The Asia Cup 2025 Super Fours stage is off to an exciting start in the UAE, with both India and Bangladesh securing initial victories, leaving the path to the final wide open. Defending champions India showcased their dominance yet again by defeating arch-rivals Pakistan with a comfortable six-wicket margin on Sunday, following their group stage win a week prior. Meanwhile, Bangladesh delivered a strong performance on Saturday, overcoming Sri Lanka by four wickets.
Currently, India and Bangladesh lead the Super Fours standings, each with two points. India holds a significant advantage with a superior net run rate of +0.689, compared to Bangladesh’s +0.121. Pakistan and Sri Lanka, however, are yet to earn any points, but with four matches remaining in this crucial stage, both teams still have a chance to qualify for the summit clash.
For Pakistan, the route to the final is clear but challenging: they must win their upcoming two matches. First, they face Sri Lanka on Tuesday, followed by a clash with Bangladesh on Thursday. Securing two victories would earn Salman Agha’s squad four points, potentially setting the stage for an electrifying third encounter against India in the final next Sunday.
If this scenario materializes, cricket fans would be treated to an unprecedented three consecutive weeks of India-Pakistan rivalry – a thrilling prospect not seen in a very long time!
India’s recent victory over Pakistan was powered by opener Abhishek Sharma, who scored an explosive 74 runs off just 39 balls, alongside Shubman Gill’s valuable contribution of 47 runs, forming a century partnership. Despite a slight stumble in the middle order, Tilak Varma and Hardik Pandya comfortably guided the team to victory. Earlier in the match, Shivam Dube’s quick double strike disrupted Pakistan’s promising start, highlighting weaknesses in their batting lineup.
Despite the loss, Pakistan displayed moments of resilience. Sahibzada Farhan’s 58 runs and Saim Ayub’s return to form after three consecutive ducks offered glimmers of hope. However, their bowling attack, spearheaded by Abrar Ahmed, struggled to contain the stronger opposition.
As Sri Lanka and Pakistan prepare for their virtual do-or-die match on Tuesday, the objective is simple: survive and advance. Yet, for passionate fans, the ultimate fantasy remains – witnessing a third epic India-Pakistan showdown to crown the Asia Cup 2025 champions.