Forty-one years since the first Asia Cup, India and Pakistan will finally meet in the tournament’s final on Sunday in Dubai. India beat Pakistan twice on their way to the summit clash, but the cricket has often been overshadowed by political undertones—no handshakes, heated exchanges, and ICC sanctions over provocative remarks and gestures linked to earlier military tensions.
India, led by Suryakumar Yadav, enter unbeaten but face pressure to seal the title after their captain dismissed the rivalry as one-sided. Pakistan, considered underdogs with only two Asia Cup wins in history, see this as a chance to erase recent disappointments and end a long losing streak against India.
Spectator buzz is high, with the Asian Cricket Council expecting a sellout for the much-awaited clash. Both teams are expected to return at full strength, with Jasprit Bumrah and Shivam Dube set to feature for India, while Pakistan may stick with the XI that carried them through the Super Fours.
With political controversies now set aside, the stage is finally clear for cricket to take center stage.
During this week, India reached Asia Cup 2025 Final After Beating Bangladesh by 41 Runs
