DUBAI: India were left reeling in the Asia Cup 2025 final at Dubai International Cricket Stadium after managing only 36 runs in the powerplay, their lowest of the tournament and the third-lowest against Pakistan in T20 internationals. Pakistan’s bowlers seized control with early breakthroughs, leaving India under severe pressure in the high-stakes chase.
The collapse began when Abhishek Sharma, India’s in-form opener, fell for just five runs. Attempting to clear the field against Faheem Ashraf, he mistimed a lofted shot that was caught at mid-on. The dismissal rattled India’s top order, slowing the scoring rate and exposing their middle order early.
Pakistan then struck twice more inside the first four overs. Salman Ali Agha pulled off a diving, juggling catch to dismiss Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav, who mishit a drive off a slower delivery. Soon after, Shubman Gill was removed when Haris Rauf leapt high at mid-on to complete a sharp grab from another Faheem Ashraf cutter.
The three quick wickets left India three down within the powerplay, with Pakistan’s attack brimming with energy. The early setbacks forced India into a rebuilding phase as Pakistan’s bowlers continued to dictate terms in the final.
