Tag Archives: Asia Cup 2025

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‘Please Take This As A Cricketing Observation’: Mohammad Kaif Clarifies His Tweet After Jasprit Bumrah Calls His Assessment ‘Inaccurate’ Amid Asia Cup 2025

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Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif has politely responded to Jasprit Bumrah’s remarks regarding his observation about Suryakumar Yadav’s utilization of the pacer, calling the comment inaccurate. Kaif clarified that his statement was merely a cricketing observation made as a well-wisher and admirer, and was not intended to be critical.

In the ongoing Asia Cup, Suryakumar Yadav often bowls three overs upfront of Bumrah, which leaves the right-arm speedster with only one over at the end. Although Bumrah has struggled slightly at times, he has still delivered crucial performances for the Indian team. The Ahmedabad-born bowler remains the second-highest wicket-taker for India in the competition, with five wickets in four matches.

Earlier, Bumrah retweeted Kaif’s tweet and wrote, “Inaccurate before, inaccurate again.” Responding to Bumrah on X, Kaif maintained a respectful tone: “Please take this as a cricketing observation from a well-wisher and an admirer. You are Indian cricket’s biggest match-winner and I know what it takes to give it all when on field wearing India colours.”

In India’s recent match against Bangladesh, Jasprit Bumrah played a key role in their 41-run victory. Despite having leaked over 40 runs against Pakistan in an earlier game, Bumrah was in top form against Bangladesh, finishing with impressive bowling figures of 4-0-18-2. His disciplined bowling helped the Men in Blue defend a modest total of 168, restricting Bangladesh to 127.

India’s batting in the match was largely led by Abhishek Sharma, who smashed 75 runs off just 37 deliveries, continuing his formidable form in the tournament. Although India’s finish was not as strong as fans might have hoped, the team maintained control throughout. Bangladesh started positively but lost regular wickets, with Kuldeep Yadav shining as the pick of the Indian bowlers by claiming three wickets.

Looking ahead, India is set to face arch-rivals Pakistan in the Asia Cup final on September 28, Sunday, in Dubai. Before that high-stakes encounter, the Men in Blue will use their game against Sri Lanka to fine-tune their preparations and strategies.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/sports/please-take-this-as-a-cricketing-observation-mohammad-kaif-clarifies-his-tweet-after-jasprit-bumrah-calls-his-assessment-inaccurate-amid-asia-cup-2025

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‘Kya Gali Ki Team Hai’: Mohammad Haris Trolled For Poor Game Awareness In PAK vs BAN Super 4 Asia Cup 2025 Clash; Video

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Pakistan keeper-batter Mohammad Haris faced criticism on social media after failing to ground his bat before taking off for a second run during the Asia Cup 2025 Super 4 match against Bangladesh at the Dubai International Stadium.

A video of the incident quickly surfaced online, with replays clearly showing that the right-handed batter had not grounded his bat. The moment occurred in the 11th over of the innings bowled by Mahedi Hasan. Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha took a big stride forward and flicked the ball to long-on. Both Pakistan batters sprinted quickly as Bangladesh fielder Rishad Hossain misfielded, allowing Pakistan to take two runs. However, the replays highlighted Haris’s lack of awareness for not properly grounding his bat before running.

Watch the video below to see the moment:

[Insert Video]

Here are some reactions from netizens regarding the incident:
[Insert Social Media Reactions]

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### Match Overview

Bangladesh won the toss and opted to field first at the Dubai International Stadium. Litton Das continued to remain on the sidelines as Jaker Ali won the toss for the second consecutive day in the Asia Cup 2025 and chose to bowl first.

Bangladesh made three changes to their playing XI, while Pakistan kept their side unchanged.

**Pakistan (Playing XI):**
Sahibzada Farhan, Fakhar Zaman, Saim Ayub, Salman Agha (c), Hussain Talat, Mohammad Haris (w), Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, Abrar Ahmed.

**Bangladesh (Playing XI):**
Saif Hassan, Parvez Hossain Emon, Towhid Hridoy, Shamim Hossain, Jaker Ali (w/c), Nurul Hasan, Mahedi Hasan, Rishad Hossain, Taskin Ahmed, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Mustafizur Rahman.

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### Innings Summary

The Men in Green lost the in-form Sahibzada Farhan early, with Taskin Ahmed dismissing him in the very first over. Pakistan struggled to build any momentum and eventually finished their innings at 135/8.

Mohammad Haris was the top scorer for Pakistan, managing a quickfire 31 runs off just 23 balls, providing some resistance for the bowlers to defend.

With 136 runs needed in 20 overs, Pakistan’s bowling attack will need to put in an exceptional performance to keep Bangladesh from chasing down the target.

—

The winner of this crucial match will face Team India in the Asia Cup final on Sunday, September 28.

