The Asia Cup 2025 T20 reaches its grand finale with a dream showdown between India and Pakistan on 28 September. This is the first time in the tournament’s history that the two arch-rivals will contest the final, setting the stage for an electrifying clash. Both sides arrive in Dubai after intense Super Four battles, with the winner poised to lift the trophy and claim continental supremacy in T20 cricket.

Match Info & Timing

• Venue: Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai, UAE

• Time (IST): Toss at 7:30 PM IST; first ball at 8:00 PM IST

Recent Performances & Road to Final

India

India stormed into the final unbeaten. In the Super Four stage, they produced a commanding win over Bangladesh with a total of 168/6 and disciplined bowling spearheaded by Kuldeep Yadav. Against Sri Lanka, India survived a tense Super Over after the scores were tied, showcasing composure under pressure. Earlier in the tournament, India defeated Pakistan twice — once in the group stage and once in the Super Four — establishing a psychological edge heading into the final.

Pakistan

Pakistan’s path was grittier. They secured their place in the final with a crucial 11-run win over Bangladesh in their Super Four decider, defending a modest total of 135/8. Their bowlers, led by Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf, held their nerve in a tight finish. Although Pakistan have lost twice to India in this edition, they have shown resilience and will be determined to script a turnaround on the biggest stage.

Players to Watch

India

• Abhishek Sharma: The tournament’s leading run-scorer whose aggressive starts have set the tone for India’s innings.

• Kuldeep Yadav: India’s spin spearhead, known for crucial breakthroughs in middle overs.

• Suryakumar Yadav (Captain): His leadership and finishing ability make him pivotal despite mixed form with the bat.

• Jasprit Bumrah / Arshdeep Singh: Key pace options expected to deliver in the powerplay and at the death.

Pakistan

• Shaheen Afridi: Pakistan’s strike bowler capable of dismantling India’s top order early.

• Haris Rauf & Abrar Ahmed: Responsible for controlling the run rate and taking wickets in the middle and death overs.

• Salman Agha (Captain): Tasked with leading from the front and marshalling Pakistan’s attack.

• Mohammad Nawaz / Mohammad Haris: All-round options who can contribute with both bat and ball on Dubai’s surface.

Conclusion

The final under the Dubai lights promises to be a fitting climax to Asia Cup 2025. India enter as favorites, unbeaten and brimming with confidence, but Pakistan’s fighting spirit and potent bowling attack mean the contest is far from a foregone conclusion. The battle between India’s aggressive top order and Pakistan’s lethal pace attack could decide the match, while fielding and composure under pressure will play equally crucial roles.

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