In the thrilling Asia Cup semi-final 2025, Pakistan sneak narrow win over Bangladesh to set up the much-awaited Pakistan vs India Asia Cup final in Dubai. The game kept fans on the edge of their seats, as Pakistan’s bowling performance turned the match into a historic encounter.

Table of Contents

• 1. Introduction
• 2. Pakistan vs Bangladesh Asia Cup 2025 Semi-Final Overview
• 3. Pakistan’s Struggle in the Play
• 4. Middle Overs Pressure – Rishad’s Spin Spell
• 5. Nawaz and Haris Lift Pakistan in Death Overs
• 6. Bangladesh’s Chase—Early Setback in PowerPlay
• 7. Spin Web Tightens Bangladesh’s Grip
• 8. Pakistan Pacers Seal the Deal in Death Overs
• 9. Key Moments That Defined the Match
• 10. Where Did Bangladesh Lose the Game?
• 11. Pakistan’s Clinical Bowling Performance
• 12. Players Who Made the Difference
• 13. Pakistan vs India – Final Showdown Awaits
• 14. What This Win Means for Pakistan
• 15. Conclusion
• 16. FAQs

Introduction

Pakistan sneak narrow win to set finals date with India — that’s the headline cricket fans were waiting for. At the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Pakistan defended their joint-lowest Asia Cup total (135/8) to edge Bangladesh by 11 runs in a nail-biting clash. It wasn’t just a victory, it was a show of grit, smart bowling, and handling pressure in crunch moments.

Pakistan vs Bangladesh Asia Cup 2025 Semi-Final Overview

The Asia Cup semi-final 2025 between Pakistan and Bangladesh was a nail-biting contest that showcased both teams’ determination. Pakistan, despite batting struggles, managed to defend their total and secure a place in the final. The clash highlighted the intensity of regional cricket rivalries.

Pakistan’s Struggle in the Play

Bangladesh struck early, dismissing Sahibzada Farhan and Saim Ayub in quick succession. Pakistan could only score 27/2 in the first six overs, their lowest powerplay in this tournament at Dubai. Fakhar Zaman tried to stabilize the innings, but Bangladesh’s pacers kept things tight.

Middle Overs Pressure – Rishad’s Spin Spell

Rishad Hossain was the standout bowler for Bangladesh. He removed Fakhar Zaman and Hussain Talat, creating panic in Pakistan’s camp. Skipper Salman Agha struggled, managing just 19 off 23 balls, before falling to Mustafizur Rahman. The middle overs belonged to Bangladesh, but they dropped three crucial catches that proved costly later.

Nawaz and Haris Lift Pakistan in Death Overs

Just when it seemed Pakistan would collapse under pressure, Mohammad Haris and Mohammad Nawaz changed gears. Haris played a fighting knock while Nawaz smashed a quickfire 25 off 15 balls, including two massive sixes. Faheem Ashraf added vital runs in the final over to push Pakistan to a defendable 135/8.

Bangladesh’s Chase—Early Setback in PowerPlay

Pakistan started brilliantly with the ball. Shaheen Afridi struck twice in the power play, while Haris Rauf got Saif Hassan, leaving Bangladesh at 36/3 after six overs. The aggressive intent backfired, as Pakistan’s bowlers found swing and control.

Spin Web Tightens Bangladesh’s Grip

The middle overs became a nightmare for Bangladesh. Pakistan’s spin trio of Mohammad Nawaz, Abrar Ahmed, and Saim Ayub slowed the scoring. Wickets fell at regular intervals as Bangladesh’s batters failed to build partnerships.

Pakistan Pacers Seal the Deal in Death Overs

Heading into the final overs, Bangladesh needed quick runs. Haris Rauf and Shaheen Afridi mixed pace and slower deliveries smartly. Despite a last-over six from Rishad, Pakistan held their nerve and restricted Bangladesh to 124/9 in 20 overs, sealing an 11-run win.

Key Moments That Defined the Match

– Pakistan’s dropped catches in middle overs gave them a lifeline.
– Nawaz’s late cameo shifted momentum.
– Shaheen Afridi’s double strike in the PowerPlay gave Pakistan early control.
– Rishad’s six in the final over gave Bangladesh hope but came too late.

Where Did Bangladesh Lose the Game?

Bangladesh’s downfall was a mix of dropped catches, poor fielding, and lack of patience during middle overs. Their aggressive approach in the PowerPlay cost them wickets, and they couldn’t recover under pressure.

Pakistan’s Clinical Bowling Performance

The bowlers deserve huge credit. Shaheen Afridi (3/17) and Haris Rauf (3/33) led from the front. Nawaz and Abrar kept things tight, ensuring Bangladesh never got momentum. This bowling unit has been Pakistan’s biggest weapon in the Asia Cup.

Players Who Made the Difference

• – Mohammad Nawaz – Quick 25 runs & tight bowling.
• – Shaheen Afridi – Early breakthroughs.
• – Haris Rauf – Crucial wickets in death overs.
• – Rishad Hossain – Bangladesh’s lone fighter with bat & ball.

Pakistan vs India – Final Showdown Awaits

This win means Pakistan will now face India in the Asia Cup 2025 final. With both teams already clashing twice in this tournament, the stage is set for a blockbuster. The cricketing world will be watching as these arch-rivals fight for continental glory.

What This Win Means for Pakistan

This victory wasn’t just about reaching the final. It proved Pakistan can defend low totals under pressure. It showed their bowling depth, fielding resilience, and ability to win big games even when batting falters.

Conclusion

The Asia Cup semi-final 2025 will be remembered for Pakistan’s grit and determination. The Pakistan bowling performance stood tall when it mattered most, proving to be the game-changer. Now, with momentum on their side, Pakistan enters the Pakistan vs India Asia Cup final with renewed confidence.

FAQs

Q1: Who was the top performer for Pakistan in this match?
Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf were exceptional with the ball, while Nawaz provided a crucial late cameo.

Q2: How many runs did Pakistan score in the semi-final?
Pakistan posted 135/8 in 20 overs.

Q3: What was Bangladesh’s final score?
Bangladesh managed 124/9, falling short by 11 runs.

Q4: Who will Pakistan face in the Asia Cup 2025 final?
Pakistan will face India in the much-anticipated final.

Q5: What was the turning point of the game?
Nawaz’s quickfire 25 and Shaheen’s early strikes shifted the match in Pakistan’s favor.