For the first time in 41 years, India will meet Pakistan in the Asia Cup Final after Pakistan secured a thrilling 11-run victory against Bangladesh.
The much-anticipated clash will mark their third meeting in the ongoing T20I Asia Cup 2025.
India, who remain unbeaten under the leadership of Suryakumar Yadav in this tournament, had already qualified for the final, while Pakistan booked their spot despite a shaky batting performance.
Salman Ali Agha’s men struggled on a tacky surface, posting only 135 for eight in their 20 overs.
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Bangladesh looked poised to take control after a sloppy run-out from Pakistan and steady progress in the chase.
However, Pakistan’s bowlers – led by Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf with three wickets each – turned the tide. Youngster Saim Ayub also impressed, claiming two wickets for just 16 runs with two crucial catches.
The drama stretched until the final over when Bangladesh needed 18 runs from three balls. Tailender Rishad Hossain struck one six but failed to close the gap, handing Pakistan a narrow 11-run win.
This sets the stage for a historic final between the two arch-rivals. Cricket fans across Asia are now bracing for a showdown that has not been seen in the tournament’s finale since 1984.
India in finals: Asia Cup History
| Edition | Opponent | Result |
| 1984 | Sri Lanka | Via Round-robin format |
| 1988 | Sri Lanka | India won by 6 wickets |
| 1990-91 | Sri Lanka | India won by 7 wickets |
| 1995 | Sri Lanka | India won by 8 wickets |
| 1997 | Sri Lanka | Sri Lanka won by 8 wickets |
| 2004 | Sri Lanka | Sri Lanka won by 25 runs |
| 2008 | Sri Lanka | Sri Lanka won by 100 runs |
| 2010 | Sri Lanka | India won by 81 runs |
| 2016 | Bangladesh | India won by 8 wickets |
| 2018 | Bangladesh | India won by 3 wickets |
| 2023 | Sri Lanka | India won by 10 wickets |
