Pakistan’s hopes of lifting the Asia Cup 2025 trophy ended in disappointment as the team suffered a dramatic batting collapse against India in the final at Dubai International Cricket Stadium. What began as a promising start from the opening pair quickly turned into one of Pakistan’s most forgettable batting performances in recent memory.
Strong opening partnership raises hope
Sahibzada Farhan and Fakhar Zaman gave Pakistan the start they needed, building an 84-run stand in just 9.3 overs. Farhan, in particular, looked in fine form, scoring 57 runs off 38 balls with confidence and aggression. Fakhar supported him with a steady 46 runs. Their stand raised hopes that Pakistan could post a competitive total of around 200 runs, especially since the pitch appeared favorable for batting.
Fans on social media praised Farhan for his fearless stroke play, especially against India’s strike bowler Jasprit Bumrah. Some even highlighted how Farhan dominated Bumrah, a bowler feared by many of the world’s top batters. At that stage, optimism was high, with many expecting Pakistan to reach a commanding score.
Middle order collapse shocks fans
However, the situation changed quickly when Saim Ayub and Mohammad Haris departed in quick succession. The fall of Fakhar further deepened the crisis. Pakistan’s middle order crumbled, and the team lost nine wickets for just 33 runs.
The collapse left fans frustrated, many describing it as a “typical Pakistan cricket moment” where a strong foundation was wasted. Apart from Farhan, Fakhar, and Saim, no other batsman managed to reach double digits. The rest of the lineup fell cheaply, leaving the team all out for just 146 runs in 19.1 overs, with five balls still remaining.
India’s bowlers dominate
India’s bowlers displayed remarkable discipline and skill. Spinner Kuldeep Yadav was the standout performer, taking four wickets and dismantling Pakistan’s hopes. Varun Chakravarthy, Axar Patel, and Jasprit Bumrah also played crucial roles, each picking up two wickets. Their combined effort ensured Pakistan never recovered from the initial setbacks.
The match marked the first Asia Cup final between India and Pakistan in the tournament’s 41-year history. With such high stakes, fans expected a thrilling contest, but India’s dominant bowling display overshadowed Pakistan’s early promise.
Team strategies and selections
India’s captain Suryakumar Yadav won the toss and chose to field first, a decision that proved successful. Pakistan retained its winning combination despite speculation that Saim Ayub might be dropped. India, on the other hand, included Rinku Singh in place of Hardik Pandya.
Pakistan’s captain Salman Ali Agha acknowledged the pressure both teams faced and expressed confidence before the match. However, the final outcome highlighted how quickly fortunes can change in high-pressure games.
Historical context favors India
Statistics also highlighted India’s dominance in Asia Cup history. Out of 20 encounters, India has won 12 while Pakistan has claimed victory in just six. In ODI matches, India leads with eight wins compared to Pakistan’s five. In T20 encounters, India has won four out of five, with Pakistan winning only once. At the Dubai venue, India also holds the advantage, winning three of the five matches played against Pakistan.
Fans react with frustration
Reactions poured in online as fans criticized the team’s inability to handle pressure. Many lamented how the middle order once again failed to deliver when it mattered most. The collapse, they argued, reflected recurring issues in Pakistan cricket where consistency remains elusive despite flashes of brilliance from individual players.
As the dust settles on the Asia Cup final, questions will once again be asked about Pakistan’s preparation, strategy, and middle-order stability. For India, the win adds another chapter to its record of dominance in the rivalry, while Pakistan’s collapse becomes a reminder of missed opportunities on the biggest stage.
