The Asia Cup 2025 has given cricket fans some of the most exciting moments in recent times. But nothing compares to the hype surrounding the India vs Pakistan final, which will be played on Sunday, September 28, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. For the first time in the history of the Asia Cup, India and Pakistan will face off in the final, and the build-up to the match is already electrifying.
One of the biggest talking points after Pakistan’s victory over Bangladesh in the Super Fours was the performance of Shaheen Shah Afridi, Pakistan’s star left-arm fast bowler. Afridi delivered a brilliant spell, picking up 3 wickets for just 17 runs in four overs. His fiery performance not only secured Pakistan’s place in the final but also sent out a clear message to Suryakumar Yadav and the Indian team – “We are ready.”
Pakistan vs Bangladesh: A Must-Win Clash
Pakistan’s match against Bangladesh was nothing less than a knockout game. A loss would have sent them out of the tournament, but Afridi and his teammates stepped up at the right time.
- Pakistan scored 135 runs while batting first.
- In reply, Bangladesh was restricted to 124/9 in 20 overs.
- Afridi’s 3-wicket haul made him the hero of the match, earning him the Player of the Match award.
This win was historic because Pakistan successfully defended one of the lowest totals ever in T20 Asia Cup history. Their 135-run total now stands as the third-lowest total successfully defended in the competition.
Lowest Totals Defended in T20 Asia Cup History
- 129/8 – Sri Lanka vs UAE, 2016
- 133/8 – Bangladesh vs UAE, 2016
- 135/8 – Pakistan vs Bangladesh, 2025*
- 146/9 – Pakistan vs UAE, 2025
- 147/7 – Bangladesh vs Sri Lanka, 2016
This record underlines Pakistan’s fighting spirit and shows that their bowling attack can defend even modest totals.
India’s Dominance Over Pakistan So Far
While Pakistan is celebrating their entry into the final, it is important to note that India has beaten Pakistan twice already in this tournament.
- Group Stage (September 14): India won by 7 wickets.
- Super Fours (September 21): India won by 6 wickets.
These results have boosted India’s confidence, while Pakistan will look to turn things around in the most important match of the tournament.
India’s Record in the Asia Cup
India is by far the most successful team in Asia Cup history. Out of 16 editions, India has lifted the trophy 8 times. Their dominance in both the ODI and T20 formats of the Asia Cup has made them the team to beat.
On the other hand, Pakistan has won the Asia Cup only two times (2000 and 2012). This makes the 2025 final an opportunity for Pakistan to script history against their arch-rivals.
Shaheen Afridi – Pakistan’s Key Weapon
Shaheen Afridi has been one of the standout performers of Asia Cup 2025. With 9 wickets in 6 matches, he is currently the third-highest wicket-taker of the tournament.
What makes Afridi so dangerous?
- His ability to take early wickets with the new ball.
- Deadly yorkers at the death overs.
- His experience of handling pressure in big matches.
Against India, Afridi will once again play a crucial role. His battle with India’s top-order batsmen, including captain Suryakumar Yadav, could decide the outcome of the final.
The Build-Up to IND vs PAK Final
The excitement around the India vs Pakistan final is unmatched. Fans across the globe are eagerly waiting for this historic clash.
- This will be the first time India and Pakistan face each other in an Asia Cup final.
- India has dominated the recent encounters, but Pakistan’s confidence is high after their must-win game against Bangladesh.
- The final is expected to draw one of the largest global cricket viewerships of 2025.
The rivalry has also seen its fair share of controversies, adding more spice to the contest. From intense on-field battles to strong words exchanged off the field, every moment is being closely followed by cricket lovers.
What to Expect in the Final?
- High-Intensity Bowling Battles: Afridi vs Suryakumar Yadav and Jasprit Bumrah vs Babar Azam will be the duels to watch.
- Big-Hitting Finishers: India’s middle-order strength against Pakistan’s bowling depth.
- Pressure Situations: Since both teams are known for unpredictable moments, handling pressure will be key.
- Historic Outcome: Either India will win their 9th Asia Cup title or Pakistan will claim their 3rd – both results will make history.
Conclusion
The Asia Cup 2025 final between India and Pakistan promises to be one of the biggest cricket matches in recent history. With Shaheen Afridi sending a strong warning to the Indian team after his stellar performance against Bangladesh, Pakistan has made it clear they are ready for the challenge.
However, India’s dominance in the tournament and their winning record against Pakistan in this edition make them the favorites.
Will Afridi’s fiery pace and Pakistan’s fighting spirit script a historic win? Or will Suryakumar Yadav’s men continue India’s supremacy in Asia Cup finals? The world will find out on September 28 in Dubai.
Mitchell Starc bids farewell to T20Is to deliver with full force in Tests and the 2027 ODI World Cup. Discover how Australia’s pace legend plans to dominate the future of red-ball and 50-over cricket:
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