The much-anticipated India vs Pakistan clash in the Asia Cup 2025 group stage lived up to its billing—but not in the way Pakistani fans would have hoped. Under the floodlights of the Dubai International Stadium on Sunday, Pakistan crumbled to just 127/9 in their 20 overs, undone by India’s clinical bowling attack.
Winning the toss and choosing to bat first, Pakistan’s innings began in chaos. Saim Ayub was dismissed on the very first ball, caught by Jasprit Bumrah off Hardik Pandya, setting the tone for the night. Mohammad Haris (6 off 5) followed soon after, falling prey to Bumrah, leaving Pakistan reeling at 6/2 in the second over.
From there, it was a tale of collapses interrupted by brief resistance. Sahibzada Farhan (40 off 44) tried to anchor the innings, but his slow strike rate put additional pressure on the middle order. Fakhar Zaman (17 off 15) looked promising before he fell to Axar Patel, while skipper Salman Ali Agha (12 off 25) also departed cheaply, struggling against India’s spin.
The lower order collapse was swift and ruthless. Youngster Hassan Nawaz (5 off 7) and all-rounder Mohammad Nawaz (0) departed in quick succession, both undone by the guile of Kuldeep Yadav. Pakistan’s hopes of a late flourish vanished when Faheem Ashraf (10 off 6) was trapped lbw by Varun Chakaravarthy. By the 19th over, Pakistan had slumped to 111/9, with only Shaheen Afridi (not out) and Abrar Ahmed (not out) left at the crease.
India’s bowlers were relentless across all phases. Kuldeep Yadav (3/14) and Axar Patel (2/17) strangled Pakistan in the middle overs, while Bumrah (2/28) and Pandya (1/34) provided the breakthroughs upfront. Varun Chakaravarthy also chipped in with a crucial wicket to cap off a disciplined effort.
With Pakistan managing just 127, India are overwhelming favorites to chase down the modest target and strengthen their qualification chances for the Asia Cup semifinals.
The Dubai crowd, traditionally packed with fans of both nations, was treated to yet another fiery contest—but one where India’s bowlers clearly stole the show.
The focus now shifts to India’s batting response, but unless Pakistan can produce a miracle with the ball, this match seems destined to go India’s way.
