Dubai, Sep 28 (NationPress) The left-handed batsman Tilak Varma stepped up to the challenge, scoring an unbeaten 69 runs and leading India to a remarkable five-wicket victory against their long-time rivals, Pakistan. This triumph marks India's ninth Asia Cup title, achieved at the Dubai International Stadium on Sunday.

With India in a precarious position at 20/3, Varma showcased his skill and composure under pressure, hitting three fours and four sixes in an innings that will be remembered for years to come. While his teammates struggled, Varma anchored the chase, delivering a masterclass in both timing and temperament. His performance ensured India crossed the finish line with just two balls remaining, concluding a tournament filled with excitement and intensity with a well-deserved trophy.

Earlier, Kuldeep Yadav spearheaded India's bowling attack, clinching a phenomenal four-wicket haul, which included three wickets in a single over. India executed a remarkable turnaround, bowling out Pakistan for 146 runs in just 19.1 overs. Initially, Pakistan's batting appeared strong, racing to 113/1 in 12.4 overs, threatening a score of over 180.

However, under the crafty spin of India's bowlers, who collectively took eight wickets, Pakistan's batting collapsed dramatically. Attempting risky aerial shots, they lost their last nine wickets for a mere 33 runs, squandering their early advantage.

Kuldeep, who had started with 23 runs in his first two overs, managed to secure four wickets for just seven runs in his subsequent two overs. He received excellent support from Jasprit Bumrah, Axar Patel, and Varun Chakaravarthy, each taking two wickets.

Brief Scores: Pakistan 146 in 19.1 overs (Sahibzada Farhan 57, Fakhar Zaman 46; Kuldeep Yadav 4-30, Jasprit Bumrah 2-25) lost to India 150/5 in 19.4 overs (Tilak Varma 69 not out, Shivam Dube 33; Faheem Ashraf 3-29, Shaheen Shah Afridi 1-20) by five wickets.