Dubai, September 25, 2025 — Pakistan held their nerve in a tense finish to beat Bangladesh by 11 runs and seal a blockbuster Asia Cup final clash against India. The win, built on disciplined bowling after a shaky batting display, ensured Pakistan’s first final appearance against India in the history of the tournament.
Pakistan stumble, then recover
Batting first, Pakistan’s innings was rocked early. At one stage they were reeling at 49 for 5, with Bangladesh bowlers exploiting the conditions brilliantly. But middle-order resistance from Mohammad Haris (31 off 24 balls) and Mohammad Nawaz (25 from 20) dragged them to a fighting total of 135 for 8 in 20 overs.
It wasn’t a commanding score, but Pakistan’s lower order managed to add crucial runs that kept them in the contest.
Bowlers deliver under pressure
Bangladesh’s chase looked on track briefly, thanks to a gritty 30 from Shamim Hossain, but Pakistan’s pace attack was relentless. Shaheen Afridi (3 for 22) and Haris Rauf (3 for 28) ripped through the batting order, while spinners applied the brakes in the middle overs.
Bangladesh kept losing wickets at regular intervals and were eventually restricted to 124 for 9, falling short despite some late resistance.
Missed chances haunt Bangladesh
Bangladesh coach Phil Simmons lamented his side’s mistakes, pointing to “dropped catches and poor shot selection” that shifted momentum back to Pakistan. Those errors, coupled with Pakistan’s sharper execution, proved decisive in the tight contest.
Final showdown set
The result now sets up a dream Asia Cup final between India and Pakistan, scheduled for Sunday in Dubai. India, unbeaten so far in the tournament, have already beaten Pakistan twice in this edition — by 7 wickets and 6 wickets.
For Pakistan, this is a golden chance to rewrite the script. Their last Asia Cup title came back in 2012, while India have dominated the competition in recent years. With emotions running high and the rivalry as fierce as ever, Sunday’s final promises to be one of the most watched cricket matches of the year.
