Tension simmered at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium as India’s pursuit of Pakistan’s modest total of 146 in the Asia Cup 2025 final took an unexpected turn on Sunday. Having bowled out their rivals in just 19.1 overs, India seemed to be on a comfortable path, but fate had other plans.
India’s in-form opener, Abhishek Sharma, was the first to fall in the second over, caught at mid-on by Haris Rauf off Faheem Ashraf’s opening delivery. Sharma’s aggressive approach backfired, managing only 5 runs off 6 balls. Ashraf’s emphatic celebration, a wild fist pump and a celebratory leap, sent a clear message that Pakistan was determined to fight for every inch.
Skipper Suryakumar Yadav then stepped onto the pitch, tasked with stabilizing the innings. However, the drama intensified almost immediately. Shaheen Afridi delivered a slower ball, and SKY attempted to loft it over the infield. He misjudged the shot, and the ball was spectacularly plucked low at mid-off by Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha. Agha, rolling over, managed to clutch the ball firmly to complete a breathtaking catch.
The decision was immediately referred to the third umpire, and after a nail-biting review, the verdict was upheld. Suryakumar Yadav was declared out for a mere 1 run off 5 balls, plunging India into further trouble at 10/2 within just 2.3 overs.
The Asia Cup 2025 final has, from its early moments, lived up to its reputation as a high-stakes, adrenaline-fueled spectacle. With India losing two quick wickets, Pakistan’s bowlers have seized the momentum, and the tension shows no signs of abating as the Men in Blue struggle to chase down what once seemed like a manageable total amidst a roaring crowd.