Pakistan Nearly Won, But But Tilak Varma Capitalised On Abrar’s Costly Error

India has emerged as the Asian Champion by defeating Pakistan for the third time in the Asia Cup, marking a significant achievement ahead of the T20 World Cup. Prior to this victory, India also clinched the Champions Trophy with Ajay Rahi, defeating Pakistan in that tournament as well. A notable moment during the Champions Trophy was when Pakistan spinner Abrar Ahmed celebrated after taking Shubman Gill’s wicket, which stirred discussions. Similarly, in the , Abrar’s celebration after dismissing Sanju Samson disrupted the pressure that Pakistani bowlers had built on the Indian team, ultimately costing his team. Tilak Verma, the set batsman, remained on the pitch and guided India to victory despite Abrar’s actions.

Tilak Verma and Sanju Samson forged a partnership of over 50 runs. India’s fourth wicket fell at 12.2 overs with Samson’s dismissal, as the team chased the target. Abrar, in his usual style, signalled for Samson to return to the pavilion. However, Shivam Dubey and Tilak Verma retaliated, bringing India close to victory. Needing 147 runs to win, India was just 10 runs short when Dubey’s wicket fell.

Abrar managed one wicket for 29 runs in 4 overs, while Faheem Ashraf bowled impressively for Pakistan, taking 3 wickets for 29 runs in 4 overs, including the wickets of Abhishek Sharma, Shubman Gill, and Shivam Dubey. Shaheen Afridi and Abrar each secured one wicket. Despite effective use of the power-plays, Pakistan’s efforts ultimately faltered.

India won the toss and opted to bowl first. Pakistan’s openers capitalised on the opportunity, amassing a partnership of over 80 runs in 9.4 overs. However, Pakistan was unable to play the full 20 overs, losing all their wickets in 19.1 overs and setting India a target of 147 runs.

In the final match, Kuldeep Yadav dismantled Pakistan’s batting line-up, taking 4 wickets for 30 runs in 4 overs with an economy rate of 7.5. Bumrah, Varun, and Axar each took 2 wickets. Pakistan’s initial two wickets fell at 113 runs in 12.5 overs, and they managed only 33 runs with the remaining 8 wickets. Shahebzada Farhan (57), Fakhar Zaman (46), and Sam Ayub (14) were the only players to reach double digits.

Upon India’s turn to bat, Pakistan’s bowlers initially dominated, as India lost three wickets—Abhishek Sharma (5), Suryakumar Yadav (12), and Shubman Gill (12)—for just 20 runs. However, Tilak Verma (69*), Sanju Samson (24), and Shivam Dubey (33) accelerated the run rate, leading India to victory. Rinku Singh, who faced his only ball in the entire series, hit a four to secure the win, with India needing 1 run in 3 balls to triumph.