The Asia Cup 2025 has presented a mix of highs and lows across its 12 match days. Afghanistan, riding high from their T20 World Cup 2024 semi-final run, faced an early exit in the group stage, while the encounter between India and Pakistan was filled with intense drama both on and off the field.
As a continental tournament known for previewing bigger events, the competition has certainly delivered excitement. After 12 matches, India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka have advanced to the Super 4 stage, where they will compete over the next six days. The team accumulating the most points will secure a spot in the final, scheduled for Sunday, September 28.
It’s important to note that none of the teams have had a flawless journey to the final. India and Sri Lanka are the only teams with perfect records, although both faced difficulties in matches against Oman and Hong Kong, respectively.
India, for instance, struggled against Oman but managed to pull through. Sri Lanka, on the other hand, stumbled significantly while chasing against Hong Kong in their match at the Dubai International Stadium on September 15. Meanwhile, Pakistan and Bangladesh had their own off days against India and Sri Lanka, yet both teams secured their berths in the top 4.
As we gear up for the Super 4, the outlook for the competing teams is as follows:
India:
vs UAE: Won by 9 wickets
vs Pakistan: Won by 7 wickets
vs Oman: Won by 21 runs
Captain Suryakumar Yadav led a heavily experimental side against Oman, even batting at No. 11 without making an appearance until the eighth wicket fell. With robust performances, India appears to be the favorite to clinch the trophy.
Pakistan:
vs Oman: Won by 93 runs
vs India: Lost by 7 wickets
vs UAE: Won by 41 runs
Pakistan faced off-field drama, threatening to withdraw from the tournament following a handshake incident with India but eventually returned to compete. The team must navigate its internal issues while also working on their performance to establish themselves as contenders.
Bangladesh:
vs Hong Kong: Won by 7 wickets
vs Sri Lanka: Lost by 6 wickets
vs Afghanistan: Won by 8 runs
Bangladesh secured an upset victory against Afghanistan, with a strong spin attack expected in their Super 4 matches in Dubai. Captain Litton Das will be critical to their success.
Sri Lanka:
vs Bangladesh: Won by 6 wickets
vs Hong Kong: Won by 4 wickets
vs Afghanistan: Won by 6 wickets
Sri Lanka has emerged as a dark horse under legendary coach Sanath Jayasuriya, boasting an aggressive batting lineup. While their execution needs refinement, they can be a formidable opponent, particularly in spin-friendly conditions.
Asia Cup 2025: Super 4 Schedule
September 20: Sri Lanka vs Bangladesh
September 21: India vs Pakistan
September 23: Pakistan vs Sri Lanka
September 24: India vs Bangladesh
September 25: Pakistan vs Bangladesh
September 26: India vs Sri Lanka
Favourites for the Final
While India is strongly poised to reach the final, the other spot remains uncertain. Pakistan, amidst their controversies, could surprise, or it could be Bangladesh or Sri Lanka who adapt better to the conditions.
Ravi Shastri highlighted the upcoming Bangladesh vs. Sri Lanka clash as one to watch. He noted, “Both teams are unpredictable, making this matchup particularly exciting as the pressure mounts in the Super 4.”
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