Pakistan booked their place in the Asia Cup 2025 final after a hard-fought 11-run win over Bangladesh in the Super Four clash on Thursday. The victory has set up a much-awaited final against arch-rivals India, scheduled for Sunday at the Dubai International Stadium.
Defending a low total of 135/8, Pakistan’s bowlers delivered under pressure, dismissing Bangladesh for 124. Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf led the charge with crucial breakthroughs that kept Bangladesh on the back foot throughout the chase. The result sparked excitement among fans, as it guaranteed another high-voltage India-Pakistan encounter in the tournament.
Earlier, Pakistan struggled with the bat after losing the toss. Young opener Saim Ayub fell for a duck, his fourth in six innings during this Asia Cup, while Fakhar Zaman managed only 13 runs. Captain Salman Agha added 19 before Mohammad Haris (31 off 23) and Mohammad Nawaz (25 off 15) lifted the innings with aggressive cameos. Shaheen Afridi contributed 19, and Faheem Ashraf remained unbeaten on 14, helping Pakistan reach 135/8 in 20 overs.
For Bangladesh, Taskin Ahmed bowled impressively, finishing with 3 wickets for 28 runs. Mahedi Hasan and Rishad Hossain picked up two wickets each, but their efforts were not enough to stop Pakistan.
With the win, Pakistan’s campaign has gained momentum despite their batting struggles. The focus now shifts to the blockbuster final against India, where fans worldwide will be eager to witness another chapter in cricket’s biggest rivalry.
