India tightened their grip on a spot in the Asia Cup 2025 final with a commanding six-wicket win over arch-rivals Pakistan in their Super 4 clash on Sunday. The victory, built on Abhishek Sharma’s blistering 74 off 39 balls and Shivam Dube’s all-round heroics, marked India’s second triumph over Pakistan in the tournament.
Pakistan’s Innings: Steady Start, Explosive Finish
Opting to bat first, Pakistan posted a competitive 171/5 on the Dubai track. Farhan anchored the top order, laying the foundation, before a late flourish from Faheem Ashraf and Salman Ali Agha propelled Pakistan past the 170-mark.
For India, Shivam Dube was the standout bowler with two wickets, while Kuldeep Yadav and Hardik Pandya claimed one apiece. However, India’s effort in the field drew criticism after four dropped catches, which gifted Pakistan valuable runs.
India’s Chase: Abhishek on Fire, Dube Steady at the End
India’s response was electric. Abhishek Sharma launched a stunning assault on Pakistan’s bowlers, smashing boundaries and sixes at will. His aggressive 74, coupled with a fluent stand alongside Shubman Gill, gave India the perfect start.
Pakistan briefly clawed back in the middle overs as wickets fell, but Dube held his nerve, guiding India home with an unbeaten knock and sealing the chase with seven balls to spare.
Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav praised his team’s character but didn’t shy away from flagging concerns over fielding.
“The way the boys are stepping up in every game is making my job very easy. They stayed calm after the first 10 overs. Bumrah is not a robot he’s allowed a bad day but Dube bailed us out brilliantly. Abhishek and Gill are like fire and ice, complementing each other. But yes, after the first innings, our fielding coach sent emails to all those who had butter fingers today,” he quipped.
Awarded Player of the Match, Abhishek Sharma admitted that a verbal spat with Pakistan pacer Haris Rauf spurred him on.
