Paul proud of Windies glory after 'Mankad' controversy

The Windies' journey to the final was marred by controversy after Zimbabwe's Richard Ngarava was run out by Paul while backing up at the non-striker's end in the final over of their Group C encounter.

Published : Feb 14, 2016 17:30 IST

The West Indies Under-19 team celebrates after the victory.

The West Indies' Keemo Paul is proud of beating India in the Under-19 Cricket World Cup final, despite being criticised for a 'Mankad' run out in the match against Zimbabwe earlier in the campaign.

The Windies' journey to the final was marred by controversy after Zimbabwe's Richard Ngarava was run out by Paul while backing up at the non-striker's end in the final over of their Group C encounter. The dismissal secured the Caribbean nation a slender two-run victory and a place in the quarter-finals.

Although Paul did not break any rules, the so-called 'Mankad' dismissal is not seen to be in the spirit of cricket. Clearly unfazed by the controversy, the all-rounder took two for 17 as the Windies defeated India for 145 in Sunday's final in Mirpur.

Paul then added 40 runs, including the title-clinching score with just three balls remaining to claim the trophy for the first time in his nation's history with a five-wicket triumph.

"It is special. Thanks to God. We are very happy. Obviously it a great feeling, we are winning it for the first time," Paul said. "I told Carty we have to do do this. We have to take it home. Windies are world champions!"