India Favoured to Triumph as Asia Cup Final Against Pakistan Looms

India and Pakistan will clash in the Asia Cup final at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, marking their first final encounter in 41 years. India enter the match as overwhelming favourites, having won all six of their tournament games, including decisive victories over Pakistan by seven and six wickets.

India’s batting lineup has dominated throughout the tournament, led by the consistent Abhishek Sharma. Spinner Varun Chakravarthy has controlled the middle overs, adding depth and precision to the attack. Former captain Anil Kumble said, “India’s momentum is undeniable. Pakistan will need something extraordinary to disrupt their flow.”

Pakistan’s bowling has performed well, with Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf spearheading the pace attack. Spinners Abrar Ahmed and Saim Ayub have helped maintain control in the middle overs. But Pakistan’s batting has struggled. Only Sahibzada Farhan and Fakhar Zaman have delivered consistent performances. Former coach Intikhab Alam said, “Their middle order hasn’t fired consistently. Against India, that is a huge liability.”

Off-field distractions have also weighed on Pakistan, including code of conduct hearings and on-field incidents. India, by contrast, has maintained focus and composure. Analyst Harsha Bhogle said, “India’s mental strength is just as crucial a weapon as their batting or bowling.”

Captain Suryakumar Yadav, who has scored 71 runs in the tournament, and vice-captain Shubman Gill, with 115 runs, are expected to anchor India’s innings. Abhishek Sharma, with three consecutive half-centuries, adds crucial depth. Kumble added, “Form, confidence, and equilibrium all favour India.”

With history and national pride at stake, every run, catch, and over will matter. India looks poised for victory, while Pakistan must deliver an extraordinary performance across all departments to change the narrative.