Gulf News recaps India vs Pakistan Asia Cup clash with key highlights from Dubai
India reinforced their Asia Cup favourite status with a six-wicket win over Pakistan in Dubai. Abhishek Sharma’s 74 off 39 balls and Shubman Gill’s 47 powered a 105-run opening stand, while Tilak Varma (26*) and Hardik Pandya (7*) completed the chase in 18.5 overs. Pakistan posted 171, led by Sahibzada Farhan (58) and late contributions from Mohammad Nawaz (21) and Faheem Ashraf (20). Shivam Dube (2), Hardik Pandya (1), and Kuldeep Yadav (1) claimed key wickets. Gulf News unfolds India vs Pakistan with key highlights, live scores, and fan reactions from Dubai’s Super Four clash, with match highlights as they happened.
For fans in the UAE, catching the live action is easier than ever.
Online Streaming: You can watch the match live on the STARZPLAY streaming platform, which provides access to the CricLife MAX channel.
Cable and Satellite: The match will also be broadcast on the CricLife MAX channel, available through providers like eLife TV and Switch TV.
If you’re looking for an immersive and energetic experience, Dubai offers a range of venues where cricket fans can gather to watch the India vs Pakistan clash. These spots provide the perfect atmosphere to cheer alongside fellow supporters and soak in the excitement of one of cricket’s fiercest rivalries.
Gulf News has covered the top locations across the city, highlighting places that combine big screens, lively crowds, and great amenities. From sports bars to dedicated fan zones, these venues ensure you won’t miss a single moment of the action while enjoying food, drinks, and camaraderie with other cricket enthusiasts.
Whether you prefer a buzzing indoor environment or an open-air setting with a lively crowd, Dubai has something for every fan. By choosing one of these recommended venues, you can experience the intensity of the Super Four match in a way that goes beyond simply watching it at home. Read more
India (probable): Suryakumar Yadav (c), Shubman Gill, Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Jitesh Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Varun Chakaravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav, Sanju Samson, Harshit Rana, Rinku Singh.
Pakistan (probable): Salman Agha (c), Abrar Ahmed, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Hasan Nawaz, Hussain Talat, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Haris (wk), Mohammad Nawaz, Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Salman Mirza, Shaheen Afridi, Sufiyan Muqeem, Mohammad Wasim Jr.
India have enjoyed an impressive run in the tournament so far. They opened their campaign with a comfortable nine-wicket victory over hosts UAE in a low-scoring encounter. This was followed by a dominant seven-wicket win against Pakistan in a high-stakes clash. India concluded the group stage with a 21-run win over Oman in Abu Dhabi, finishing at the top of Group A.
Pakistan, meanwhile, began their tournament on a strong note with a commanding 93-run win over Oman. However, they stumbled in their second match, losing to India. Their final group game against hosts UAE was mired in controversy, with tensions rising over a disputed handshake and issues involving match referee Andy Pycroft — leading to threats of withdrawal from the Asia Cup. The game eventually began an hour late, and Pakistan secured a 41-run victory, finishing second in the group.
Spin is expected to play a major role at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, with another dry, slow surface likely on offer. The match is set to be played on the same central pitch used in the previous India-Pakistan clash. The conditions here have remained fairly consistent across both innings, where dew influenced the game. The toss hasn’t had a major impact at this venue. Temperatures around the start of play are forecast to hover near 35°C, though evenings have started cooling off compared to last week.
If Axar Patel is fit, India may opt for a three-spinner setup. After rotating their squad against Oman — giving chances to all batters and part-time bowlers — India are expected to return to full strength, with Jasprit Bumrah and Varun Chakaravarthy likely to slot back in.
For Pakistan, Haris Rauf and Khushdil Shah returned to the XI against the UAE, replacing Sufiyan Muqeem and Faheem Ashraf — a balance that is likely to be retained.
Monty Panesar, Former England spinner
"The hype around the India vs Pakistan game is a little less this time. Now, one of the reasons is the recent handshake row. It has affected the buzz. Pakistan and India should pay more attention to cricket and less to other things. India's status is very strong right now. Pakistan is such a team that when it plays against India, they can do 20-30 per cent better, so Pakistan will have to play very well, they should play in the same way as before. But, in my opinion, India will win this match."
