India vs Pakistan, Asia Cup 2025 final: Key player battles that could decide the game

The Asia Cup 2025 final has arrived, with India and Pakistan set to battle for continental supremacy. India are unbeaten in six matches, while Pakistan lost to the Men in Blue in two games. Pakistan will look to win the decider. It is also the first time since 2017 that the two are facing each other in the final of any tournament.

Both teams gave players, who are capable of turning the game, but India appear the more complete unit, loaded with high-quality T20 talent. They have already beaten Pakistan by seven wickets in the group stage and six wickets in the Super Four. Still, Pakistan can upset India.

Here are three key player battles that could determine the outcome of this historic India vs Pakistan Asia Cup final.

Shaheen Shah Afridi vs Abhishek Sharma

Shaheen Afridi’s battle with Abhishek Sharma could set the tone of the final. The left-arm pacer, who swings the new ball and strikes early, will try to get rid of India’s in-form opener. If Shaheen succeeds, Pakistan will gain a major boost, and if not, Abhishek can shift the game quickly in India’s favour. Abhishek has dominated the tournament with the bat and has hit Afridi for 31 runs in 14 balls.

Haris Rauf vs Suryakumar Yadav

Haris Rauf has been a real challenge for India’s captain. While Suryakumar Yadav often dominates T20 bowlers, the pacer has dismissed him in all three meetings, giving away just 11 runs.

Heading into the final, Rauf will aim to continue the record, while Suryakumar will be determined to break the pattern and show his authority in this battle.

Sahibzada Farhan vs Jasprit Bumrah

During the Super Four clash, Bumrah recorded the most expensive spell with the new ball, and Farhan played a major role in the outcome. The opener disrupted his rhythm early.

The final offers Bumrah a chance to hit back and reassert control, while Farhan will look to keep up the pressure and strengthen his reputation.