The inaugural ACC Asia Cup Rising Stars 2025 kicked off on 14 November in Doha, Qatar, with Pakistan A vs Oman and India A vs UAE as the opening fixtures of the tournament. The first day provided a glimpse into the emerging cricketing talent across Asia, as young players looked to impress selectors and stake their claim for future international opportunities.
In the early match, Pakistan A faced Oman in a contest that showcased the balance between aggressive batting and disciplined bowling. Oman, batting first, managed a competitive total of 168/6 in 20 overs, thanks to a composed 62 from opener Zahid Malik and some late hitting from their lower order. Pakistan A’s bowling attack, led by pacer Haris Abrar and left-arm spinner Usman Qadir, struck at crucial moments to restrict Oman from building big partnerships. Abrar took 3 wickets for 28 runs, while Qadir’s tight spells kept the scoring rate in check during the middle overs.
Chasing 169, Pakistan A’s batting line-up demonstrated maturity beyond their years. Captain Hasan Aliwala anchored the innings with 48 off 32 balls, while aggressive contributions from the middle order helped Pakistan A reach 172/4 in 18.3 overs, winning the match with two overs to spare. The opening contest set the tone for a high-quality tournament, highlighting Pakistan A’s ability to handle pressure and chase targets effectively.
The second fixture of the day, India A vs UAE, was equally compelling. UAE batted first and posted 157/7 in their 20 overs. Left-handed opener Aayan Khan scored 54, but India A bowlers managed to keep scoring under control with consistent line and length. Leg-spinner R. Suryakumar picked up 3 wickets, while medium pacer Arjun Deshmukh added two crucial breakthroughs, ensuring UAE could not accelerate in the death overs.
India A’s chase started explosively, led by teenager Vaibhav Suryavanshi, who announced himself on the international stage with a blistering 144 off just 42 balls, including 15 sixes. He partnered with opener Rohan Mehta, who scored 38, to propel India A to a dominant total of 214/2 in just 12 overs. The innings not only secured a comprehensive victory for India A but also demonstrated the tournament’s primary purpose: giving emerging talent exposure and a platform to perform under pressure.
Selectors and coaches were quick to praise both teams for their commitment and tactical awareness. Pakistan A displayed composure in a chase, while India A showcased raw firepower, highlighting the contrast between different styles of emerging talent in Asia. Both matches confirmed that the Rising Stars event is more than a developmental tournament; it is a competitive arena where young players can experience real pressure situations and high-intensity cricket.
With the first day concluded, attention shifts to the marquee India A vs Pakistan A clash on 16 November, which promises to be a high-profile encounter featuring some of Asia’s brightest prospects. Day 1 of the Rising Stars tournament set a strong precedent for skill, intensity, and entertainment, offering a glimpse of the next generation of cricketing stars who may shape the future of the sport in the continent.
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