Venkatesh Prasad, Former India fast bowler
"There is no need to talk about India and Pakistan now because there is a lot of difference between the two teams. India is always on top. India will definitely win."
Former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria
"Pakistan cricket is in a pathetic state right now. This always happens: when there is an issue (handshake snub), instead of taking responsibility, they keep blaming others. "The selectors were entrusted with the responsibility of 22 crore people. What team did you select? What coaching assignments did you give? What was your game plan, strategy, and approach? Pakistan is not playing well as expected, while India is a top-tier team. Judging by their performance in the last game, it is clear that Pakistan's team is not better than the Indian team."
Suryakumar Yadav, Indian captain
“It [the match] will be a good contest between the ball and the bat. Close your room, switch off your phone and sleep [on shutting the outside noise]. It’s easy to say, but sometimes it is difficult.”
Salman Agha, Pakistan captain
“We are ready, we are ready for any challenge. We just want to play good cricket. If we play good cricket, like we have played in the last few months, I think we’ll be good against any side.. We got the job done [on batting performance] but we still need to improve our batting in the middle order. That’s been a concern and something we need to work on.”
Dubai Police have issued a safety advisory for fans attending the Asia Cup in Dubai, urging everyone to follow instructions from police and private security teams to ensure a safe and smooth experience. The alert, sent on Sunday, reminded spectators to check their tickets for validity and enter through the gates assigned by event organisers. Authorities thanked fans for their cooperation in keeping the championship secure and enjoyable.
Earlier, Dubai’s Events Security Committee stressed the importance of respecting rules, arriving early, and maintaining sportsmanship throughout the tournament. Strict penalties apply for violations: pitch invasions, carrying banned items, or abusive behaviour, with fines of Dh5,000–Dh30,000 and up to three months in prison.
Key instructions for fans:
Arrive at least three hours before the match starts
One entry per valid ticket
Follow parking regulations
Avoid banned items such as fireworks, sharp objects, large cameras, umbrellas, pets, scooters, glass items, selfie sticks, and remote-controlled devices
Specialised police units have been deployed across all Asia Cup fixtures. Authorities have warned that any attempts to disrupt the event will face strict legal action.
Team Pakistan has arrived at Dubai International Cricket Stadium ahead of their highly anticipated Super Four match against India in the Asia Cup 2025. Fans and officials are gearing up for a thrilling contest as both sides prepare for one of the tournament’s biggest showdowns.
The message from cricket fans is loud and clear — they want a nail-biter, not a one-sided affair. While most are backing India to win again, they’re hoping for a high-octane thriller when the two teams face off for in the Asia Cup Super Four stage.
The last time these two teams met, India cruised to a seven-wicket victory. But fans believe this time will be different. Read more
The toss is just a few minutes away, and a growing buzz fills the air. Dubai International Cricket Stadium is steadily filling up, with fans streaming in, waving flags, and taking their seats.
Those already settled are swaying and dancing to the upbeat music echoing across the ground, creating a festive atmosphere.
Both teams are warming up on the field, going through their drills with focus and intensity. Cheers erupt from the stands every time a popular player appears near the boundary or takes a spectacular catch in practice. The excitement is building, and anticipation hangs thick in the air as we count down to what promises to be an electrifying clash between India and Pakistan.
India chose to field after winning the toss.
Given the nature of the pitch at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, it was expected that any captain who wins the toss will opt to field first. As expected the teams didn't have the mandatory handshakes.
Suryakumar said during the training yesterday there was a lot of dew and that's the reason he chose to bowl first. He said that they've been playing like all matches are knockouts so nothing changes. Jasprit Bumrah and Varun Chakravarthy come back.
Salman Agha says Pakistan would have liked to bowl as well. He adds that this game is a new challenge and they want to play good cricket.
India had a chance to take an early breakthrough. But Abhishek Sharma spilled the chance at third man. Hardik Pandya is clearly not impressed. Pakistan 4-0 in 0.4 overs.
Positive start from Pakistan openers. Fakhar Zaman carries his good form to score two successive boundaries off Bumrah. First one a flick behind square and the second he steps out to send it past the mid-off fielder. Pakistan reach 17-0 in 2 overs.
