Pakistan has made it to the Asia Cup 2025 final after a thrilling low-scoring win over Bangladesh. Pakistan's pace attack stepped up to the plate and defended a small total of just 135, winning dramatically and sending the team to the final.
This tough win means that the first-ever India vs. Pakistan final in Asia Cup history will take place on Sunday, September 28, 2025. India had already beaten Pakistan twice, once in the group stage and once in the Super Four. But this strong win gives Pakistan some momentum going into the final.
Salman Ali Agha Backs Pakistan to Beat India After Thrilling Win Over Bangladesh
Speaking at the post-match presentation, an elated Salman Ali Agha shared his thoughts on the team's performance and the road ahead:
"If you win these kinds of games, then we must be a special team. Everyone played really well. There is some room for improvement in batting, but we will work on that."
Agha also expressed full confidence in his team’s ability to defeat India in the final:
"Very excited. We know what we need to do, and we are a good enough team to beat anyone. We will come on Sunday and try to beat them."
Shaheen Afridi Delivers Under Pressure with Match-Winning Spell
A key factor in Pakistan’s victory was the brilliant performance by Shaheen Afridi, who returned impressive figures of 3/18 under pressure. Agha praised the left-arm pacer for stepping up when it mattered most:
"Shaheen is a special player. He does what the team needs from him. Very happy for him. We were 15 runs short, but the way we bowled up front, we created pressure. More often than not, you’ll win games if you bowl like this."
Afridi also shared insights into his strategy during the power play:
"Early on, as a team, we need breakthroughs – and I go for that. In the end, you need early wickets, and we planned that. Three overs in the powerplay – that made the difference.."
He also spoke about his surprising yet effective role with the bat, hitting crucial sixes that shifted the momentum:
"After early wickets, the team decided to let me go and take on the bowlers. Those sixes turned the momentum in our favor."
Pakistan will take on India in the first-ever Indo-Pak final of the Asia Cup 2025. India has already defeated them twice once in the group stage and again in the Super Fours. But with Pakistan coming off a big win ahead of the final, this title clash promises to be a power-packed contest.
