In case of Pakistan win, Shahid Afridi and Muhammad Yousuf wanted it dedicated to the Pakistan Air Force, even messaging players to do so

Pakistan began their innings strongly against India, with Sahibzada Farhan and Fakhar Zaman putting together an impressive 84-run partnership off just 58 balls. However, when Pakistan seemed well-placed, India’s spinners made a decisive comeback. From a promising 84/1, Pakistan collapsed to 146 all out in 19.1 overs, with India’s spin trio causing most of the damage.

Tilak Varma showcased remarkable composure, scoring an unbeaten 69 to guide India to a thrilling five-wicket victory over Pakistan in the tense and controversial final of the Asia Cup 2025 in Dubai.

India were in early trouble, losing two wickets for just 10 runs in the third over, but Varma steadied the innings as wickets tumbled at the other end. India successfully chased the target of 147 in the politically charged showdown, after which the champions declined to accept the winner’s trophy from Asian Cricket Council (ACC) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi.


Yesterday, Shahid Afridi and Muhammad Yousuf stated: “If Pakistan wins the Asia Cup, we will dedicate the victory to the Pakistan Air Force.” Afridi added that he personally reached out to the players to encourage them to do so.