India vs Pakistan: Tilak Varma’s match-winning knock

In the Asia Cup 2025 final, Tilak Varma delivered a brilliant unbeaten 69* to guide India to a five-wicket victory over Pakistan. Coming in at 20/3, Varma anchored the chase with poise and aggression, striking three fours and four sixes. His innings steadied India’s top order and set the platform for the team’s eventual success.

Responding to Pakistan’s aggression

Pakistan displayed aggressive on-field behavior and provocative gestures early in the match. Tilak Varma later remarked, “They were speaking a lot since the start; they saw my reply with the bat, they are not visible on the ground.” His calm and composed innings effectively silenced Pakistan’s aggression and showcased his maturity under pressure.

Key partnerships and team performance

  • Partnership with Shivam Dube: Varma shared a crucial 60-run partnership with Dube (33 off 22 balls), helping India recover from early wickets.

  • Finishing the chase: Rinku Singh hit the winning runs, bringing India to 150/5 in 19.4 overs, chasing Pakistan’s 146 all out.

  • Bowling highlights: Kuldeep Yadav was the standout bowler, taking 4 wickets for 30 runs, triggering Pakistan’s collapse after a promising start.

    • Post-match events

    Following India’s win, the post-match ceremony was impacted by political tensions. Indian players declined to accept the trophy from Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, choosing to collect only individual awards. The ceremony was shortened, reflecting the sensitivities surrounding the bilateral cricket context.

    Conclusion

    Tilak Varma’s performance in the Asia Cup 2025 final not only secured India’s victory but also highlighted his temperament, ability to handle pressure, and role as a future star in Indian cricket. His innings, along with crucial contributions from Dube, Rinku Singh, and Kuldeep Yadav, ensured a historic win over Pakistan in a high-pressure clash.