Pakistan kept their Asia Cup 2025 campaign alive by securing a crucial 41-run victory over the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in their final group-stage match, booking their place in the Super Four round. The high-stakes clash had all the elements of a knockout, as a loss would have seen the Green Shirts eliminated before the tournament’s next stage.
Batting first after being sent in by the UAE, Pakistan had a shaky start when opener Saim Ayub once again fell for a duck. It was his third consecutive score of zero in the tournament and the eighth of his T20 career, equalling Shahid Afridi’s unwanted record.
Despite the early setback, Fakhar Zaman steadied the innings, smashing a quickfire 50 off 36 deliveries. His innings gave Pakistan much-needed momentum before he was dismissed by Simranjeet Singh.
The UAE bowlers, led by Junaid Siddique, who claimed four wickets, kept Pakistan from running away with the game. However, once again, it was Shaheen Shah Afridi’s late batting heroics that lifted Pakistan to a competitive total.
Known for his explosive hitting in the death overs, Shaheen struck three fours and two towering sixes, replicating his entertaining cameo against India where he had hammered 33 off just 16 balls. His contribution ensured Pakistan finished with a fighting total of 146 runs.
Chasing 147, the UAE faltered under pressure, bowled out for 105 in just 17.4 overs. Pakistan’s bowling attack, spearheaded by Shaheen, Haris Rauf, and mystery spinner Abrar Ahmed, tore through the batting lineup, each picking up two wickets.
The UAE struggled to build partnerships, and their defeat not only sealed Pakistan’s qualification but also ended their own journey in the Asia Cup 2025.
With this vital win, Pakistan advanced to the Super Four, regaining momentum and boosting their confidence for the tougher challenges ahead.
