In a high-voltage Asia Cup 2025 final at the Dubai International Stadium, India clinched the title with a gripping five-wicket victory over arch-rivals Pakistan, sealing the chase with just two balls to spare. The packed stadium and millions watching across the globe witnessed yet another unforgettable chapter in one of cricket’s greatest rivalries.
Pakistan Post Competitive 146 Despite Kuldeep’s Magic
India won the toss and opted to bowl first — a decision that paid dividends early on. Left-arm spinner Kuldeep Yadav starred with a sensational spell, returning 4 for 30 in his four overs, derailing Pakistan’s middle order just when they seemed set for a bigger total.
However, Sahibzada Farhan kept Pakistan in the fight, top-scoring with 57 off 38 balls, while Fakhar Zaman added a blistering 46 off 35. Jasprit Bumrah (2/25) and Axar Patel (2/26) provided crucial breakthroughs at key moments, ensuring Pakistan were bowled out for 146 in 19.1 overs — a score that looked tricky under pressure.
Tilak Varma Leads India to Glory
Chasing 147 in a tense final is no easy task, but youngster Tilak Varma rose to the occasion with nerves of steel. Walking in early, he anchored the innings with a match-winning unbeaten 69 off 53 deliveries, displaying maturity well beyond his years.
He was well-supported by Shivam Dube’s quickfire 33 from 22 balls and Sanju Samson’s steady 24 off 21, keeping India ahead in the chase despite regular fall of wickets.
Pakistan bowlers fought back through Faheem Ashraf (3/29) and Shaheen Afridi (1/20), pushing the match into the final over. But Tilak kept his composure, guiding India to 150/5 in 19.4 overs, sealing a sensational victory.
A Final to Remember
India’s win in the Asia Cup 2025 final will go down as one of their most thrilling victories against Pakistan in recent years. It was a contest filled with high-quality bowling, fearless batting, and moments of raw emotion from both sides.
The match also cemented Tilak Varma’s rise as India’s next big match-winner, while Kuldeep Yadav reaffirmed his status as one of the most lethal spinners in white-ball cricket.
Final Scorecard Snapshot
| Team | Score |
|---|---|
| Pakistan | 146 (19.1 overs) |
| India | 150/5 (19.4 overs) |
Result: India won by 5 wickets (2 balls left)