Fakhar Zaman looking confident cutting one to a point boundary, but Pandya quickly responded the very next ball getting an edge out of the left-hander. The catch by wicket-keeper Sanju Samson was reviewed and cleared. Pakistan 21-1 in 2.3 overs.
Saim Ayub begins on a positive note with a confident pull to a boundary off his first ball off Pandya. Pakistan reach 26-1 in 3 overs
Two more boundaries coming off Bumrah's over. Shaibzada Farhan accounts for both. He looks confident and is not shying away from punishing those loose deliveries. Pakistan reach 36-1 in 4 overs
Saim Ayub survives. Gets lucky as Kuldeep drops an easy catch at short fine leg. Pakistan reach 42-1 in 5 overs.
The two catch drops is proving to be crucial for India as Pakistan look to be sailing ahead smoothly. Shaibzada Farhan reaches 29 off just 21 balls while Saim Ayub is batting on 9 as Pakistan reach 55-1 in 6 overs.
Pakistan chug on as they reach 60-1 in 7 overs maintaining a run rate of over 8. The pair of Sahibzada Farhan and Saim Ayub have added 39 runs for the third wicket.Photo: Virendra Saklani/Gulf News
Pakistan get their first six of the match, courtesy Shaibzada Farhan. It looked like Abhishek at the long-on boundary was all set to catch it but he fumbles and fails to latch on to a difficult catch. Pakistan reach 70-1 in 8 overs.
Shaibzada Farhan scores his half century in style smashing a six off Axar Patel. His innings came off 34 balls including five boundaries and three sixes. Pakistan 91-1 in 10 overs.
Pakistan lost their second wicket after Abhishek Sharma took a diving catch at the deep to send Saim Ayub back to the pavilion. Abhishek makes it up for the two earlier drop catches. Pakistan are 93-2 in 10.3 overs.
Pakistan are in total control as they reach 103-2 in 12 overs. Pakistan can target a big total from here if they continue to carry on the current form. Shaibzada Farhan is batting on 56.
With the boundaries drying up, Pakistan felt the pressure. Hussain Talat took the aerial route to go for a big one but couldn't clear the short-third fielder. Pakistan's run flow had slowed down drastically and its been over three overs since Pakistan last got a boundary. Pakistan are 110-3 in 13.2 overs
Pakistan is losing their momentum under pressure as another wicket falls. This time it's the big wicket of Sahibzada Farhan who offers a simple high catch to skipper Suryakumar Yadav off Shivam Dube bowling. Pakistan 116-4 in 14.1 overs
Pakistan's run rate has dropped below eight now. Indian bowlers have kept it tight and the fielding looks sharp. Pakistan need some big hitting if they are looking for a competitive total. Pakistan are 119/4 in 15 overs
Skipper Agha finally ended the boundary drought smashing a huge six off Kuldeep. But despite that Pakistan's run rate hasn't been very impressive. With another three overs left, Pakistan desperately need some big hitting. Pakistan 129/4 in 17 overs
Mohammad Nawaz smashed a boundary and a six as Pakistan reached 146 for 4 in 18 overs. With 12 balls to go Pakistan will target a finish at around 170.
Mohammad Nawaz had himself to blame after he gets run out following a carless approach. He fails to get his bat at the crease in time.
Pakistan set a target of 172 for India in the Asia Cup Super Fours clash at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Sunday.
Despite a strong start, with opener Sahibzada Farhan scoring a solid 58 and Saim Ayub contributing 21 with some fine shots, Pakistan lost momentum midway through the innings.
However, a late surge from skipper Salman Agha (17) and Mohammad Nawaz (21) added crucial runs in the final overs, pushing Pakistan to a competitive total.
For India, Shivam Dube claimed two wickets while Hardik Pandya, Kuldeep Yadav accounted for a wicket each.
Abhishek Sharma and Shubman Gill take strike as India chase a target of 172 in 120 balls. For Pakistan Shaheen Afridi opens the bowling.
