In a thrilling encounter at the Dubai International Stadium, India defeated Pakistan by 5 wickets to clinch the Asia Cup 2025. This victory marks India's ninth Asia Cup title. The final was a low-scoring affair that went down to the wire, with Tilak Varma's unbeaten half-century proving to be the difference.
Pakistan, after being put in to bat, got off to a steady start, with openers Sahibzada Farhan (57) and Fakhar Zaman (46) forging an 84-run partnership. However, once this partnership was broken, the Pakistani batting lineup collapsed, losing 9 wickets for just 33 runs. Kuldeep Yadav spearheaded the Indian bowling attack, claiming 4 crucial wickets for 30 runs. His performance triggered the collapse and earned him the title of highest wicket-taker in Asia Cup history (ODI and T20 combined) with 36 wickets in 18 matches. He surpassed Lasith Malinga of Sri Lanka, who previously held the record with 33 wickets. Jasprit Bumrah, Varun Chakaravarthy, and Axar Patel each took 2 wickets, further contributing to Pakistan's downfall. Pakistan were eventually bowled out for 146 in 19.1 overs.
Chasing a target of 147, India faced early setbacks, losing Abhishek Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, and Shubman Gill within the powerplay. Faheem Ashraf and Shaheen Afridi rattled the Indian top order, leaving India at a precarious 20/3. However, Tilak Varma, walking in at a crucial juncture, steadied the innings with a calm and assertive approach. He forged a crucial partnership with Sanju Samson, who contributed 24 runs, before adding another vital 60 runs with Shivam Dube. Varma remained unbeaten on 69 off 53 balls, showcasing a blend of patience and aggression. His innings included 3 fours and 4 sixes, ensuring India never lost momentum. Shivam Dube contributed a quick 33 off 22 balls, providing valuable support. With 10 runs required off the final over, Tilak Varma sealed the victory with a six. Rinku Singh, who replaced Hardik Pandya in the playing XI, hit the winning boundary.
Kuldeep Yadav was awarded the MVP award for his sensational bowling. Abhishek Sharma was named player of the tournament.
This Asia Cup final was historic as it was the first time India and Pakistan clashed in the summit clash in the tournament's 41-year history. The match was played amidst high tensions and without the customary handshakes between the teams.
