Colombo, Sri Lanka – Team India cemented their regional supremacy on Sunday, defeating arch-rivals Pakistan by five wickets in a gripping final at the R. Premadasa Stadium to claim the Asia Cup 2025 trophy. Young middle-order sensation Tilak Varma was the architect of the successful chase, scoring a magnificent, unbeaten half-century that steered India past a challenging target set by Pakistan.
This victory hands India their ninth Asia Cup title, further extending their record as the most successful team in the tournament’s history.
Pakistan’s Resilient Innings
Winning the toss and opting to bat first, Pakistan’s innings was built on a gritty foundation after an early wobble. Following a period of rebuilding, they posted a competitive total of 279/8 in their 50 overs.
The innings was anchored by a determined century from opener Fakhar Zaman, who scored 105 runs off 120 balls. He was ably supported by a crucial half-century from the captain, Babar Azam, who contributed 62 runs.
India’s bowling attack, however, remained disciplined. The spin duo of Kuldeep Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja excelled, stifling the middle overs. Kuldeep finished with figures of 3/45, while Jadeja took 2/40, ensuring Pakistan never fully broke free in the latter stages of their innings.
Tilak Varma’s Masterclass in the Chase
In reply, India got off to a quick start but faced a setback when they lost a couple of key wickets in quick succession, including that of their skipper. The pressure was mounting when the 23-year-old Tilak Varma walked to the crease.
Varma, who has quickly established himself as a versatile player, absorbed the pressure and played a composed yet aggressive knock. His unbeaten 78 runs off just 65 balls was a blend of elegant strokeplay and smart accumulation, dismantling the Pakistani pace and spin attack. He shared a match-winning partnership with Hardik Pandya (45 not out) that took the game away from Pakistan.
Varma finished the game with a powerful boundary, bringing up India’s target of 280 with 12 balls to spare. His mature performance earned him the Player of the Match award.
The victory marks a successful culmination of India’s campaign, reaffirming their status as a dominant force in Asian cricket and providing a major confidence boost ahead of the upcoming international season.