IND vs PAK: As the Asia Cup 2025 races toward an electrifying finish, bowlers have played just as big a role as the batters. While power-hitting has grabbed headlines, it’s the consistent wicket-taking performances that have often swung games and defined momentum.
Among the standout performers with the ball, Kuldeep Yadav for India and Haris Rauf for Pakistan have emerged as the leading wicket-takers for their respective sides, providing crucial breakthroughs when it mattered most. With the stage set for an iconic India vs Pakistan final, here’s a closer look at the bowlers who’ve made the biggest impact so far.
Top Wicket-Takers For India
Kuldeep Yadav – 13 wickets | Avg: 9.84 | Econ: 6.04 | SR: 9.76
India’s left-arm wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav has been in devastating form this tournament, bagging 13 wickets in just 6 matches. With best figures of 4/7, Kuldeep has been unplayable on turning tracks, bamboozling batters with his variations. His staggering average of 9.84 and strike rate of 9.76 underline just how effective he has been in short bursts.
His control in the middle overs has helped India strangle oppositions, often leading to collapses. With no five-wicket haul yet, Kuldeep will surely be eyeing the final as a perfect stage to go one step further.
Varun Chakaravarthy – 5 wickets | Avg: 22.60 | Econ: 6.27
Varun Chakravarthy, India’s mystery spinner, has quietly chipped in with 5 wickets from 5 matches, operating with tight economy and deceptive deliveries. While not headline-grabbing, his knack for breaking partnerships has been invaluable, especially when paired with Kuldeep.
Jasprit Bumrah – 5 wickets | Avg: 22.00 | Econ: 7.33
Back in full rhythm, Jasprit Bumrah has delivered crucial spells at both ends of the innings. His 5 wickets in 4 games, including a best of 2/18, reflect more than just stats – it’s the pressure he builds and the breakthroughs he triggers that count. With an economy of 7.33, Bumrah remains India’s trump card in the death overs.
Top Wicket-Takers for Pakistan
Haris Rauf – 9 wickets | Avg: 12.77 | Econ: 7.84 | SR: 9.77
Pakistan’s express pacer Haris Rauf has been breathing fire in this year’s Asia Cup. Despite playing only 4 matches, he has picked up 9 wickets, proving to be a strike bowler every time he’s taken the ball. His best figures of 3/33 barely reflect the full extent of his threat, with raw pace and deadly bouncers unsettling even the best of batters.
His average of 12.77 and strike rate of 9.77 are nearly identical to Kuldeep’s, setting up a fascinating comparison going into the final.
Shaheen Shah Afridi – 9 wickets | Avg: 16.00 | Econ: 6.91
Shaheen Afridi’s reputation as a big-match player continues to grow. With 9 wickets in 6 matches, the left-arm pacer has regularly struck in the powerplay, setting the tone early for Pakistan. His 3/17 remains one of the best spells in the tournament, and with the final looming, India’s top order will be wary of his trademark inswingers.
Saim Ayub – 8 wickets | Avg: 14.00 | Econ: 6.58
A surprise package in the bowling unit, Saim Ayub has made the most of his opportunities with the ball. His 8 wickets in 5 innings, including a best of 3/35, have been a revelation – especially considering he’s primarily seen as a batter. His role as a part-time spinner has added great balance to the Pakistani attack.
| Player | Team | Wickets | Average | Economy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kuldeep Yadav | India | 13 | 9.84 | 6.04 |
| Haris Rauf | Pakistan | 9 | 12.77 | 7.84 |
| Shaheen Shah Afridi | Pakistan | 9 | 16.00 | 6.91 |
| Saim Ayub | Pakistan | 8 | 14.00 | 6.58 |
| Varun Chakravarthy | India | 5 | 22.60 | 6.27 |
| Jasprit Bumrah | India | 5 | 22.00 | 7.33 |
As we head into the much-awaited final between India and Pakistan on September 28 in Dubai, the bowling matchups promise as much drama as the batting fireworks. Kuldeep’s spin wizardry vs Haris and Shaheen’s fiery pace will be a battle to savour.
With the top bowlers peaking at the right time, the Asia Cup 2025 final could very well be decided not by the bat, but by who holds their nerve with the ball.