Stay tuned for more updates and highlights from the Asia Cup 2025.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/sports/kya-gali-ki-team-hai-mohammad-haris-trolled-for-poor-game-awareness-in-pak-vs-ban-super-4-asia-cup-2025-clash-video

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PAK vs BAN, Asia Cup 2025, Super 4: No Litton Das Again, Bangladesh Opt To Bowl First In Virtual Semi-Final In Dubai, Pakistan Unchanged

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**Asia Cup 2025: Pakistan and Bangladesh Face Off in Crucial Super 4 Clash at Dubai International Stadium**

Litton Das remains on the sidelines as Jaker Ali continues to lead Bangladesh, having won the toss for the second consecutive day in the Asia Cup 2025. In a strategic move, Jaker Ali opted to bowl first at the Dubai International Stadium.

**Team Updates**

Bangladesh have confirmed three changes to their playing XI, while Pakistan maintain an unchanged lineup.

**Pakistan (Playing XI):** Sahibzada Farhan, Fakhar Zaman, Saim Ayub, Salman Agha (c), Hussain Talat, Mohammad Haris (w), Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, Abrar Ahmed.

**Bangladesh (Playing XI):** Saif Hassan, Parvez Hossain Emon, Towhid Hridoy, Shamim Hossain, Jaker Ali (w/c), Nurul Hasan, Mahedi Hasan, Rishad Hossain, Taskin Ahmed, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Mustafizur Rahman.

**Match Preview**

Pakistan and Bangladesh will lock horns at the electric atmosphere of the Dubai International Stadium on Thursday, September 25, to determine the second finalist of Asia Cup 2025. The winner will face Team India, who advanced to the final by defeating Bangladesh at the same venue on Wednesday.

Two-time Asia Cup champions Pakistan regained significant confidence after their five-wicket victory over Sri Lanka in their second Super 4 game held in Abu Dhabi. Their consistent bowling attack and electric fielding were major highlights of the win. However, the batting lineup still requires improvement, particularly the middle order, which has shown signs of instability.

Bangladesh, on the other hand, face a quick turnaround after their 41-run defeat to Sri Lanka. The Tigers impressed with their bowling and fielding efforts, successfully restricting the formidable Indian batting lineup to below 170 runs in their previous match. When it came to batting, however, none of the Bangladeshi batters could make a significant impact except Saif Hassan, who stood out as the lone warrior with a resilient 69.

A key point of interest remains whether Litton Das will make a return to the Bangladesh side after missing the clash against India due to a side strain.

Stay tuned for what promises to be a thrilling encounter between Pakistan and Bangladesh as they battle it out for a spot in the Asia Cup 2025 final.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/sports/pak-vs-ban-asia-cup-2025-super-4-no-litton-das-again-bangladesh-opt-to-bowl-first-in-virtual-semi-final-in-dubai-pakistan-unchanged

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Asia Cup: Sahibzada Farhan’s gun gesture after half-century draws flak

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**Asia Cup 2025: Sahibzada Farhan’s Gun Gesture After Half-Century Draws Flak**

*By Rajdeep Saha | Sep 21, 2025, 09:53 pm*

Pakistan cricketer Sahibzada Farhan has come under fire for his controversial celebration during the Asia Cup 2025 Super 4 clash against India. After scoring a stylish half-century, Farhan made a gun firing gesture towards his dugout, a move that sparked widespread criticism and outrage.

The incident has been particularly sensitive given the recent Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed the lives of 26 innocent Indian citizens at the hands of Pakistan-based militants. Many fans took to social media to express their disappointment over Farhan’s actions, interpreting the gesture as an insensitive provocation.

**The Controversial Celebration**

Farhan reached his 50 runs in impressive fashion during the match on September 21, hitting a massive six off Axar Patel in the 10th over. However, instead of a standard celebration, Farhan’s firing gun gesture quickly drew sharp attention and backlash online, overshadowing his performance.

**Reactions from Fans**

Social media users reacted swiftly to Farhan’s gesture, condemning it for being inappropriate amidst the recent tragic events. One disappointed fan wrote, “Disappointed with Sahibzada Farhan’s gun gesture after his 50 in the IND vs PAK match. Felt like a jab at India’s hospitality.” Another user added, “Sahibzada Farhan showing how his brothers killed innocent tourists in Pahalgam through his half-century celebration.”

**Match Summary**

On the field, Pakistan faced challenges early in their innings at the Dubai International Stadium. They lost three wickets during the powerplay. Farhan himself was eventually dismissed by Indian all-rounder Shivam Dube for 58 runs off 45 balls.

