Asia Cup 2025: Pakistan’s Theatrics Overshadow Cricket in Final Loss to India

Pakistan’s Asia Cup 2025 campaign ended in disappointment as off-field theatrics overshadowed on-field performance, culminating in a crushing defeat against India in the final. Once poised for dominance at 113 for one in just 12.4 overs, Pakistan collapsed, losing nine wickets for 33 runs in 39 balls, exposing glaring flaws under pressure.

Veteran Waqar Younis expressed his frustration as the team’s performance mirrored that of inexperienced amateurs. Fakhar Zaman and Sahibzada Farhan’s efforts were undone by a batting lineup that lacked composure and focus when it mattered most.

The final also saw Pakistan’s antics take center stage. Haris Rauf’s controversial ‘6-0’ gesture and Sahibzada Farhan’s provocative bat-pointing drew criticism, highlighting a culture of showmanship over substance. India’s five-wicket victory emphasized Pakistan’s inability to perform under pressure, while off-field controversies, including ACC President Mohsin Naqvi leaving with the trophy, added to the ignominy.

Recurring Patterns and Batting Fragilities

Pakistan’s batting vulnerabilities have been a recurring issue. In the Super 4 match against India, the team showed early promise but collapsed spectacularly, mirroring the final. Aside from standout contributions from Farhan and Fakhar, most of the batting lineup, including Shaheen Shah Afridi, Mohammad Haris, and Faheem Ashraf, failed to make meaningful scores. Reckless shot-making and lack of partnerships were evident, leading to yet another self-inflicted defeat.

Captaincy Concerns

Salman Agha’s captaincy faced widespread criticism. With a modest average of 12 and a strike rate of 80.89 in T20 cricket, his leadership raised questions, especially when established players like Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan were sidelined. Strategic missteps, including ineffective bowling changes in the final, contributed to Pakistan’s collapse and highlighted a lack of coherent planning.

A Decline from Former Glory

Pakistan cricket, once a powerhouse producing legends such as Imran Khan, Wasim Akram, and Waqar Younis, has witnessed a steady decline. The focus on theatrics and distractions undermines professionalism and erodes the respect built over decades. Without a renewed emphasis on fundamentals, discipline, and team cohesion, Pakistan risks further humiliation and a tarnished legacy in international cricket.

Until the team prioritizes cricket over antics, Pakistan’s Asia Cup performances will continue to disappoint, overshadowing the country’s rich cricketing heritage.