New Delhi: India’s clinical seven-wicket victory over Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2025 Group A match left Pakistani fans seething outside Dubai International Stadium.
Chasing a modest 128, India, led by captain Suryakumar Yadav’s unbeaten 47 off 37 balls, romped home in 15.5 overs, with Abhishek Sharma’s fiery 31 off 13 and Tilak Varma’s steady 31 anchoring the chase.
The one-sided thrashing sparked outrage among Pakistan supporters, who slammed their team’s lacklustre batting and bowling.
Pakistan, opting to bat after winning the toss, crumbled under India’s bowling attack, managing only 127/9. Hardik Pandya struck on the first ball, dismissing Saim Ayub, while Jasprit Bumrah and spinners Kuldeep Yadav (3/18) and Axar Patel (2/18) tore through the line-up. Only Sahibzada Farhan (40) and Shaheen Afridi’s late unbeaten 33 off 16 offered resistance, but the batting unit’s collapse drew sharp criticism. “Our team played uselessly — neither batting nor bowling showed any fight,” fumed one fan. Another, expecting a thrilling contest, quipped, “It felt like we were planning where to go for dinner mid-match!”
Fans pointed to the absence of stalwarts like Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan as a key factor in Pakistan’s dismal show. India, in contrast, exuded confidence, with Abhishek’s aggressive start setting the tone before Suryakumar sealed the win with a six. The victory all but secures India’s Super 4 spot, while Pakistan faces an uphill task to regroup.
Social media buzzed with frustration, with some fans even pleading to “boycott the next match” against India, slated for a potential Super 4 clash on September 21. As India basks in their dominant form, Pakistan must rethink their strategy to salvage pride and keep their Asia Cup hopes alive. For now, the Men in Blue reign supreme, leaving their rivals’ supporters grappling with disappointment.
