Cricket – Asia Cup Final: Pakistan seek redemption against unbeaten India

Dubai, – Pakistan will face arch-rivals India in the Asia Cup final on Sunday, aiming to avenge two earlier defeats in the tournament. India remain unbeaten so far, positioning themselves as strong contenders to retain the title.

Pakistan suffered heavy losses to India in both the group stage and the Super Four round. Led by captain Suryakumar Yadav, India have relied on opener Abhishek Sharma, the tournament’s leading run-scorer with 309 runs in six innings, and spinner Kuldeep Yadav, who tops the wicket chart with 13 scalps.

India’s bowling depth, supported by Jasprit Bumrah in the powerplay and all-round options in the middle overs, has kept opponents under pressure. Their recent narrow Super Over win against Sri Lanka, however, highlighted vulnerabilities under pressure.

Pakistan, boosted by a tense victory over Bangladesh in what was effectively a semi-final, remain determined not to lose to India for a third time in the same tournament. Captain Salman Agha said his side is “excited and confident,” adding: “We know what we need to do, and we are good enough to beat anyone.”

The final promises to be a high-stakes clash between two of cricket’s fiercest rivals.