By Shahzaib • Thu Sep 18 2025
Pakistan overcame a shaky start to secure a 41-run victory over the United Arab Emirates in their final Group A fixture of the Asia Cup, sealing their spot in the Super Four stage alongside arch-rivals India. The match at Dubai International Stadium carried extra drama after a pre-game delay due to Pakistan’s protest against the match referee, but once play began, Pakistan managed to deliver under pressure.
Batting first, Pakistan struggled to build momentum in the early overs as UAE bowlers kept things tight. Top-order wickets fell cheaply, and at one stage, Pakistan looked in danger of being restricted to a modest total. However, opener Fakhar Zaman played a counter-attacking innings of 50 off just 36 deliveries, mixing caution with aggression to guide the innings forward. Later, left-arm pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi surprised fans with his batting cameo, smashing 29 runs from only 14 balls to give Pakistan’s innings a late boost. Despite losing wickets at regular intervals, Pakistan finished on 146 for 9 in 20 overs, a target that looked competitive on a tricky pitch.
Chasing 147, UAE needed a strong start but faltered early as Pakistan’s pace attack made immediate breakthroughs. Rahul Chopra provided some resistance with a steady 35, and Dhruv Parashar added 20 to keep hopes alive, but once their partnership was broken, the chase unraveled. Pakistan’s bowlers dominated, with Abrar Ahmed starring in the middle overs, taking 2 for 13 in his spell. The rest of the attack chipped in to ensure there was no late comeback from the hosts. UAE eventually folded for 105 in 17.4 overs, handing Pakistan a comfortable win.
Beyond the cricket, the game also carried a touch of controversy. The start was delayed by an hour as Pakistan raised concerns about the referee assigned for the match. The issue was linked to an earlier incident involving India, where Pakistani players claimed they were disrespected during the post-match formalities. An apology from the officials eventually allowed the game to proceed, though the tension added extra edge to the contest.
With this victory, Pakistan finished second in Group A and advanced to the Super Four stage. They will now face India in what promises to be one of the most anticipated clashes of the tournament. For UAE, the defeat marked the end of their Asia Cup campaign, though their spirited performances against top sides earned them valuable experience.