Pakistan will enter the Asia Cup 2025 final in Dubai on Sunday with one burning desire – to finally end their painful losing streak against arch-rivals India. The highly anticipated clash promises fireworks, with emotions running high both on and off the field.
India, unbeaten throughout the tournament, remain firm favorites to defend their title. They have bulldozed every opponent on their way to the final, looking every inch the reigning T20 world champions. Pakistan, on the other hand, have already fallen to India twice – once in the group stage and again in the Super Fours – results that have left the men in green desperate for redemption.
India’s dominance has been spearheaded by opener Abhishek Sharma, currently the tournament’s leading run-getter with 309 runs. His explosive hitting in the powerplay overs has consistently given India flying starts, while Varun Chakravarthy and Kuldeep Yadav have dismantled opposition line-ups with spin. Jasprit Bumrah’s precision with the new ball has further tightened India’s grip in crunch situations.
For Pakistan, however, hope is not lost. Their morale received a boost with a hard-fought win over Bangladesh in what was effectively a semi-final. That victory reminded fans and critics alike that Pakistan can rise to the occasion when under pressure. With passionate support expected in Dubai, Pakistan will be banking on their fast-bowling arsenal and experienced middle order to finally deliver on the big stage.
Tensions are guaranteed to be high, as the match marks the third meeting between the neighbors in this tournament. With national pride, regional rivalry, and the Asia Cup trophy at stake, Sunday’s showdown could prove to be one of the fiercest chapters in the storied India-Pakistan cricket rivalry.