Final recap: India chase down 147 to win by five wickets
Dubai, 28 September 2025 — In a pulsating finish at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, India edged Pakistan by five wickets with two balls to spare to claim the ACC Men’s T20 Asia Cup title. India chased the 147-run target set by Pakistan, overcoming a disciplined start to seal the trophy in front of a packed crowd. The win marks another chapter in a rising India for Asian Twenty20 cricket, while Pakistan finish runners-up after a spirited campaign.
How the final unfolded
Pakistan posted a competitive total of 146, setting India a test of pace and precision. India’s chase began with careful discipline, before accelerating as the innings progressed. The match swung on small but crucial moments: tight bowling in the early overs kept India in check, while the Indian batting lineup rallied with steady partnerships to reach the target with two balls remaining. The victory highlighted India’s all-round strength in the format, combining bowling depth with a composed chase under pressure.
Key moments on the field
The final showcased a focused Indian diagram of attack and restraint. Openers and middle-order batsmen balanced aggression with smart running between the wickets, while the bowlers applied pressure at key junctures to restrict Pakistan and defend a modest total. Though the specifics of individual scores were shared across the ground, the overall narrative was clear: India played with intent and poise, converting a close target into a convincing championship win.
Impact and implications for the teams
For Pakistan, the result keeps them among the tournament’s finalists, underscoring their capabilities in a high-stakes format. The loss, while disappointing for Pakistan, does not erase a strong campaign that included some standout performances and competitive outings against regional rivals. India’s victory reinforces their status as a force in Asian T20 cricket, demonstrating depth in both batting and bowling units and the ability to close out tight matches on the big stage.
What this means for the Asia Cup landscape
The 2025 ACC Men’s T20 Asia Cup delivered edge-of-seat drama, with this final adding another chapter to the rivalry between India and Pakistan in a high-profile venue. As teams analyze the lessons from Dubai, the coming editions will look to build on the template of resilience, pace, and partnerships that defined this year’s climax. Fans can anticipate renewed competition and a continued push for regional dominance in the T20 format.
Looking ahead
With the title secured, India will take momentum into future global and regional events, while Pakistan regroup to translate potential into sustained success. The Asia Cup has once again proven to be a showcase for top-tier Twenty20 cricket in the region, offering a platform where key players emerge and preparations intensify for the next cycle of international fixtures.
