Pakistan secured their place in the Asia Cup 2025 final against India with a tense 11-run victory over Bangladesh at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Thursday. In aSuper Four match that served as a virtual semi-final, Pakistan held their nerve to defend a modest total of 135/8, restricting Bangladesh to 124/9.

The victory sets up a highly anticipated final between arch-rivals India and Pakistan on Sunday, September 28. This will be the first time the two nations have met in the Asia Cup final.

Bangladesh won the toss and opted to bowl, and their bowlers initially put Pakistan under immense pressure. Taskin Ahmed spearheaded the attack, claiming three crucial wickets, while Rishad Hossain and Mahedi Hasan each took two, leaving Pakistan struggling at 49/5 at one stage. The top order struggled to build partnerships on a pitch that offered low bounce and turn.

Pakistan's innings was shaky from the start, with early wickets falling quickly. Saim Ayub's poor form continued as he registered his fourth duck of the tournament. However, crucial cameos from Mohammad Haris (31), Mohammad Nawaz (25), and Shaheen Afridi (19) helped Pakistan recover to post a fighting total of 135/8. Pakistan added 80 runs in the last eight overs, which proved vital in the end.

Defending a modest total, Pakistan's bowlers delivered a disciplined performance. Shaheen Shah Afridi led the charge with 3/17, while Haris Rauf provided crucial breakthroughs in the back end, finishing with 3/33. Saim Ayub (2/16) and Mohammad Nawaz (1/14) also chipped in with valuable wickets.

Bangladesh's chase started nervously, losing Parvez Hossain Emon early to Shaheen Afridi. They kept losing wickets at regular intervals and were eventually restricted to 124/9. Haris Rauf's inspired spell of 3/33 was instrumental in Pakistan's victory.

Despite a valiant effort, Bangladesh crumbled under pressure, losing wickets and failing to build substantial partnerships. Their sloppy fielding and dropped catches also contributed to their downfall.

With this win, Pakistan has not only qualified for the final but also avenged their loss to India in the Super Fours stage. The stage is now set for a thrilling encounter between India and Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2025 final.