September
26
India's Road to the Final
From the first ball in the UAE, India looked like a team on a mission. Three wins out of three in Group A handed them six points and a massive net run rate of +3.547. That figure isn’t just a number – it showed how quickly they were wrapping up matches. The most eye‑catching game was the showdown against the United Arab Emirates, where India bowled them out for just 57 runs and chased the target in a blistering 4.3 overs.
Key contributors included Abhishek Sharma, who played several big knocks, and Kuldeep Yadav, whose variations kept the opposition guessing. Their performances gave the side a comfortable cushion going into the Super Four stage.
In the Super Four, India started with four points and a net run rate of +1.357, comfortably leading the pack. Every match they played reinforced the idea that they are the team to beat.
Who Will Join India?
Pakistan and Bangladesh emerged from the same group with two wins each. Pakistan’s two victories gave them four points, but a net run rate of +1.790 kept them ahead of Bangladesh, which also has two wins but a negative net run rate of -0.969. That gap could be the deciding factor when the final match rolls around.
Pakistan’s recent win over Oman was a statement. Mohammad Haris smashed 66 runs, guiding the team to 160/7. Then their bowlers restricted Oman to a paltry 67, widening the net run rate gap over Bangladesh. If they keep this form, they look set to claim the second final slot.
Bangladesh, on the other hand, will need a big win and a boost in net run rate to overtake Pakistan. Their next match is a must‑win, and they’ll have to do it in a way that not only adds points but also improves the run‑rate balance.
Meanwhile, Sri Lanka, who qualified from Group B with six points and a net run rate of +1.278, have slipped out of contention. Their early momentum couldn’t translate into enough points in the Super Four to stay in the hunt.
All eyes now turn to the clash that decides the runner‑up. Whether it’s Pakistan extending their advantage or Bangladesh pulling off a surprise, the final showdown on September 28, 2025, promises high drama.
Fans across Asia are already planning watch parties, and the buzz on social media is palpable. The tournament has delivered fierce competition, and the last match will likely determine the new champion of Asian cricket.
One thing is clear: Asia Cup 2025 has set the stage for an unforgettable finale, and the teams know the kind of cricket needed to lift the trophy.
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