Abhishek Sharma starts of with a six of Shaheen Afridi. Afridi bowls a short one but Abhishek is ready for it as he pulls it over fine. Shaheen Afridi quickly adjusts himself to leak just three runs from the next five deliveries. India are 9/0 in 1 over.
Shubman Gill races to 21 while Abhishek Sharma is batting on 10 as India reach to 31 for no loss in just 3 overs. Indian openers are looking at ease scoring boundaries at regular intervals.
This time it's Abhishek's turn to take the aggressive route. He fires a boundary and a six off Abrar Ahmed's bowling as India race to a fine 43 for 0 in 4 overs.
There is no stopping the Indian openers as India quickly reach 50-0 in just 4.4 overs. India now need 122 runs from 92 balls. Pakistan will have to come up something special to stem the run flow.
Openers Abhishek Sharma and Shubman Gill looked hardly threatened as they eased India to 69 for no loss in 6 overs. Gill is batting on 35 from 18 balls while Sharma is on 33 from 18 deliveries.
Nothing's going right for Pakistan at the moment. Abhishek Sharma's catch was dropped on the boundary rope by Fakhar Zaman. Failed to judge it completely. India 85-0 in 7 overs.
A superb half century from Abhishek Sharma. His 52 comes off just 24 deliveries including four boundaries and four sixes. The opener is looking extremely confident and is executing his shots to perfection. India reach 94/0 in 7.4 oversPhoto: Virendra Saklani/Gulf News
The openers continued their dominance as India reached 100 for no loss in 8.3 overs. Shubman Gill is batting on 43 while Abhishek Sharma on 56.
Shubman Gill looked uneasy limping for a run and the break soon after seems to have disrupted his concentration as he is bowled by Faheem Ashraf. The opener was just three runs shy of his half century. But nevertheless his entertaining 28-ball innings consisted of eight boundaries. India are 105-1 in 10 overs
Indian skipper Suryakumar Yadav departed without disturbing the scorecard as his leading edge is taken comfortably bu Abrar Ahmed in the deep. India are 106-2 in 10.3 overs.
Abhishek Sharma is in a zone of his own as he looks all set to comfortably take Team India past the target. The left-handed opener reached 67 from 37 deliveries as India reached 117 for 2 in 12 overs. India now need just 55 off 48 balls.
Abhishek Sharma's superb run finally ended after he offered a catch to Haris Rauf in the deep. Sharma scored a brilliant 74 off just 39 balls peppered with six boundaries and five sixes.
Sanju Samson takes over the role from Abhishek Sharma. A cover drive in his fourth ball of the innings spoke volumes of his talent. None of the Pakistan players moved an inch as the ball raced through to the boundary. India 132-3 in 14 overs.
Everything seems to be perfectly alright for India as they need just 32 from 30 balls. Tilak Varma batting on 8, while Sanju Samson is on 9.
Sanju Samson is bowled by Haris Rauf for just 13. Pakistan know the wicket came a little too late for them as India now need 24 off 20 balls. Tilak Varma is now joined by Hardik Pandya
Tilak Varma was batting on 20 while Hardik Pandya on 6 as India now need just 9 runs from 12 balls. Another easy win for India puts them in good stead for the title run.'
India proved yet again why they are the favourite side to win the Asia Cup title as they comfortably defeated Pakistan by six wickets in the Super Four match at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
Abhishek Sharma was the star batter for India as he fired a brilliant 74 off just 39 balls. His innings was studded with six boundaries and five sixes.
He was well accompanied by Shubman Gill (47, 28b, 8x4) as the duo added a brilliant 105 runs for the opening wicket.
The stand turned crucial as Sanju Samson (13), Tilak Varma (26 not out) and Hardik Pandya (7 not out) eased India past the target in 18.5 overs.
Earlier, Pakistan set a target of 172 after openers Sahibzada Farhan provided a strong start with a solid 58. Saim Ayub supported him well contributing 21. But Pakistan lost the momentum midway through the innings. before a late surge from skipper Salman Agha (17), Mohammad Nawaz (21) and Faheem Ashraf (20) added crucial runs in the final overs, pushing Pakistan to a competitive total.
For India, Shivam Dube claimed two wickets while Hardik Pandya, Kuldeep Yadav accounted for a wicket each
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