India’s emphatic win over Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2025 Super 4 clash has reignited debates around the latter’s batting depth, with former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan delivering a scathing assessment of Pakistan’s top order. Speaking on a post-match panel, Pathan remarked, “They don’t have that quality in batting to chase or build pressure. It’s not just about talent—it’s about temperament and adaptability.”
The match, held in Colombo on September 21, saw India dominate from start to finish, posting 178/3 in 19.2 overs and restricting Pakistan to 132/9, sealing a 46-run victory. The win not only secured India’s place in the final but also exposed glaring weaknesses in Pakistan’s batting lineup, which has struggled to deliver under pressure throughout the tournament.
Pathan’s comments came in the aftermath of Pakistan’s third consecutive defeat in the Super 4 stage, effectively knocking them out of contention. “You can’t rely on one or two players. Where’s the middle-order fight? Where’s the intent?” he asked during the broadcast.
Asia Cup 2025 Super 4 – India vs Pakistan Match Summary
| Category | India | Pakistan |
|---|---|---|
| Total Score | 178/3 in 19.2 overs | 132/9 in 20 overs |
| Top Performer | Abhishek Sharma – 82 (41) | Shadab Khan – 2/28 |
| Player of the Match | Abhishek Sharma | — |
| Result | India won by 46 runs | Eliminated from Super 4 |
| Crowd Reaction | Pro-India chants, high turnout | Mixed, subdued atmosphere |
Pathan’s critique focused on Pakistan’s inability to rotate strike and build partnerships. He pointed out that despite having experienced players like Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, the team lacked the composure to chase competitive totals. “You need more than flair. You need structure. India has that. Pakistan doesn’t,” he said.
The former cricketer also praised India’s bowling unit, especially Jasprit Bumrah and Kuldeep Yadav, for maintaining relentless pressure. “Our bowlers didn’t give an inch. That’s what forced errors. Pakistan’s batting collapsed not just because of poor shots—but because of sustained pressure,” Pathan added.
Pakistan’s Batting Performance – Asia Cup 2025 Super 4 Stage
| Match Opponent | Total Score | Top Scorer | Result | Batting Collapse Point |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| vs Bangladesh | 148/8 | Babar Azam – 42 | Lost by 5 runs | 3 wickets in 2 overs |
| vs Sri Lanka | 139/7 | Rizwan – 38 | Lost by 3 wickets | No boundary in last 4 overs |
| vs India | 132/9 | Iftikhar Ahmed – 29 | Lost by 46 runs | 5 wickets in middle overs |
Pakistan’s batting woes have been a recurring theme in recent tournaments. Despite a strong bowling attack, their inability to post or chase competitive totals has cost them crucial matches. Pathan’s comments echo sentiments shared by other cricket experts, who believe the team needs a complete overhaul of its batting strategy.
Former Pakistan captain Wasim Akram also weighed in, saying, “There’s talent, but no temperament. You can’t win tournaments with just potential. You need execution.” Shoaib Akhtar, meanwhile, called for “a fearless approach and better domestic grooming.”
India vs Pakistan – Recent Head-to-Head Record (2022–2025)
| Tournament | Venue | Result | India’s Top Performer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Asia Cup 2022 | Dubai | Pakistan won by 5 wkts | Hardik Pandya – 3/25 |
| T20 World Cup 2022 | Melbourne | India won by 4 wkts | Virat Kohli – 82* |
| Asia Cup 2023 | Colombo | India won by 228 runs | Kuldeep Yadav – 5/25 |
| World Cup 2023 | Ahmedabad | India won by 7 wkts | Rohit Sharma – 86 |
| Asia Cup 2025 | Colombo | India won by 46 runs | Abhishek Sharma – 82 |
Pathan’s remarks have sparked a wave of reactions on social media, with Indian fans applauding his blunt analysis and Pakistani fans calling for introspection. “He’s not wrong. We’ve been losing the same way for years,” tweeted a Pakistani cricket blogger.
The defeat also raises questions about Pakistan’s preparation for the ICC Champions Trophy 2026, where they are set to host the tournament. With less than a year to go, the team’s lack of batting depth could prove costly on home soil.
Expert Reactions – Pakistan’s Batting Under Fire
| Expert Name | Affiliation | Key Comment |
|---|---|---|
| Irfan Pathan | Former India player | “They don’t have that quality in batting…” |
| Wasim Akram | Former Pakistan captain | “Talent without temperament is useless” |
| Shoaib Akhtar | Former Pakistan pacer | “Fearless cricket needed, not defensive mindset” |
| Sanjay Manjrekar | Commentator | “Pakistan lacks middle-order stability” |
| Harsha Bhogle | Analyst | “India’s bowling exposed Pakistan’s fragility” |
India, meanwhile, will face Sri Lanka in the Asia Cup final on September 25. With young stars like Abhishek Sharma and Rinku Singh stepping up, the team looks well-balanced and confident. Pathan concluded his analysis by saying, “India is building a team for the future. Pakistan needs to start doing the same.”
Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available match reports, expert commentary, and media coverage. It does not reflect any political endorsement or opinion. All quotes are attributed to public figures and institutions as per coverage. The content is intended for editorial and informational purposes only.
