India secured a commanding six-wicket win over arch-rivals Pakistan in the Super Four stage of the Asia Cup 2025, chasing down the target of 172 with seven balls to spare. The high-voltage match, played at the Dubai International Stadium on Sunday, combined on-field drama, fierce batting, and simmering political tensions.
Pakistan, batting first after losing the toss, managed to post 171/5 in 20 overs. Opener Sahibzada Farhan anchored the innings with a fluent 58 runs, while Babar Azam and Fakhar Zaman contributed brief cameos. However, India’s disciplined bowling restricted Pakistan from accelerating in the middle overs. Shivam Dube was the standout performer with the ball, claiming two key wickets at crucial stages, while Arshdeep Singh and Kuldeep Yadav kept the run rate under check with tight spells. Despite a late flourish from Pakistan’s lower order, the total appeared slightly below par on a flat batting surface.
In reply, India’s chase got off to a blistering start thanks to the opening partnership of Abhishek Sharma and Shubman Gill. The pair attacked from the outset, punishing Pakistan’s pace duo of Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf. Abhishek was particularly aggressive, hammering boundaries on both sides of the wicket and racing to 74 off just 39 deliveries. Gill complemented him with a stylish 47 off 28 balls, finding the gaps with precision. Their stand put India firmly in control of the game within the first 10 overs.
Pakistan tried to claw back through their spinners, with Shadab Khan managing to break the opening stand. But by then, India required less than a run a ball. The middle order ensured there was no collapse, with Tilak Varma calmly guiding the chase after the dismissal of the openers. His composed knock, supported by Ruturaj Gaikwad, ensured India crossed the finish line in 18.5 overs, sealing victory with seven balls remaining.
Beyond the cricket, the contest was charged with political undertones. This was the second time in the tournament that India’s players refrained from shaking hands with their Pakistani counterparts, both before the toss and after the match. The gesture, or the lack of it, was noted by commentators and spectators alike, reflecting the tense atmosphere that has often accompanied India-Pakistan sporting encounters.
On the field, tempers flared on several occasions. Abhishek Sharma and Shubman Gill exchanged words with Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf during the early overs, adding to the intensity of the already high-stakes contest. The umpires had to step in briefly to calm things down, but the exchanges highlighted the fierce rivalry between the two sides.
The victory carries significant implications for India’s campaign. With this result, India strengthens its position in the Super Four standings, boosting its chances of reaching the final. The comprehensive nature of the win, built on both batting dominance and disciplined bowling, also provides a confidence boost ahead of tougher fixtures. Pakistan, on the other hand, face an uphill battle. Having already dropped crucial points, they now must win their remaining matches to stay in contention for the final.
For fans, the match once again delivered the drama, skill, and emotion that define India-Pakistan cricket clashes. While India celebrated another memorable win, Pakistan were left to reflect on missed opportunities and the need to raise their game in crunch situations.
