Dubai: In a highly anticipated Asia Cup Super Four match in Dubai, India outshone Pakistan by six wickets, completing a tense chase of 171 with seven balls to spare. While Pakistan’s early flourish hinted at a contest, India’s top order led by Abhishek Sharma put the game beyond reach with a commanding performance.
Pakistan, choosing to bat first, got off to a decent start. Sahibzada Farhan anchored their innings with a well-compiled 58 off 45, boosting hopes of reaching a strong total. But the promising momentum slowly ebbed away under India’s disciplined bowling and fielding, particularly in the back half of the innings.
India’s reply began with a thunderous signal: Abhishek Sharma smashed a six off the first ball of the chase, setting the tone for the match. He then stitched together a 105-run opening stand with Shubman Gill Gill contributing 47 off just 28 balls dominating the powerplay and squeezing Pakistan’s bowlers when the pressure rose.
Sharma’s blistering knock of 74 off 39 was laced with audacious strokes and a clear refusal to let Pakistan settle into control. Tilak Varma’s composed 30* helped close out the chase, ensuring that India didn’t need to depend on the tail or clutch overs.
Off the field, the match carried its own tensions. Standard protocol between the arch-rivals like handshakes was deliberately omitted, reflecting ongoing political undertones. Verbal exchanges between players, especially involving Abhishek Sharma, added spice to what was already a contest of high stakes.
This win not only asserts India’s batting depth and composure under pressure, but also cements Sharma’s rising stature as a match-winner in marquee fixtures. As Pakistan reflects on missed opportunities in the middle overs, India can look ahead with confidence.
