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Colombo, September 14, 2025 — Cricket’s fiercest rivalry delivered high drama yet again, but this time India walked away emphatic victors. With a spin attack that Pakistan simply couldn’t unravel, India crushed their arch-rivals by seven wickets in the Asia Cup group clash on Sunday.
Pakistan, asked to bat first, looked unsettled from the outset. India’s spin trio — Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, and Axar Patel — operated like clockwork, dismantling Pakistan’s middle order with relentless accuracy and variation. Babar Azam fought briefly to hold the innings together, but wickets kept tumbling at the other end. Pakistan folded for a modest total of 173 runs.
Chasing under lights, India’s top order looked assured. Skipper Rohit Sharma gave the innings early momentum with a fluent 43, while Shubman Gill’s elegant stroke play kept the scoreboard ticking. The highlight, however, was Suryakumar Yadav’s unbeaten 62, played with both control and flair, ensuring India crossed the line with seven wickets and nearly ten overs to spare.
Beyond the scorecard, the contest carried heavy undertones. This clash was billed as politically charged, with the Colombo stands packed with fans waving flags and chanting slogans. But on the field, India’s focus remained razor sharp, their bowlers showcasing patience and precision.
After the win, Suryakumar Yadav dedicated the victory to the victims of the recent Pahalgam tragedy, stating: “This win is for the brave souls and their families. Cricket is our passion, but humanity always comes first.”
The emphatic victory not only gave India crucial momentum in the Asia Cup but also sent a strong warning to other contenders. With the tournament heating up, India’s spin-heavy strategy looks like a game-changer.
[Newsroom staff written original, where key claims or facts are used, I’ve referenced the original sources (like Al Jazeera, The Times of India, Hindustan Times, Reuters, etc.) transparently.]
