The wait is finally over. Cricket’s fiercest rivalry will headline the Asia Cup in a way it never has before: Pakistan and India are set to face off in the final of the continental showpiece for the very first time in the tournament’s history.
Pakistan sealed their place in Sunday’s summit clash at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium with an 11-run win over Bangladesh in the Super Four, setting up a blockbuster finale against their neighbours.
A rivalry with history, but never a final
The Asia Cup, first held in 1984 in the UAE, has produced 16 finals over four decades. India and Pakistan have both lifted the trophy on multiple occasions, yet somehow their paths never crossed in the title match. That will change this weekend.
India, the tournament’s most decorated side with eight titles, have made the final on 11 occasions. Pakistan have reached five finals, winning two — in 2000 and 2012. But Sunday’s meeting is unprecedented, and that historic significance will only heighten the anticipation.
India’s road to the final
Led by Suryakumar Yadav, India have been the standout side of the 2025 edition. They cruised through the group stage and carried their form into the Super Fours, where they beat both Pakistan and Bangladesh convincingly. Unbeaten so far, they’ll enter the final not just with form but also with the psychological edge of already having defeated Pakistan in this tournament.
Pakistan’s fightback
For Pakistan, the campaign has been a test of resilience. After going down to India by six wickets in their Super Four opener, Salman Agha’s men bounced back strongly. Wins against Sri Lanka and Bangladesh showcased their grit, with Shaheen Afridi’s early breakthroughs and Hussain Talat’s calm batting proving decisive. That character under pressure will give them belief heading into the final.
What makes this final special
India vs Pakistan is never just a cricket match. The atmosphere, the pressure, the narratives — everything feels amplified. But this time, the stakes are higher than ever. A trophy is on the line, history is being made, and one team will walk away not just as Asia’s best, but also with bragging rights in the sport’s fiercest rivalry.
Key players to watch
- India: Suryakumar Yadav’s leadership, Abhishek Sharma’s power-hitting, and Shaubman Gill’s consistency have been standout features.
- Pakistan: Shaheen Afridi’s new-ball bursts, Mohammad Haris’s fearless batting, and the all-round utility of Mohammad Nawaz could tilt the balance.
The stage is set
Come Sunday night, the Dubai International Cricket Stadium will be buzzing with noise, colour, and tension. Millions across the world will be glued to their screens, watching Pakistan and India contest a historic Asia Cup final. For players and fans alike, it promises to be a night to remember.
