By Shahzaib • Mon Sep 29 2025
Dubai, September 28, 2025 — India defeated Pakistan by five wickets in a tense Asia Cup 2025 final, securing their record-extending ninth title in front of a packed Dubai crowd. The game delivered all the drama of an India–Pakistan clash, both on and off the field.
Pakistan, batting first, started strongly with Sahibzada Farhan (57) and Fakhar Zaman (46) providing a brisk opening stand. However, their innings unraveled after the halfway mark, collapsing from a promising position to 146 all out in 19.1 overs. India’s spinners turned the tide, with Kuldeep Yadav (4/30) leading the attack, supported by Axar Patel, Varun Chakravarthy, and Jasprit Bumrah who chipped in with key breakthroughs.
Chasing 147, India stumbled early at 10 for 2, but a composed knock from Tilak Varma (69 off 53 balls)* anchored the innings. He found support in Shivam Dube (33 off 22) as the pair put together a crucial 60-run partnership that steadied India’s chase. Rinku Singh, who hadn’t faced a ball in the tournament until the final, hit the winning runs in the last over, sealing a memorable victory.
The post-match presentation, however, was overshadowed by political tensions. India declined to accept the trophy and winners’ medals from the Asian Cricket Council president, who also serves as Pakistan’s Interior Minister. The ceremony was delayed for over an hour before being canceled altogether, leaving players without their official silverware on stage.
Indian cricket officials later demanded the medals and trophy be sent directly to the team, criticizing the handling of the presentation. The unusual episode added another layer of intensity to what was already a high-voltage contest.
This was the first-ever Asia Cup final between India and Pakistan, raising the stakes and emotions on both sides. India remained unbeaten against their rivals throughout the tournament, reinforcing their dominance in regional cricket.
Despite the controversy, the victory was celebrated widely by Indian fans, with the Board of Control for Cricket in India announcing a significant cash reward for the team. For Pakistan, the collapse from a strong start will raise questions about middle-order stability and composure under pressure.