Confident team India produced a commanding performance to outclass Pakistan in their Asia Cup 2025 group-stage encounter, with Suryakumar Yadav anchoring the run chase after an early wobble.
Put to Chase 128, India lost Tilak Varma, Shubman Gill, and Abhishek Sharma cheaply, raising Pakistan’s hopes of a fightback. But Suryakumar showcased his trademark composure and flair, counterattacking with boundaries to put the game firmly in India’s control. His dominance silenced the opposition attack and ensured there were no further hiccups.
Earlier, Pakistan’s batting faltered against India’s disciplined bowling. Kuldeep Yadav led the charge with three wickets, bamboozling Pakistan’s middle order. Axar Patel and Jasprit Bumrah chipped in with two each, while Hardik Pandya and Varun Chakravarthy picked one apiece. Only Sahibzada Farhan, with a gritty 44, offered resistance before Shaheen Afridi’s late fireworks, 33 off 16 balls, pushed Pakistan to 127/9.
India’s decision to back a spin-heavy attack paid dividends once again, with only Bumrah as the specialist seamer, supported by all-rounders Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube.
Ahead of the contest, Shoaib Akhtar had bluntly warned Pakistan that “India is going to hammer you.” His words rang true as India extended their dominance in the high-voltage rivalry.
