India Dominate Pakistan by 45 Runs in Asia Cup Thriller

Dubai, September 14, 2025 - India posted a commanding total of 220 for 5 and then skittled Pakistan out for 175, clinching a 45-run victory in their Group A clash at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.

An incisive batting display and ruthless spin attack paved the way for India’s emphatic win, reaffirming their dominance in the storied rivalry.

India’s Batting Onslaught Sets the Tone

India’s innings was built on aggressive starts and sustained momentum. Opener Abhishek Sharma drove the scoring with a blistering 61, laying the platform for Suryakumar Yadav’s powerful 62 in the middle overs. Lower down, Hardik Pandya unleashed a late-innings assault, smashing an unbeaten 36 off just 12 balls, while Shivam Dube provided valuable support with a quickfire 21. India’s 20-over total of 220 represented the highest score in the India-Pakistan T20 rivalry at this venue.

Spin Attack Breaks Pakistan’s Backbone

In reply, Pakistan never recovered from early setbacks. India’s trio of wrist spinners ran riot:

  • Kuldeep Yadav claimed three key wickets for just 24 runs in his four overs.
  • Varun Chakravarthy extracted sharp turn to finish with figures of 2 for 36.
  • Axar Patel chipped in with two crucial breakthroughs.

Pakistan faltered from 83 for 3 to 110 for 8 as wickets tumbled in clusters. A late cameo by Shaheen Shah Afridi (33* off 16 balls) stemmed the flow but proved insufficient, as Pakistan were bowled out for 175 in 19.2 overs.

Turning Points and Tactical Masterstrokes

  • India’s decision to play three spinners paid dividends on the slow, turning surface.
  • Early breakthroughs by Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya stemmed Pakistan’s powerplay momentum.
  • Suryakumar Yadav marshaled the spin assault from the captain’s chair, using proactive field placements to great effect.

Implications for the Tournament

India’s victory keeps them unbeaten in the group stage and positions them firmly at the top of the points table. Pakistan, facing a crucial must-win scenario in their remaining fixtures, will need to rediscover their top-order form and counter India’s spin quartet to stay in contention.