Dubai was painted blue on Sunday night as India secured their ninth Asia Cup title, triumphing over arch-rivals Pakistan with a commanding five-wicket win. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) was quick to celebrate this milestone, announcing a substantial Rs 21 crore prize money for the victorious players and support staff.
The BCCI shared their excitement on X (formerly Twitter), stating, “3 blows. 0 response. Asia Cup Champions. Message delivered. 21 crores prize money for the team and support staff,” highlighting the team’s dominance and the significance of their latest achievement.
The match saw young sensation Tilak Varma play a pivotal role, scoring an unbeaten 69 runs off 53 balls. His composed batting anchored India’s chase of 147, including a crucial 60-run partnership with Shivam Dube. Even after India faced early wobbles at 20/3 and later 77/4, Varma remained steadfast, smashing three fours and four sixes before Rinku Singh hit the winning boundary to seal the game.
Earlier in the innings, Kuldeep Yadav proved to be the game-changer with his impressive spell of 4-30. He triggered a dramatic collapse for Pakistan, who went from a strong position of 113/1 to being all out for 146 in just 19.1 overs. While Sahibzada Farhan and Fakhar Zaman gave Pakistan a solid start, Kuldeep’s wrist spin tore through their middle order, claiming three wickets in a sensational 17th over.
The atmosphere surrounding the match was electric, both on and off the field. From Jasprit Bumrah’s playful mimicry of Haris Rauf’s earlier gesture after dismissing him, to yet another intense encounter without the customary post-match handshakes between the two teams, the rivalry lived up to its reputation for high drama and sporting tension.
Ultimately, the night belonged to India. With jubilant fans filling the Dubai International Stadium and the BCCI’s substantial financial reward adding to the glory, this victory was more than just another trophy; it was a powerful statement of intent as they look ahead to next year’s T20 World Cup, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.