Pakistan clinched a tense win over Bangladesh in the virtual semifinal of the Asia Cup 2025. The victory sends Pakistan to the grand final for an epic clash against India.
Bangladesh’s Bowling Startles Pakistan
Bangladesh won the toss and chose to field first in Dubai. Their bowlers came in with aggression, causing early breakthroughs. Taskin Ahmed was outstanding with three wickets. Spinners Rishad Hossain and Mahedi Hasan picked two each, never letting Pakistan settle.
Pakistan’s Batting Struggles
Pakistan’s top order collapsed under pressure. By the 10th over, they were reeling at just 46 runs for four wickets. Saim Ayub fell cheaply, making it his fourth duck in the tournament. Only small cameos from Mohammad Haris (31 off 23), Mohammad Nawaz (25 off 15), and Shaheen Afridi (19 off 13) provided late hope. Faheem Ashraf contributed with a timely 14 not out in the final overs.
Pakistan posted a fighting total of 135 runs for eight wickets in 20 overs. Bangladesh’s sharp fielding, except for a few dropped catches, kept Pakistan’s runs in check.
Bangladesh’s Chase Falters
Chasing 136 for a berth in the final, Bangladesh stumbled early. Shaheen Afridi struck in the opening over, removing Parvez Hossain Emon for a duck. Soon, Haris Rauf and Nawaz joined the party, dismissing Saif Hassan and Mahedi Hasan. Bangladesh lost three wickets in the powerplay, scoring just 27.
Tension Mounts as Wickets Fall
Towhid Hridoy and Jaker Ali tried to revive the innings, but Pakistan’s bowlers, especially Shaheen and Rauf, kept the pressure high. Bangladesh’s required run-rate climbed steadily as wickets fell at regular intervals. The team failed to build a big partnership, making the chase harder as the overs ticked by.
Pakistan Books Spot in Final
With another collapse in the middle overs, Bangladesh never recovered. Pakistan’s bowlers wrapped up the innings efficiently, sealing an unforgettable win to reach the Asia Cup final.
Final Showdown: India vs Pakistan
This victory means Pakistan will play arch-rivals India in the Asia Cup 2025 final. The highly anticipated match is set to thrill fans across the subcontinent.
