The Asia Cup 2025 Final delivered the ultimate cricketing drama as India and Pakistan faced off under the lights at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on 28 September 2025. The atmosphere was electric, packed stands, roaring crowds, and nerves on edge. Every ball felt like history in the making.
Pakistan batted first, starting solidly with a steady opening partnership. However, India’s disciplined bowling attack, especially the spinners, pulled things back at crucial moments. What looked like a 170-plus score at one stage was restricted to 146 all out in 19.1 overs, thanks mainly to Kuldeep Yadav’s pivotal breakthroughs in the middle overs.
In response, India’s chase got off to a shaky start, losing early wickets. But Tilak Varma held his composure, stitching together a calculated and mature innings of 69 off 53 balls*, steering India to 150/5 in 19.4 overs. His calm presence under pressure ensured India lifted their record-extending ninth Asia Cup title.
What made this victory even more iconic was that it marked the first-ever India vs. Pakistan final in the Asia Cup‘s history. This moment transcended sport and etched itself into cricketing legacy.
Final Match Summary (Date, Venue & Teams)
- Date: 28 September 2025
- Venue: Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai
- Teams: India vs Pakistan
- Result: India won by five wickets (PAK 146; IND 150/5)
- Player of the Match: Tilak Varma (69* off 53)
- Match Highlight: India’s spinners, led by Kuldeep Yadav, turned the game before Tilak sealed it in style
Toss, Playing XI & Match Conditions
India won the toss and opted to field first, anticipating spin assistance under lights. The strategy worked perfectly as the pitch gripped early before dew later eased batting conditions. A key pre-match update was the absence of Hardik Pandya, which forced India to tweak their balance; yet, the team held strong.
Award acquired by the player
The ACC’s prize purse and presentation-night awards were widely reported as follows:
| Award Category | Winner & Highlights |
| Player of the Match (Final) | Tilak Varma, India – Match-winning 69 in the final chase |
| Player of the Tournament | Abhishek Sharma, India – Most runs (314) & consistent performance. |
| Best Batsman of the Tournament | Abhishek Sharma, India – Highest run scorer & key innings |
| Best Bowler of the Tournament | Kuldeep Yadav, India – Top wicket taker (17) |
| Best Fielder | Nizakat Khan, Hong Kong – Most catches (4 in 3 matches |