September 26, 2025

The cricket world is buzzing as the Asia Cup 2025 final brings back the age-old India vs Pakistan rivalry! This Sunday in Dubai, these two cricket giants will battle for glory—marking their third face-off in just three weeks. What’s making this final extra spicy? A viral video of Pakistani fast bowler Haris Rauf shaking hands with a fan, who said, “India ko chhodna nahi, badla chahiye.” Translate that, and it means, “Don’t leave India, we want revenge.” Though said in a light moment, this phrase has set off fireworks on social media, especially among Indian fans, turning excitement into intense buzz. Pakistan’s road to the final was tough. They edged past Bangladesh on a tricky pitch, scoring just 135 runs. However, star bowlers Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf defended the total brilliantly to win by 11 runs. This thrilling victory sets the stage for the ultimate showdown against India. But wait, this final is not just about cricket. Past matches this tournament have seen missing handshakes after India-Pakistan games, stirring controversy. Rauf’s bold “6-0” gesture and a fighter jet sign aimed at Indian fans caused waves worldwide. Even teammate Sahibzada Farhan grabbed attention with his bat-gun imitation, blurring sport and political drama. Pakistan’s captain, Salman Ali Agha, confidently says his team is "good enough to beat anyone." India, on the other hand, plans to stay calm and let skill decide the winner. Sunday’s final isn’t just about a trophy—it’s a test of nerves, respect, and who can rise above the growing tensions. Looking back at this Asia Cup journey, India and Pakistan’s prior games were fireworks in themselves. In the Group A stage, India beat Pakistan by 7 wickets in Dubai, chasing 128 with cool spinners doing the damage. That match felt heavy with politics—it was their first clash since the May 2025 military conflict after the Pulwama terror attack. In the Super Four phase, they met again. India’s guns blazed, chasing down 172 with 6 wickets in hand and 7 balls to spare. Abhishek Sharma’s blazing 74 and Shubman Gill’s quick 47 opened the chase, while Sahibzada Farhan tried hard for Pakistan with a fighting 58. But tension soared again, and India skipped post-match handshakes once more. With all this drama, the Asia Cup Final 2025 promises more than just cricket — it’s a battle full of passion, pride, and maybe even a pinch of revenge. Who will win the ultimate trophy? Sunday will reveal it all in Dubai!

Read More at Economictimes →

Tags: Asia cup 2025, India vs pakistan, Haris rauf, Cricket rivalry, Asia cup final, Controversies,