Pakistan secured a 41-run victory against the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in their final group match of the Asia Cup 2025, setting up a highly anticipated Super Four clash with arch-rivals India. The match, which was delayed by an hour, saw Pakistan overcome a shaky start to post a total of 146/9, thanks to a late surge from Shaheen Afridi. The UAE, in response, were unable to mount a significant challenge and were eventually bowled out for 105.
The victory was crucial for Pakistan, ensuring their place in the Super Four stage of the tournament, where they will face India on Sunday, September 21st. This sets the stage for another thrilling encounter between the two cricket giants, a rivalry that always attracts immense attention and excitement from fans worldwide.
Pakistan's innings was characterized by early wickets and a struggle to build momentum. Openers Saim Ayub and Sahibzada Farhan fell cheaply, leaving the team in a precarious position. However, a steady partnership between Salman Agha and Fakhar Zaman helped stabilize the innings before wickets fell at regular intervals once again. Shaheen Afridi's late cameo, where he scored an unbeaten 29 off 14 balls, including two sixes and a four in the final over, proved vital in lifting Pakistan to a competitive total. Junaid Siddique was the pick of the UAE bowlers, taking 4 wickets.
In reply, the UAE struggled to gain a foothold in their chase. Shaheen Afridi struck early, removing Alishan Sharafu, while Abrar Ahmed accounted for UAE captain Muhammad Waseem. A brief partnership between Dhruv Parashar and Rahul Chopra offered some resistance, but Pakistan's bowlers continued to chip away at the wickets. Haris Rauf and Abrar Ahmed took two wickets each, while Salman Agha also contributed with a scalp. The UAE's innings eventually folded for 105, handing Pakistan a comfortable victory.
Shaheen Afridi's all-round performance earned him the player-of-the-match award, as he starred with both bat and ball. His late hitting propelled Pakistan to a respectable total, and his early wicket in the UAE innings set the tone for Pakistan's dominance.
The Asia Cup 2025, being held in the United Arab Emirates from September 9 to 28, features eight teams competing in the T20 format. The tournament follows a format of group stage, Super Four, and a final. With Pakistan joining India in the Super Four from Group A, the stage is set for a thrilling contest between the two.
The India-Pakistan rivalry in the Asia Cup has a rich history, with India having won 11 of the 20 matches played between the two sides, while Pakistan has won 6. Three matches ended without a result. In T20Is, India holds a 2-1 lead over Pakistan in Asia Cup encounters. The most recent clash between the two in the Asia Cup 2025 saw India emerge victorious by 7 wickets.
The upcoming match on September 21st is expected to be another high-voltage affair, with both teams eager to assert their dominance. While India may be considered favorites due to their current form, Pakistan has the potential to cause an upset, making it a must-watch contest for cricket fans around the globe.
