Pakistan’s Path to the Asia Cup Final
In a thrilling encounter at the Dubai International Stadium on September 25, 2025, Pakistan triumphed over Bangladesh by just 11 runs, securing their spot in the Asia Cup final. This match showcased exceptional performances from pace bowlers Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf, both of whom played pivotal roles in Pakistan’s narrow victory.
Bowling Excellence: Shaheen and Haris Shine
Pakistan set a modest target of 136 runs after batting first, and it was evident from the outset that their bowling attack would need to be on point to defend this total. Shaheen Shah Afridi led the charge with a stellar bowling performance, claiming three wickets for just 17 runs in his four overs. His early breakthroughs—removing Parvez Hossain Emon for a golden duck and Towhid Hridoy soon after—were instrumental in putting Bangladesh on the back foot.
Haris Rauf, supporting Afridi brilliantly, took three wickets as well, finishing with figures of 3 for 33. The duo combined effectively, securing crucial wickets at regular intervals and restricting Bangladesh’s run flow to clinch the match. Their combined bowling figures of 6 wickets for 50 runs in 8 overs speak volumes about their impact on the game.
Pakistan’s Innings: A Struggle for Runs
When Pakistan batted first, their innings initially faltered as they lost two early wickets for just five runs. Fakhar Zaman and Salman Ali Agha both fell cheaply, leaving the team in dire straits at 27 for 2 by the end of the Powerplay. The middle order struggled to build partnerships, with only Mohammad Haris, who scored 31 runs, and Mohammad Nawaz, who contributed 25, providing any resistance against a spirited Bangladeshi bowling attack.
Shaheen’s cameo of 19 runs off 13 balls added some much-needed firepower before Pakistan managed to reach 135 runs, which was their second-lowest T20I total against Bangladesh. Taskin Ahmed was the standout bowler for Bangladesh, taking three wickets for 28 runs, effectively dismantling Pakistan’s batting lineup.
Bangladesh’s Chase: Fall of Wickets
In response, Bangladesh started poorly, crumbling under the pressure exerted by Pakistan’s pace attack. After losing early wickets, including that of their captain Jaker Ali, they found themselves reeling at 73 for 6. Although Shamim Hossain offered some resistance with a score of 30, the required run rate continued to climb, ultimately leading to their downfall.
As wickets fell at regular intervals, the Bangladeshi batsmen struggled to build significant partnerships, finishing their innings at 124 for 9. The match concluded with Haris Rauf defending 23 runs in the final over, sealing an 11-run victory for Pakistan.
Conclusion: A Final Showdown with India
This victory not only showcased Pakistan’s bowling prowess but also set up an exciting final against their arch-rivals India on Sunday. With Shaheen Shah Afridi named Player of the Match, fans are left eagerly anticipating what promises to be a thrilling showdown in the Asia Cup final. Will Pakistan carry this momentum forward, or will India reclaim dominance? Only time will tell!
