**Asia Cup 2025: India vs Pakistan Clash Witnesses Unique Powerplay Record**
*By Gaurav Tripathi | Sep 22, 2025 | 08:18 pm*
In a thrilling encounter at the Dubai International Stadium, India secured a convincing six-wicket victory over Pakistan in their first Super 4 match of the T20 Asia Cup 2025. The standout performance came from Abhishek Sharma, whose blistering 74 off just 39 balls was instrumental in helping India chase down Pakistan’s total of 171 runs.
### A Powerplay Blitzkrieg and a New Record
The match witnessed an explosive start from the batters of both teams during the powerplay overs. Their aggressive approach in the first six overs not only set the tone for a high-octane contest but also led to a new record being scripted.
As per ESPNcricinfo, both teams posted their highest powerplay scores against each other in T20 Internationals during this game. Pakistan were 55/1 after six overs, narrowly surpassing their previous best of 54/0 set in the 2012 Asia Cup match in Bengaluru.
India, however, went a step further with their openers firing on all cylinders to reach 69/0 by the end of the powerplay. This surpassed India’s earlier best powerplay score against Pakistan, which was 62/1 in the 2022 Asia Cup match, also held in Dubai.
### Pakistan’s Solid Start and Competitive Total
Opting to bat first, Pakistan put up a challenging total of 171/5 in their 20 overs. The innings began with Fakhar Zaman making an impactful start, scoring 15 runs off just nine balls before getting out. He was well-supported by Sahibzada Farhan and Saim Ayub, who helped Pakistan reach 55/1 at the six-over mark.
Among the Pakistani batsmen, Sahibzada stood out as the only half-centurion with a resilient 58 off 45 balls, anchoring his side’s innings.
### India’s Chase Led by Sharma and Gill
India’s chase began aggressively, with Abhishek Sharma hitting a six off the very first ball. Together with Shubman Gill, Sharma ensured a blistering powerplay, helping India reach 69/0.
The opening duo added a crucial 105 runs partnership, laying a strong foundation for the chase. Shubman Gill contributed a stylish 47 off 28 balls, including eight fours, complementing Sharma’s knock perfectly.
India’s middle order, featuring Suryakumar Yadav and Hardik Pandya, efficiently steered the team to victory with seven balls to spare, wrapping up a memorable win over their arch-rivals.
### Player of the Match: Abhishek Sharma
Abhishek Sharma’s stellar innings earned him the Player of the Match award. His 39-ball 74, which included six fours and five sixes, was the highlight of India’s batting display and a key factor in the team’s successful chase.
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India’s victory not only boosted their confidence in the tournament but also etched a new chapter in the storied India-Pakistan T20 rivalry with record-breaking powerplay performances and electrifying cricket.
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