By Himadullah Sohoo 
Pakistan post fighting total
For the first half of their innings, Pakistan hinted at producing a rare competitive total against India in recent years. Their eventual 171/5 was their highest-ever score batting first against India in T20Is, built around Sahibzada Farhan’s composed 58 off 45.
Fakhar Zaman provided a quick cameo before falling for 15, while Saim Ayub added 21. The middle order stuttered against India’s spinners, but a late flourish came from Faheem Ashraf’s 20 off 8 balls, lifting Pakistan past 170.
Despite the boost, Pakistan knew defending against India’s powerful batting would need wickets up front — something they failed to achieve.
Abhishek and Gill crush the chase
India’s reply began with fireworks. Abhishek Sharma launched the very first ball for six, setting the tone for a chase that never looked under threat. Together with Shubman Gill (47 off 28), he added 105 runs in just 59 balls, dismantling Pakistan’s attack with clean hitting.
Gill’s dismissal in the 10th over didn’t slow the tempo. Abhishek carried on, striking six fours and five sixes in his breathtaking 74 off 39 balls. By the time he was removed, India required only 49 runs off 46 balls — a task easily managed by Tilak Varma and Hardik Pandya.
Pakistan bowlers falter under pressure
Haris Rauf was the standout with 2/26, dismissing Suryakumar Yadav and Sanju Samson. But Shaheen Afridi and Abrar Ahmed went the distance, conceding crucial boundaries at key stages.
Pakistan’s spinners lacked the control to choke runs, while India’s batting depth meant they were never stretched. The result highlighted the gulf in confidence between the two sides in this rivalry.
Statement win for India
With this six-wicket victory, India not only reinforced their dominance over Pakistan in recent years but also stamped their authority in the Asia Cup 2025 Super Fours. Abhishek Sharma’s Player of the Match performance added fresh spark to India’s top order, while Pakistan were left searching for answers despite Farhan’s half-century.
As the Super Four stage tightens, India’s balance between aggressive batting and varied bowling makes them early favorites for the title.
Brief Scores
Pakistan: 171/5 in 20 overs (Sahibzada Farhan 58, Faheem Ashraf 20*; Shivam Dube 2/33, Kuldeep Yadav 1/31)
India: 174/4 in 18.5 overs (Abhishek Sharma 74, Shubman Gill 47; Haris Rauf 2/26, Abrar Ahmed 1/42)
Result: India won by 6 wickets (with 7 balls remaining)
Player of the Match: Abhishek Sharma (74 off 39)