India delivered a dominant performance in Dubai to defeat Pakistan by seven wickets in their crucial Asia Cup 2025 Group A clash. The much-anticipated encounter, played under immense political and emotional scrutiny, turned into a one-sided affair as India’s spinners throttled Pakistan’s batting before the top order chased down the target with more than four overs to spare.
Pakistan, asked to bat first on a slow surface, never really gained momentum. Early strikes by the Indian new-ball pair put Pakistan under pressure before Kuldeep Yadav and Axar Patel completely took control in the middle overs. Kuldeep was the pick of the bowlers with figures of 3 for 18, consistently turning the ball and trapping key batters. Axar supported well, taking 2 for 18 and forcing the batters to play risky strokes. Pakistan’s top order faltered badly, with both openers falling cheaply and the scoreline reading 30 for 3 at one stage. Sahibzada Farhan provided some stability with a patient 40, but with wickets falling around him, Pakistan’s innings never truly took off. A late flourish from Shaheen Shah Afridi, who smashed 33 not out from 16 balls, took Pakistan to 127 for 9 in their 20 overs—still well below par against a strong Indian lineup.
India’s reply was clinical. Abhishek Sharma set the tone at the top with a blistering 31 off just 13 balls, taking on the Pakistan pacers and immediately putting India ahead of the required rate. Although Shubman Gill was dismissed early and Virat Kohli fell cheaply, there was no panic in the Indian camp. Tilak Varma and captain Suryakumar Yadav combined for a crucial 56-run stand that steadied the chase. Varma rotated the strike smartly, compiling 31 before falling, while SKY held one end and guided the team home with an unbeaten 47. India crossed the finish line with 25 balls to spare, underscoring their dominance on the day.
This result was more than just a group stage win; it was a psychological statement. Coming into the match under intense public and political attention, the Indian side kept emotions in check and executed their plans with precision. The spin attack once again proved to be India’s biggest weapon, and the batting unit showed both aggression and maturity to handle a tricky chase.
With this victory, India solidified their position at the top of Group A, taking a major step toward securing a Super Four berth. Pakistan, meanwhile, will need to address their top-order issues quickly if they are to stay in the tournament hunt. For India, the comprehensive nature of this win will boost confidence and build momentum as they prepare for tougher tests ahead in the Asia Cup.
12BET Shortlisted for Sportsbook Operator of the Year at SBC Awards 2025