Can Pakistan Overcome India After Narrowly Defeating Bangladesh in Asia Cup?
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Synopsis
In a nail-biting encounter at the Asia Cup, Pakistan's Rauf and Shaheen put on a stellar performance, leading their team to a gripping 11-run victory against Bangladesh. This win sets up a highly anticipated final against India, marking a historic clash in the tournament's history. Will Pakistan rise to the occasion against their arch-rivals?
Key Takeaways
- Haris Rauf and Shaheen Shah Afridi were instrumental in Pakistan's win.
- Pakistan's bowlers excelled, claiming key wickets.
- Bangladesh faltered under pressure with poor shot selection.
- The final match against India is highly anticipated.
- Historic moment as it marks the first final between the two teams in Asia Cup history.
Dubai, Sep 26 (NationPress) The formidable fast bowling partnership of Haris Rauf and Shaheen Shah Afridi each took three wickets, helping Pakistan secure a thrilling 11-run victory against Bangladesh in a nail-biting Super Fours showdown of the Men's T20 Asia Cup at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Thursday. This victory sets the stage for an epic title match against their long-time rivals, India.
For the first time in 17 editions of the Asia Cup, the teams of India and Pakistan will meet in a title match. Shaheen spearheaded the attack, dismantling Bangladesh's top order, who contributed significantly to their own demise with questionable shot selection and poor communication.
Although Shamim Hossain provided some resistance, his wicket to Shaheen ignited a collapse, leading Bangladesh to finish at 124/9 after 20 overs. Shaheen's figures were an impressive 3-17, while Rauf concluded with 3-33.
Earlier, on a pitch showing signs of wear, fast bowler Taskin Ahmed led a disciplined bowling display, finishing with 3-28, which restricted Pakistan to 135/8.
Bangladesh's bowlers, benefiting from a surface that provided grip and turn, took wickets at crucial moments, with Taskin well-supported by Rishad Hossain, Mustafizur Rahman, and Mahedi Hasan.
Pakistan struggled to gain momentum, only surpassing the 130-run mark due to valuable contributions of 31 and 25 from Mohammad Haris and Mohammad Nawaz, respectively. While Bangladesh had the upper hand at the midpoint, their lackluster batting and Pakistan's spirited bowling ensured a highly anticipated India-Pakistan showdown to determine the champion of this eight-team tournament.
Brief scores:
Pakistan 135/8 in 20 overs (Mohammad Haris 31, Mohammad Nawaz 25; Taskin Ahmed 3-28, Rishad Hossain 2-18) beat Bangladesh 124/9 in 20 overs (Shamim Hossain 30, Saif Hassan 18; Shaheen Shah Afridi 3-17, Haris Rauf 3-33) by 11 runs.
Point of View
It is evident that Pakistan's performance, particularly from their fast bowlers, was exceptional. While Bangladesh faltered under pressure, the strategic brilliance of Pakistan's bowlers shone through. The upcoming match against India promises to be an enthralling encounter that cricket fans will not want to miss.
NationPress
25/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the final score of the match?
Pakistan won by 11 runs, scoring 135/8 and restricting Bangladesh to 124/9.
Who were the standout bowlers for Pakistan?
Haris Rauf and Shaheen Shah Afridi each took three wickets, playing a pivotal role in the victory.
When is the final match against India scheduled?
The final match between Pakistan and India will take place in the coming days, marking a historic clash in the Asia Cup.
What contributed to Pakistan's win?
Pakistan's win was attributed to strong bowling performances and a collapse in Bangladesh's batting lineup.
How many Asia Cup editions have featured India vs Pakistan finals?
This is the first time in 17 editions of the Asia Cup that India and Pakistan will meet in a final.