Dube had earlier taken the wicket of Saim Ayub, who scored 21 runs. Pakistan opener Fakhar Zaman’s innings ended controversially when he was caught behind by Sanju Samson off Hardik Pandya’s bowling. Additionally, Kuldeep Yadav took the wicket of Hussain Talat as India aimed to keep Pakistan’s score in check during this crucial Super 4 match.

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The Asia Cup clash between India and Pakistan always carries intense emotions on and off the field, but Farhan’s celebration has heightened debates around sportsmanship and respect amid ongoing political sensitivities.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/pakistan-cricketer-sahibzada-farhan-s-gun-gesture-anger-fans/story

controversy, international relations, politics, social issues, sports

Asia Cup: Sahibzada Farhan’s gun gesture after half-century draws flak

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**Asia Cup: Sahibzada Farhan’s Gun Gesture After Half-Century Draws Flak**

*By Rajdeep Saha | September 21, 2025, 9:53 PM*

Pakistan cricketer Sahibzada Farhan’s celebration following his half-century in the Asia Cup 2025 Super 4 clash against India has sparked widespread criticism and controversy.

During the match held on September 21 at the Dubai International Stadium, Farhan reached his 50 runs in style by smashing a huge six off India’s Axar Patel in the 10th over, injecting momentum into Pakistan’s innings. However, his subsequent celebration raised eyebrows — Farhan made a firing gun gesture pointed towards his dugout.

This act quickly drew backlash on social media, given the sensitive context. The incident occurred only months after the tragic Pahalgam terror attack, where 26 innocent Indian tourists lost their lives in an assault claimed to be carried out by Pakistan-based militants. Many fans interpreted Farhan’s gesture as highly inappropriate and disrespectful in light of recent events.

**Public Reaction and Outrage**

Social media users were swift to express their disappointment and anger over Farhan’s celebration. One fan tweeted, “Disappointed with Sahibzada Farhan’s gun gesture after his 50 in the Ind vs Pak match. Felt like a jab at India’s hospitality.” Another harshly commented, “Sahibzada Farhan showing how his brothers killed innocent tourists in Pahalgam through his half-century celebration.”

The gesture not only overshadowed Farhan’s on-field performance but also intensified tensions between cricket fans amid the longstanding rivalry between the two nations.

**Match Summary**

In the Super 4 clash, Pakistan faced early setbacks as they lost three wickets in the powerplay overs. Farhan gave a fighting effort, scoring 58 runs off 45 balls before being dismissed by Shivam Dube.

Earlier wickets included Saim Ayub, who was taken out by Dube after scoring 21, and Pakistan opener Fakhar Zaman, controversially caught behind by Sanju Samson off Hardik Pandya’s bowling. Kuldeep Yadav also claimed the wicket of Hussain Talat as India aimed to restrict Pakistan’s scoring.

The match remains a high-stakes encounter as both teams compete fiercely in the Asia Cup tournament.

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*Stay tuned for more updates and in-depth analysis of the Asia Cup 2025.*
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/pakistan-cricketer-sahibzada-farhan-s-gun-gesture-anger-fans/story

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Asia Cup 2025: Andy Pycroft, Who PCB Requested To Be Removed Over Handshake Row, Set To Officiate IND vs PAK Super 4 Clash, Claims Report

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Zimbabwean match referee Andy Pycroft, who the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) requested to be banned from Asia Cup 2025 following the controversial handshake incident, will reportedly officiate the Super 4 match between Pakistan and India on Sunday, September 21.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) rejected PCB’s request to ban Pycroft from the remainder of the tournament. Despite the controversy, Pycroft officiated Pakistan’s recent match against the UAE without any changes.

The controversy arose after the Group stage match between India and Pakistan, when the PCB released a statement claiming that Pycroft had instructed captains Suryakumar Yadav and Salman Ali Agha not to shake hands. Pakistan was visibly upset over the Indian players not shaking hands, with Agha notably skipping the post-game presentation duties in protest.

Before the match against the UAE, the PCB had formally written to the ICC requesting Pycroft’s ban, citing a violation of the spirit of cricket. The Pakistan vs. UAE match was also surrounded by rumors of a potential boycott from Pakistan’s side. However, after an hour’s delay, the game proceeded as scheduled.

Looking back at recent performances, both Team India and Pakistan secured victories in their previous matches. India defeated Oman, while Pakistan managed a 41-run win over the UAE. Though Pakistan will draw confidence from their recent win, they face a challenging task in overcoming the formidable Indian side.

In their Group Stage encounter, the Men in Blue outplayed Pakistan comprehensively, winning by seven wickets. While India rested key players Jasprit Bumrah and Varun Chakravarthy against Oman, both are expected to return for the high-stakes clash with Pakistan.

