India lifted the Asia Cup 2025 in style on Sunday, defeating Pakistan by five wickets in a high-voltage final at the Dubai International Stadium. The match, watched by a packed crowd and millions around the world, was a reminder of why India–Pakistan contests are considered the ultimate thrill in cricket.
India’s Early Jitters
Chasing Pakistan’s target of 172, India’s start was anything but smooth. Within the powerplay, they had lost three key wickets to the brilliance of Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah. The scoreboard read 38 for 3, and the atmosphere in the stands was tense. It looked like Pakistan had the upper hand, but what followed changed the story.
Tilak Varma’s Match-Winning Knock
Enter Tilak Varma. At just 22, the left-hander showed maturity beyond his years. While wickets tumbled at the other end, Varma stayed calm, rotated strike smartly, and punished bad balls. His knock of 69 not out off 53 balls was not just about numbers—it was about composure under pressure.
He built his innings patiently, but when the moment came, he accelerated, ensuring India never slipped behind the asking rate. The young batter’s focus and temperament earned him the Player of the Match award and huge applause from teammates and fans alike.
Key Contributions from the Middle Order
Though Varma stayed unbeaten till the end, he wasn’t alone in the fight.
- Sanju Samson chipped in with a steady 24 off 21 balls, helping to rebuild after the early collapse.
- Shivam Dube then shifted gears, smashing 33 off 22 balls at a 150 strike rate, with two massive sixes that tilted momentum India’s way.
Both knocks were small in numbers but big in impact. They gave Varma the support he needed to guide the team home.
Pakistan’s Bowling Effort
Pakistan began strongly but couldn’t sustain their grip. Afridi struck twice early, finishing with figures of 2/28, while Naseem was fiery but luckless. Spinners Shadab Khan and Mohammad Nawaz were unable to contain India’s middle order.
The turning point came when Varma and Dube attacked during the middle overs, breaking the pressure and forcing Pakistan’s bowlers into defensive lines.
India’s Bowling Earlier
Earlier, Pakistan had posted 171/8 in their 20 overs. Babar Azam top-scored with 58 off 41, while Iftikhar Ahmed added a quick 32.
India’s bowlers kept things in check. Jasprit Bumrah led from the front with 3/27, supported by Kuldeep Yadav’s 2/33. Their disciplined spells made sure Pakistan’s total, though competitive, remained within reach.
Final Moments
India needed 15 runs off the last two overs. Varma remained calm, piercing the gaps with precision. A boundary in the penultimate over sealed the deal, sparking wild celebrations in the Indian camp. Players rushed to hug the youngster, whose innings had become the backbone of India’s triumph.
With this win, India once again stamped its dominance in Asian cricket, reminding fans that the team thrives even under immense pressure.
What They Said
- Tilak Varma: “The idea was simple—bat deep and not let the run rate climb. I just wanted to play my role and I’m glad it worked for the team.”
- Suryakumar Yadav (captain): “We were tested early, but the boys showed character. Tilak’s innings was special, and contributions from Sanju and Dube were equally important.”
- Salman Ali Agha (Pakistan captain): “We started well but couldn’t capitalize. India played the big moments better, and that made the difference.”
FAQs
Q1: Who won the Asia Cup 2025 final?
India defeated Pakistan by 5 wickets.
Q2: Who was the Player of the Match?
Tilak Varma, for his unbeaten 69 off 53 balls.
Q3: What was Pakistan’s score in the final?
They made 171/8 in 20 overs.
Q4: Which Indian bowlers stood out?
Jasprit Bumrah (3/27) and Kuldeep Yadav (2/33).
Q5: Who were India’s key middle-order contributors?
Sanju Samson (24) and Shivam Dube (33 off 22).
