeting between the two sides.

However, Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) secretary Devajit Saikia defended the players, saying their celebrations were understandable given the circumstances of the victory.

“When they win a match from such a difficult position, they certainly deserve to celebrate. That’s something we must allow,” he told reporters.

India had recovered from 252 for eight to chase down Pakistan’s 338-run target, finishing at 339 for nine on the final delivery. Pakistan had earlier posted 337 for nine, with Usman Khan scoring a century.

The celebrations sparked debate over the conduct of players in high-pressure contests, particularly in matches involving the two neighbouring countries.