Dubai: In a high-voltage encounter at the Asia Cup Super Fours, India defeated arch-rivals Pakistan by six wickets, sealing another statement win in their campaign. The match at Dubai International Stadium combined tense moments, brilliant individual performances, and the familiar charged atmosphere that comes with an India–Pakistan showdown.
Batting first after losing the toss, Pakistan put up 171 for 5 on the board. Sahibzada Farhan anchored the innings with a determined half-century, stabilizing the side after early nerves. Skipper Salman Ali Agha and all-rounder Faheem Ashraf provided crucial late-order fireworks, ensuring Pakistan finished with a competitive total. India’s fielding, however, was sloppy at times, with multiple dropped catches giving Pakistan breathing space and a chance to accelerate toward the end.
India’s reply was explosive from the start, thanks to opener Abhishek Sharma, who smashed a stunning 74 off just 39 balls. Partnering with Shubman Gill, he set the tone with aggressive stroke-play, putting Pakistan’s bowlers under pressure. Even after Sharma’s dismissal, Tilak Varma kept the momentum going, while the rest of the batting lineup ensured India crossed the finish line comfortably. The chase wrapped up in 18.5 overs, underlining India’s batting dominance.
Beyond the cricket, the match carried an undertone of unease. The captains refrained from shaking hands at the toss, a gesture that reignited talk of off-field tensions between the sides. Suryakumar Yadav’s decision to bowl first paid dividends, though Pakistan’s late surge tested India’s composure briefly. The charged crowd in Dubai added to the drama, with emotions running high on both sides of the stadium.
With this victory, India remain unbeaten in the tournament and look well-placed to reach the Asia Cup final. Pakistan, on the other hand, will need to regroup quickly, especially in their bowling and fielding departments, to keep their hopes alive. The match was a reminder that while India’s batting depth continues to shine, Pakistan’s ability to fight back with grit keeps the rivalry fiercely competitive.