Mumbai: In a riveting finale that captivated cricket fans worldwide, Team India clinched their record ninth Asia Cup title by defeating Pakistan by five wickets, completing a humiliating hat-trick of losses for the rivals.
The high-voltage clash saw Kuldeep Yadav’s devastating four-wicket haul dismantle Pakistan’s batting, paving the way for Tilak Varma’s unbeaten masterclass to steer India home in the final over.
Opting to bat first, Pakistan started strongly with an 84-run opening stand between Sahibzada Farhan (57) and Fakhar Zaman (46). But once Farhan departed, the innings crumbled dramatically, losing all 10 wickets for just 62 more runs to finish at 146. Kuldeep’s fiery spell triggered the collapse, leaving Pakistan’s middle order in tatters.
India’s chase began disastrously, slumping to 20/3 with openers Abhishek Sharma (5) and Shubman Gill (12) failing, followed by captain Suryakumar Yadav’s dismal 1. Tournament-toppers Abhishek and Gill couldn’t replicate their form, while Suryakumar managed a paltry 72 runs across the event.
Enter Tilak Varma, the 23-year-old sensation, who arrived at 10/2 and anchored with maturity. His unbeaten 69 off 53 balls – blending patience with power – featured a crucial 57-run partnership with Sanju Samson (24 off 21). Tilak’s knock revived hopes, guiding India to victory and marking his tournament-best effort.
This triumph cements India’s supremacy, outpacing Sri Lanka’s six titles. For Pakistan, the group stage (7-wicket loss), Super Four (6-wicket defeat), and now final drubbing expose deep vulnerabilities in the storied rivalry.
As celebrations erupt nationwide, Tilak emerges as the undisputed hero of Asia’s grandest stage.