Doha, Qatar – In a stunning turn of events at the Asia Cup Rising Stars 2025, India A succumbed to an unexpected eight-wicket defeat against Pakistan A. The match, held at the West End Park International Cricket Stadium in Doha, saw Pakistan A chase down a modest target of 137 with 40 balls to spare, securing their place as the first team in the semi-finals.
India A, after winning against UAE, faced their first defeat of the campaign. Opting to bat first, India A started strong, reaching 91 for 3 in the 10th over. Vaibhav Suryavanshi, the 14-year-old sensation, led the charge with a blistering 45 off 28 balls, including five boundaries and three sixes. Naman Dhir also contributed a quickfire 35 from 20 balls. It appeared India A was heading towards a total in the range of 175-180.
However, the dismissals of Suryavanshi and Dhir triggered a dramatic batting collapse. Suryavanshi's wicket, a mishit caught by Mohammad Faiq at long-on, proved decisive. From that point, Pakistan seized control, with Shahid Aziz leading the bowling attack, taking 3 wickets for 24 runs. Saad Masood and Maaz Sadaqat supported him, claiming two wickets each. The Indian middle and lower order faltered under pressure, losing their last eight wickets for a mere 35 runs in the final 10 overs. India A was eventually bowled out for 136 in 19 overs, which is the lowest score in the tournament so far.
Chasing a target of 137, Pakistan A dominated from the start. Maaz Sadaqat played a match-winning knock, remaining unbeaten on 79 off 47 balls. He led the chase with an aggressive approach, leaving the Indian bowlers with few answers. Mohammad Faiq finished the job in style, hitting a six off Naman Dhir over deep mid-wicket. Pakistan A reached the target in just 13.2 overs with eight wickets in hand.
The Pakistan Shaheens have booked their place in the semi-finals with this win. They have 4 points in 2 games and a +2.810 net run rate, making it impossible for them to fall out of the top 2 in Group B. India A and Oman are currently on 2 points each and will face each other in the final group stage match.
Notably, in line with the BCCI's policy, the India A team continued to avoid handshakes with the Pakistan A team. This decision was made to show solidarity with the victims of the recent Pahalgam terror attack.
