By | Arvind Jadhav
Dubai: In a dramatic contest that kept fans on the edge of their seats till the very last over, India defeated arch-rivals Pakistan by five wickets to lift the Asia Cup 2025 trophy. The clash lived up to its billing, combining nerves, skill, and raw emotion, before India sealed victory with just two balls to spare.
🟡 Pakistan’s Bright Start, Sudden Collapse
Electing to bat first, Pakistan seemed in total control with a 113-run opening partnership. However, the middle order faltered under pressure, as Indian bowlers struck in quick succession. What looked like a target of over 180 crumbled into a modest 146 all out.
🟡 India’s Rocky Chase
The chase began nervously for India, who slumped to 20/3, sparking tension in the stands and in commentary boxes. Pakistan’s seamers exploited the conditions, and for a moment it looked like India’s batting line-up would fold.
But young star Tilak Varma rose to the occasion. His unbeaten 69 off 53 balls anchored the innings, combining caution with aggression. He found crucial support from Shivam Dube (33 runs) and Sanju Samson (24 runs), who steadied the ship with mature partnerships. India eventually crossed the finish line in the 20th over, sparking wild celebrations in the dressing room and among traveling fans.
🟡 Drama at the Presentation
The celebrations were short-lived on stage. In an unexpected turn, the Indian team refused to collect the trophy and medals from ACC chairman and PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi. The gesture cut short the award ceremony and stirred a fresh wave of controversy. While the players rejoiced privately with supporters, the moment highlighted the tense undertone in Indo-Pak cricketing relations
🟡 Analysts Praise Calmness Under Pressure
Former cricketer and analyst Sanjay Manjrekar praised the young Indian line-up for their composure:
“I am glad he played it in that fashion (calm and composed) … Sunil Gavaskar was losing it in commentary when he saw those wickets fall, with everyone going for sixes. These are young players, but I thought Shivam Dube and Tilak Varma came of age today.”
His remarks captured the relief and joy many fans felt, as India’s new generation showed maturity beyond their years in one of cricket’s fiercest rivalries.
🟡 Fans Celebrate Historic Night
From Mumbai to Multan, cricket fans filled streets, clubs, and cafes to watch the game unfold. The electrifying atmosphere reflected the passion surrounding Indo-Pak clashes. Fireworks lit the Dubai sky as Indian supporters celebrated the win, calling it one of the most memorable finals in recent years.
