Asia Cup 2025: Sharma's Blitz Powers India to Strong Position in Inconsequential Clash Against Sri Lanka.
DUBAI, September 26, 2025 – In a Super Four match with no bearing on the tournament final, India's batting lineup used the opportunity for valuable time in the middle, posting a competitive 137 for 3 in 13.4 overs against Sri Lanka before rain interrupted play at the Dubai International Stadium. The innings was anchored by another explosive half-century from the in-form Abhishek Sharma.
With the marquee India-Pakistan final already set for Sunday, the clash acted as a final tune-up for the defending champions. Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav, after losing the toss, underlined his team's intent to maintain winning habits and carry momentum into the final.
Abhishek Sharma Lays the Foundation
India’s innings began with characteristic aggression from Abhishek Sharma. Despite the early dismissal of Shubman Gill (7) to Maheesh Theekshana, Sharma refused to curb his attacking instincts. He took on the Sri Lankan pace unit, particularly punishing Nuwan Thushara, and raised his third consecutive fifty of the tournament in just the sixth over.
His 61-run blitz showcased clean striking and raw power, further cementing his reputation as one of the most destructive openers in world cricket. The partnership with captain Yadav looked promising before misfortune struck—Yadav (8) was trapped leg-before by Wanindu Hasaranga, with DRS confirming the decision.
Middle Order Finds its Footing
The dismissal of Sharma, caught in the deep off Charith Asalanka, brought Tilak Varma (29)* and Sanju Samson (24)* together. Both, under pressure for not producing substantial scores earlier in the tournament, grabbed the opportunity.
They rotated strike efficiently, punished loose balls, and stitched an unbroken partnership that stabilized the innings. Just as the duo began accelerating, rain intervened with India at 137/3, leaving the contest incomplete.
A Tale of Two Campaigns
For India, this game was about fine-tuning ahead of the final. The team management will be satisfied that the middle order got valuable time in the middle. With Jasprit Bumrah and Shivam Dube rested, Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana got opportunities to feature in the XI.
Sri Lanka, meanwhile, approached the clash as a matter of pride after being eliminated from final contention. Their campaign, bright at the start, faded as the batting unit struggled once the top order was dismissed against quality bowling.
The Spotlight: The Sharma-Gill Synergy
Although brief today, the Sharma-Gill opening combination remains a major talking point. Having batted together since their Under-14 days, their synergy has blossomed into one of the most aggressive opening pairs in T20 cricket. Their friendship off the field continues to translate into understanding and fearless strokeplay on it.
Looking Ahead
Attention now shifts to the much-anticipated India vs Pakistan final on Sunday. India will be hoping for clear skies in Dubai to allow their bowlers time in the middle. With batting, bowling, and fielding units gradually clicking together, the Men in Blue’s aim is simple—arrive at the final with confidence and momentum firmly on their side.