The last group-stage clash of the Asia Cup 2025 delivered high drama as Oman pushed India harder than expected before eventually going down by 21 runs in Dubai. India, batting first, put 188 on the board thanks to Sanju Samson’s fluent 56, but Oman’s spirited reply ended at 167 for 4 in 20 overs.
One of the standout moments came almost immediately. In just the second over of India’s innings, Shah Faisal produced a brilliant full-length delivery that crashed into Shubman Gill’s off stump. Gill walked back for only five, and Oman celebrated their first breakthrough after just nine legal deliveries.
That wicket not only lifted Oman’s confidence but also caught the attention of legendary fast bowler Wasim Akram. Speaking on Sony Sports Network, Akram urged Pakistan’s spearhead Shaheen Afridi to learn from Faisal’s approach before Sunday’s high-voltage India-Pakistan encounter.
“Shaheen needs to stop being predictable,” Akram said. “Everyone knows he starts with yorkers. A couple are fine, but when you bowl too many, you’re gambling. If you miss even slightly, it’s a free boundary with only two fielders outside the circle. He should focus on hitting a testing length, the way Faisal did. One yorker to surprise the batter is fine, but not ball after ball.”
Shaheen’s form in the group stage has been under scrutiny after he went wicketless and conceded 23 runs in just two overs. Akram believes a tactical adjustment could make all the difference when Pakistan meet India again in the Super Four.
For Oman, Shah Faisal’s opening strike set the tone, while Jiten Ramanandi and Aamir Kaleem also picked up two wickets each. With the bat, Kaleem (64) and Hammad Mirza (51) led a brave chase, stitching together a partnership that briefly threatened India’s grip on the match.
In the end, India’s depth ensured victory, keeping their unbeaten run intact. Now, all eyes are on Sunday in Dubai, where cricket’s fiercest rivals, India and Pakistan, will lock horns once again in the Super Four stage.
