The India vs Pakistan rivalry once again lit up the Asia Cup 2025 Super Four clash in Dubai, with India scripting a memorable six-wicket win on Sunday. The hero of the night was young opener Abhishek Sharma, who played a sensational knock of 74 off 39 balls, powering India to their highest successful T20I chase against Pakistan.
Batting first, Pakistan looked steady with Sahibzada Farhan anchoring the innings with 58 runs. Supported by Saim Ayub and a quick cameo from Faheem Ashraf, they managed a competitive 171/5. India’s bowlers, especially Shivam Dube, picked up crucial wickets to ensure Pakistan didn’t run away with the game.
Chasing 172, India started with fireworks. Sharma set the tone immediately by smashing Shaheen Afridi’s opening delivery for six. His partnership of 105 runs with Shubman Gill (47 off 28) left Pakistan on the defensive. Though there was a brief stumble with Gill, Sharma, and Suryakumar Yadav departing in quick succession, Tilak Varma (30*) and Hardik Pandya (7*) ensured a calm finish, sealing victory in just 18.5 overs.
But the cricket wasn’t the only headline. The match added another chapter to the ongoing handshake controversy. India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir instructed his players to greet only the umpires after the match. His now-viral comment, “Are umpire se toh mil le,” ignited a debate on sportsmanship and kept conversations buzzing almost as much as India’s thrilling win.
With this result, India not only maintained their unbeaten streak but also completed a double over Pakistan in this Asia Cup. Between Sharma’s brilliance, Gill’s aggression, and Gambhir’s remark, the contest once again proved why India vs Pakistan remains the fiercest rivalry in world cricket.