In a thrilling encounter in Dubai, India and Pakistan are set to clash in a historic Asia Cup final, marking their first-ever meeting in the tournament’s championship match. The highly anticipated showdown will take place this Sunday at the iconic Dubai International Stadium.
Pakistan secured their spot in the final with a hard-fought 11-run victory over Bangladesh on Friday, in what was essentially a do-or-die semi-final. Chasing a target of 136, Bangladesh’s innings was continuously disrupted by Pakistan’s disciplined bowling attack, ultimately finishing at 124 for 9 wickets.
Shamim Hossain attempted to anchor the chase for Bangladesh with a resilient 30 runs off 25 balls. However, his dismissal by the formidable Shaheen Shah Afridi in the 17th over — while attempting a reverse hit — effectively sealed Bangladesh’s fate. Afridi was the standout bowler, claiming an impressive 3 wickets for just 17 runs. His impactful performance also included a quickfire cameo of 19 runs off 13 balls earlier in the match, having been promoted up the batting order. Pacer Haris Rauf also played a crucial role, contributing with three wickets.
Earlier in the match, after being asked to bat first, Pakistan managed to post a competitive total of 135 for 8. Bangladesh’s bowlers started strong, making early inroads into Pakistan’s top order and putting them under considerable pressure. Both the in-form Sahibzada Farhan and the struggling Saim Ayub departed quickly.
Taskin Ahmed delivered the first blow in the fourth ball of the match, enticing Farhan into an aerial shot that was safely caught by Rishad Hossain at backward point. Saim Ayub’s poor run of form continued as he registered his fifth duck in seven matches. Fakhar Zaman also struggled for runs before being dismissed, and Hussain Talat failed to make any significant contribution.
Final Scores: Pakistan 135/8 defeated Bangladesh 124/9 by 11 runs.