After India's thrilling victory against Pakistan in the Asia Cup final, Tilak Varma, thePlayer of the Match, credited Sanju Samson and Shivam Dube for their crucial contributions to the team's success. Varma, who played a sensational, unbeaten innings of 69 runs, acknowledged the pressure India faced early in the innings and praised Samson and Dube for their ability to perform under pressure.
India defeated Pakistan by five wickets in a tense final to claim their ninth Asia Cup title. After choosing to bowl first, India bowled out Pakistan for 146. Varma remained unbeaten on 69 off 53 balls, while Dube added a quick 33 off 22, sharing a crucial 60-run partnership for the fifth wicket. Kuldeep Yadav starred with 4/30 in four overs, supported by spinners Varun Chakaravarthy (2/30), Axar Patel (2/26), and pacer Jasprit Bumrah (2/25).
Varma highlighted the importance of the partnerships he formed with both Samson and Dube, noting that Dube's innings was particularly vital for the country. He emphasized the team's focus on flexibility, stating that the players are prepared to bat in any position. Varma said he was ready to bat at any position and was backing his game. He also mentioned working with "Gauti sir" (likely Gautam Gambhir) to improve his game on slower wickets.
Coming in with India reeling early at 20/3, Tilak delivered an innings of poise and precision under pressure to hit three fours and four sixes in a knock to be remembered for ages. Reduced to 20 for 3 inside the Powerplay, Tilak Varma and Sanju Samson joined forces and managed to bring some calm to the proceedings with a 57-run stand. Apart from Dube, Varma also had an important partnership with Sanju Samson which steadied the innings.
Varma described his match-winning innings as "one of the most special knocks of my life" and dedicated it to all Indians. He said that it was pressure and that Pakistan were bowling well, mixing their pace. He was breathing and trying to stay calm.
Shubman Gill, India's vice-captain, also lauded Varma, Samson, and Dube for their batting performances. He noted that after losing three early wickets, the plan was to take the innings as deep as possible, and he praised the trio for their contributions.
India's spin trio of Kuldeep, Varun, and Axar turned the game, claiming nine wickets for 33 runs to tighten the screws. This marks India's third win over Pakistan in the tournament, following victories in the league and Super 4 stages.
The Asia Cup victory marks India's ninth title in the tournament's history.
