Team India produced a clinical performance against long-standing arch-rivals Pakistan in the sixth match of the Asia Cup 2025, securing a comprehensive 7-wicket win at the Dubai International Stadium. Although the victory was hailed with enthusiasm throughout India, the atmosphere in the Pakistani camp and nationwide was somber, with former cricketers openly lashing out at the team for its performance.
Pakistan Crumble After Winning the Toss
Winning the toss and opting to bat first, Pakistan wanted to put India in difficulty by setting them a target. But their innings went awry from the very first ball. Hardik Pandya struck right away, dismissing Saim Ayub off the very first ball of the game. It only continued to go wrong from there.
In the following over, a mishap between the wickets resulted in Mohammad Haris being run out by a quick bit of fielding by Jasprit Bumrah. From there, India’s spin attack – Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakaravarthy, and Axar Patel – took full control of the game, breaking down the Pakistani middle order.
Kuldeep Yadav: Took 3 wickets for only 18 runs
Axar Patel: Took 2 wickets with stingy spells
Varun Chakaravarthy: Put relentless pressure in the middle overs
Pakistan limped to 131/9 in their 20 overs, and they could not muster any resistance at all. The severity of the lack of intent and unhappy shot selection was the subject of discussion during their poor batting performance.
India Chase Down Target With Ease
Pursuing 128 (adjusted for DLS or extras), India never seemed under duress. Abhishek Sharma provided the side with a flying start with a scorching 31 from a mere 13 balls, setting the tone early on. Suryakumar Yadav maintained his second-rate form, holding the innings together and remaining not out on 47, leading India to a win in 15.5 overs.
The outcome was not just a statement victory for India but also a brutal reality check for Pakistan, whose game left the fans and ex-players intensely let down.
Afridi Blasts Pakistan’s Performance
Ex-captain Shahid Afridi was not short of words during his post-match reaction. In an interview with Samaa TV, Afridi criticized Pakistan’s opening-order strategy, specifically Saim Ayub.
“These batsmen should realize how to construct an innings. You can’t attempt to turn into Shahid Afridi from the first ball,” he stated bluntly.
“Saim Ayub needs to have a level head. Realize the pitch, play yourself in, then go at it.”
Afridi also criticized the team management for resting their top bowlers in this high-profile game.
“You can’t take on India with this type of bowling attack. And to add insult to injury, there isn’t a batsman in the team currently who seems ready to win games.”
His words echoed the dismay of the fans who anticipated a closer battle in such a big match.
India Soar, Pakistan Stumble
With this win, India continues to build strong momentum in the Asia Cup 2025, while Pakistan are left searching for answers. Whether it’s batting collapses or inconsistent bowling choices, the team has plenty to fix before their next outing.
As for the fans, they’ll be hoping that this loss serves as a wake-up call for Pakistan’s dressing room—and not just another forgettable chapter in this historic rivalry.
Also Read: PCB Files Complaint with ICC Over ‘No Handshake’ Controversy in India-Pakistan Asia Cup Clash
