Mumbai: In a high-stakes showdown that lived up to the hype, India emerged victorious in the Asia Cup 2025 final against arch-rivals Pakistan, clinching their ninth title in a nail-biting encounter.
The match, marking the first-ever India-Pakistan final in the tournament’s history, saw young batsman Tilak Varma emerge as the unlikely hero, steering his team from the brink of collapse to a memorable triumph.
Chasing a modest target of 147 set by Pakistan, India’s innings got off to a rocky start, losing two wickets for just 10 runs and a third by the 20-run mark. Enter Tilak Varma, who anchored the innings with composure beyond his years. Partnering first with Sanju Samson, who contributed a vital 24 off 21 balls, including two boundaries and a six, Tilak forged a crucial 57-run stand. Samson’s knock provided the much-needed stability amid the early chaos.
As wickets tumbled, Tilak found an able ally in Shivam Dube, whose aggressive 33 off 22 deliveries – laced with two fours and two sixes at a strike rate of 150 – injected momentum. Tilak, however, was the standout performer, smashing an unbeaten 69 off 53 balls. His innings featured three fours and four towering sixes, clocked at a strike rate of 130.18. Reaching his maiden fifty of the tournament in 41 balls, this player surpassed his previous best of 49 not out against Sri Lanka.
Tilak’s resilient knock silenced the Pakistani bowlers and ensured India crossed the finish line comfortably. For Pakistan, it was a case of bad luck, as their bowlers failed to capitalise on early breakthroughs.
This victory underlines India’s dominance in Asian cricket, adding another chapter to the storied rivalry.