Asia Cup 2025 Final: Pakistan to Face India After Beating Bangladesh

DUBAI: Pakistan secured their place in the Asia Cup 2025 final against India after a hard-fought 11-run victory over Bangladesh in their Super Four clash at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Thursday. The win confirmed yet another high-profile Pakistan vs India showdown, marking the first time the two archrivals will meet in the Asia Cup final in the tournament’s 17 editions.

Pakistan were in deep trouble at 49-5 by the 11th over after a dramatic top-order collapse on a turning pitch. However, Shaheen Afridi and Mohammad Haris steadied the innings with crucial lower-order resistance. Shaheen contributed 19 off 13 balls, while Haris played a vital knock of 31 runs, giving Pakistan just enough momentum to post a competitive total of 135-8. Mohammad Nawaz and Faheem Ashraf added important runs, capitalizing on Bangladesh’s sloppy fielding which included multiple dropped catches, among them a chance to dismiss Shaheen.

Shaheen Afridi was the star of the night, winning the player of the match award for his all-round performance. He struck early in trademark fashion, finishing with figures of 3-17 and breaking Bangladesh’s momentum in the powerplay overs. “I attacked up front as the team needed an early breakthrough — the three overs in the powerplay made all the difference,” he said, dedicating the award to his wife and son.

Skipper Salman Ali Agha praised his team’s resilience, saying, “If we can win these kinds of games, then we must be a special team.” He also singled out Haris for his fighting contribution, calling him a “special player” under pressure.

Bangladesh, despite moments of promise, failed to counter Pakistan’s relentless pace and spin attack. Their chase faltered as Pakistan’s bowlers worked in tandem, supported by a charged atmosphere on the field and a visibly anxious coaching staff urging their side on from the sidelines.

With this result, Pakistan now turn their focus to the Asia Cup 2025 final against India, scheduled for Sunday in Dubai. The clash promises to be one of the most highly anticipated encounters in the tournament’s history, adding another chapter to the storied rivalry between the two cricketing giants.