Rohan Choudhary
India stamped their authority in the Asia Cup 2025 Super Fours with a commanding 6-wicket victory over arch-rivals Pakistan at the Dubai International Stadium, thanks to a blistering innings by young opener Abhishek Sharma, who lit up the contest with a 39-ball 74.
Batting first, Pakistan posted a competitive 171/5 in 20 overs. Sahibzada Farhan anchored the innings with a fluent 58 off 45 balls, while cameos from Mohammad Nawaz and skipper Babar Azam ensured a fighting total. India’s bowlers, however, kept things in check — Shivam Dube struck twice, while Kuldeep Yadav and Hardik Pandya chipped in with crucial breakthroughs.
Chasing 172, India’s openers gave a flying start. Abhishek Sharma stole the show with his fearless strokeplay, smashing 6 fours and 5 sixes, and putting Pakistan’s bowlers under immense pressure. He found an able ally in Shubman Gill, who contributed a quickfire 47 off 28 balls. Later, Tilak Varma (30\* off 19) steered India home calmly as the Men in Blue crossed the finish line at 174/4 in 18.5 overs.
For Pakistan, Abrar Ahmed managed to dismiss Abhishek, while Haris Rauf and Shaheen Afridi picked a wicket each, but their efforts went in vain as India’s top order proved too strong.
With this win, India strengthened their position in the Super Fours and sent out a strong message ahead of the final stages of the tournament. Abhishek Sharma, adjudged Player of the Match, continues to emerge as India’s rising star, showcasing maturity and aggression in equal measure.
