India registered a commanding win over arch-rivals Pakistan in their Group A clash of Asia Cup 2025.
India cruise to comfortable win over Pakistan in Group A clash
Chasing a modest target of 128, India secured victory by seven wickets with 25 balls remaining, showcasing dominance in all departments of the game. Captain Suryakumar Yadav, who turned 35 on the same day, played a captain’s knock with an unbeaten 47 runs off 37 balls. His innings, laced with composure and timely strokes, ensured that India never lost control of the chase.
India’s chase was given early impetus by Abhishek Sharma, who smashed 31 runs off just 13 balls, dismantling Pakistan’s bowling attack in the powerplay. His aggressive knock set the stage for a smooth chase, allowing the middle order to consolidate. After Abhishek’s departure, the experienced Suryakumar took charge, rotating the strike smartly and finding the boundaries when required. Alongside him, Shivam Dube played a supporting role, ensuring India crossed the finish line without drama.
Pakistan, after opting to bat first, could only muster 127/9 in their 20 overs. The Indian bowlers set the tone early, and Pakistan never truly recovered from regular wickets. Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel and Varun Chakaravarthy combined effectively to share six wickets, dismantling Pakistan’s middle order and ensuring the target was always within India’s reach.
No handshakes between India and Pakistan players at the end of the match
The match carried heavy emotions, and the atmosphere at the ground reflected the ongoing tension between the two nations. Once the winning runs were scored, there were no post-match handshakes between the two sides. Instead, Suryakumar Yadav and Shivam Dube, who remained unbeaten on 10, walked straight back to the dressing room.
Suryakumar Yadav pays tribute to the victims of Pahalgam terror attack and dedicates victory over Pakistan to Indian Armed Forces
At the post-match presentation, Suryakumar used the opportunity to send a powerful message. Dedicating the win to the Indian Armed Forces, the skipper expressed solidarity with the victims of Pahalgam terror attack, which had claimed 26 innocent lives earlier this year. The incident had triggered Operation Sindoor, where India launched targeted strikes on terrorist camps across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).
“Perfect occasion, taking the time out, we stand by the victims of the families of the Pahalgam terror attack. We express our solidarity. Want to dedicate the win to all our armed forces who showed a lot of bravery. Hope they continue to inspire us all, and we give them more reasons on the ground whenever we get an opportunity to make them smile,” Suryakumar said.
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His emotional words resonated strongly with fans, many of whom had raised concerns over India facing Pakistan in the tournament given the political climate.
Adding to the moment, commentator Sanjay Manjrekar greeted Suryakumar with a birthday wish during the post-match presentation. In response, the Indian skipper smiled and called the win the “perfect return gift” for the fans back home.
“It feels great to win on a day like this. Playing against Pakistan always carries extra meaning, and this victory is my return gift to India,” Suryakumar added.