For Pakistan to triumph over India, they will need to deliver an exceptional performance. The Super 4 stage of the Asia Cup kicks off on Sunday with Sri Lanka facing Bangladesh, setting the stage for what promises to be a thrilling tournament phase.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/sports/asia-cup-2025-andy-pycroft-who-pcb-requested-to-be-removed-over-handshake-row-set-to-officiate-ind-vs-pak-super-4-clash-claims-report

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Asia Cup 2025: Suryakumar Yadav Shares Tips With Oman Players After Team India Wins The Match By 21 Runs

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Team India T20I skipper Suryakumar Yadav was seen engaging warmly with Oman players after India secured a 21-run victory on Friday, September 19. During the post-match presentation, Oman captain Jatinder Singh spoke about their conversation, saying, “Surya spoke about the game and praised us, which means a lot. Our boys had enquiries about the various T20 game phases. It was a pleasure to speak with him.”

In the lead-up to the match, Jatinder had also expressed excitement about sharing the field with some of his cricketing idols. Following the game, players from both teams were seen taking pictures together, highlighting the spirit of camaraderie.

Recognizing the valiant effort from their opponents, Suryakumar Yadav led the Indian team towards the Oman dugout to initiate handshakes and exchange smiles. This gesture was especially significant, coming just days after Indian players were seen skipping handshakes with their Pakistani counterparts.

### India Escapes Defeat Against Oman

India wrapped up their group stage campaign at the Asia Cup 2025 in dominant fashion by defeating Oman by 21 runs in their final group match. With this win, India not only secured the top spot in their group but also maintained an unbeaten record heading into the Super Four stage.

Winning the toss, India captain Suryakumar Yadav chose to bat first on a pitch that looked conducive for scoring—a decision that paid off. Despite a few early setbacks, the Indian batting lineup posted a competitive total of 188/8 in 20 overs. Sanju Samson anchored the innings with a fluent 56-run knock, providing stability and momentum.

Setting a challenging target of 189, India faced an Oman side playing against the T20 World Champions for the first time. Although the Indian bowling attack was without key players Jasprit Bumrah and Varun Chakravarthy, they managed to maintain composure and kept Oman at bay during the crucial final overs. Oman were eventually restricted to 167/4 in 20 overs.

It was also a memorable day for Arshdeep Singh, who became the quickest pacer to reach 100 T20I wickets, achieving the milestone in just 64 matches. He is the first Indian bowler to accomplish this feat, adding another highlight to India’s victory.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/sports/asia-cup-2025-suryakumar-yadav-shares-tips-with-oman-players-after-team-india-wins-the-match-by-21-runs

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Asia Cup 2025: Mohammad Nabi Launches Merciless Assault On Dunith Wellalage’s Bowling In SL vs AFG Match, Clobbers 5 Sixes; Video

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Afghanistan all-rounder Mohammad Nabi launched a merciless assault on Sri Lankan spinner Dunith Wellalage in the Asia Cup 2025 game at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Thursday, September 18. Nabi clobbered five sixes off the 20th over of the innings, helping Afghanistan finish strongly and set a stiff target for the opposition.

The moment occurred as Charith Asalanka turned to the left-arm spinner Wellalage, taking a massive gamble against the big-hitting Nabi. The veteran smashed the first three sixes off long-off, mid-wicket, and long-on. Wellalage followed it up with a no-ball, and the 40-year-old cleared the boundary two more times. Nabi tried to go again on the final ball but Sri Lanka managed to run him out.

Nabi’s explosive 60 off 22 deliveries, laced with six sixes, ensured that Sri Lanka reached a competitive total of 169/8 despite being 79/6 at one stage. Sri Lanka’s Nuwan Thushara bowled outstandingly with the new ball, finishing with figures of 4-0-18-4. Wellalage, Dushmantha Chameera, and Dasun Shanaka claimed one wicket each.

Earlier in the match, Afghanistan skipper Rashid Khan won the toss and elected to bat first, as both sides chased a crucial win in the last match of Group B.

**Sri Lanka Playing XI:**
Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (wk), Kamil Mishara, Kusal Perera, Charith Asalanka (c), Dasun Shanaka, Kamindu Mendis, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Dushmantha Chameera, Nuwan Thushara.

**Afghanistan Playing XI:**
Sediqullah Atal, Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Ibrahim Zadran, Darwish Rasooli, Mohammad Nabi, Azmatullah Omarzai, Karim Janat, Rashid Khan (c), Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Noor Ahmad, Fazalhaq Farooqi.

In other tournament news, India and Pakistan have sealed their spots into the Super 4 round from Group A, each with two wins. Team India now has the opportunity to make it three out of three in the tournament.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/sports/asia-cup-2025-mohammad-nabi-launches-merciless-assault-on-dunith-wellalages-bowling-in-sl-vs-afg-match-clobbers-5-sixes-video