‘Pakistan had the burning desire to win against Bangladesh’ – Saeed Ajmal hypes PAK ahead of Asia Cup 2025 final vs India

Divy Dubey

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‘Pakistan had the burning desire to win against Bangladesh’ – Saeed Ajmal hypes PAK ahead of Asia Cup 2025 final vs India image

Pakistan have fought their way into the Asia Cup 2025 final - setting up a dream clash against India in Dubai. After an 11-run win over Bangladesh in the Super Four, the Men in Green sealed their place in Sunday's finale.

India had already qualified but Pakistan's passage came in dramatic fashion after defending a modest 135. It's the first time in 41 years that these two rivals will face off in an Asia Cup final.

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Saeed Ajmal praises Pakistan's spirit and bowling strength ahead of Asia Cup final

Former spinner Saeed Ajmal lauded Pakistan's fight in the must-win contest against Bangladesh. He highlighted the team's intensity and the importance of their bowling unit in turning the game around.

"Pakistan has reached the final - whatever the route, they have earned it by playing good cricket. The energy Pakistan showed in the last game against Bangladesh, defending just 135 runs, was outstanding. With disciplined bowling, even such a low total can be defended," Ajmal said on Instagram.

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He further stressed the role of bowlers in big tournaments:

"Batting wins you matches, but bowling wins you tournaments. I request the fans to stay positive. After 41 years, India and Pakistan are meeting in a final. That's a long wait. My best wishes to the Pakistan team and to all the fans."

How Pakistan sealed their spot in the Asia Cup 2025 final

Pakistan's batting failed again - slipping to 49 for 5 before Mohammad Haris (31) and Mohammad Nawaz (25) lifted them to 135 for 8. In the chase, Bangladesh looked on course after a bright start but stumbled under pressure.

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Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf picked up three wickets each while Saim Ayub struck twice with his spin. Despite Bangladesh striking more sixes overall, they kept losing wickets at crucial moments and eventually got restricted at 124.

The win means fans will witness the first India-Pakistan Asia Cup final since the start of the tournament.

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Divy Dubey

Divy Dubey is a content producer for The Sporting News' India edition. He has a passion for cricket and is an avid fan of football. His work spans culture, media, and digital trends. With a background in research and a curiosity-driven approach, he enjoys crafting thoughtful, engaging stories that invite readers to see everyday topics in a new light.