Image Credit: BCCI
India Clinch Asia Cup, Defeat Pakistan In Final
India lifted the 2025 Asia Cup title with a thrilling five-wicket victory over arch-rivals Pakistan in the final held at Dubai International Stadium. The contest marked the first time the two sides had met in an Asia Cup final, adding to the high-voltage atmosphere both on and off the field.
Pakistan’s Collapse After Strong Start
Batting first, Pakistan appeared well-placed after their openers stitched together a strong 84-run partnership, giving them momentum. However, the middle order faltered dramatically. From a commanding position, they collapsed to lose nine wickets for just 33 runs, folding for 146 runs in 19.1 overs. Indian spinner Kuldeep Yadav turned the match in India’s favour with a decisive spell of 4 for 30, dismantling Pakistan’s batting line-up.
India’s Chase Led By Tilak Varma
Chasing 147, India faced early pressure but steadied through the calm presence of Tilak Varma, who played a match-winning unbeaten knock of 69 off 53 balls. He built crucial partnerships, first with Shivam Dube (33 runs) and later with Sanju Samson (24 runs). With nerves tightening in the final over, Rinku Singh struck the winning boundary in the 20th over, guiding India to 150/5 in 19.4 overs.
India’s Ninth Asia Cup Title
The victory not only handed India its ninth Asia Cup crown but also reaffirmed the team’s depth and ability to perform under pressure. For Pakistan, the collapse highlighted familiar frailties in their middle order. The final will be remembered for Tilak Varma’s composure, Kuldeep Yadav’s game-changing spell, and India’s ability to prevail in yet another high-stakes clash against their biggest rivals.
