Kashmir, September 14, 2025 – India delivered a commanding performance, thrashing Pakistan by seven wickets in just 15.5 overs during their Group A clash in the Men’s T20 Asia Cup 2025 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Chasing a modest 126, the Men in Blue showcased their batting prowess and clinical execution, reinforcing their dominance in the iconic India-Pakistan rivalry.Pakistan, batting first after winning the toss, struggled against India’s relentless bowling attack. Jasprit Bumrah set the tone early, dismissing Mohammad Haris for a duck in the opening over, while Hardik Pandya struck next, removing Saim Ayub for a golden duck, leaving Pakistan at 2/2. A brief resistance from Fakhar Zaman (32) and Salman Agha (25) offered hope, but India’s spinners turned the tide.
Kuldeep Yadav’s mesmerising wrist-spin claimed three wickets, and Axar Patel chipped in with two, dismantling the middle order. Pakistan limped to 125/9 in 20 overs, with Shaheen Afridi’s late flourish proving insufficient.India’s chase was a masterclass in aggression and control. Openers Abhishek Sharma (30) and Yashasvi Jaiswal (28) blazed away, amassing 50 runs in the powerplay. Despite Shaheen Afridi’s breakthrough, Suryakumar Yadav (35*) and Rishabh Pant (42*) sealed the deal with an unbroken 68-run stand. Yadav’s audacious flips and Pant’s elegant drives ensured India crossed the line in 15.5 overs, losing only three wickets.“It was a complete performance.
The bowlers set it up, and the batters finished with intent,” said captain Suryakumar Yadav post-match. Pakistan’s Salman Agha admitted, “We couldn’t capitalize with the bat, and their spinners were exceptional.” The win propels India to the top of Group A, strengthening their Super Fours prospects.
