Pakistan Shaheens emerged victorious in a thrilling final of the Rising Stars Asia Cup 2025, defeating Bangladesh A in a nail-biting Super Over after the regulation 20-over match ended tied at 125 runs each. The tournament took place at the West End Park International Cricket Stadium in Doha from November 14 to November 23, 2025. This win marked Pakistan Shaheens’ third Asia Cup Rising Stars title out of their five final appearances in seven tournaments.
Tournament Overview
The Men’s Asia Cup Rising Stars 2025 featured eight teams split into two groups. Pakistan Shaheens were in Group B alongside Oman, India A, and UAE, while Group A included Bangladesh A, Afghanistan A, Hong Kong, and Sri Lanka A. Under the captaincy of Muhammad Irfan Khan, Pakistan Shaheens had an undefeated group stage, winning crucial matches against India A, UAE, and Oman. They advanced to the final after a tense semi-final win over Sri Lanka A by five runs. Bangladesh A reached the final by thrillingly beating India A in their semi-final via a Super Over showdown.
The Final Match Summary
In the final, Bangladesh A won the toss and elected to field first. Pakistan Shaheens posted a modest total of 125 runs in their 20 overs, with notable contributions from Saad Masood, who scored 38 runs, Arafat Minhas with 25, and Maaz Sadaqat adding 23 runs. Bangladesh’s Ripon Mondol was the standout bowler with figures of 3 wickets for 25 runs, while Rakibul Hasan also impressed with 2 wickets for 16 runs.
Bangladesh A began their chase strongly but lost early wickets quickly, including run-outs and dismissals that put them under pressure at 25/3. However, a partnership between SM Meherob and Rakibul Hasan helped revive their innings. Despite being restricted at regular intervals by Pakistan’s bowlers, Bangladesh managed to level the score at 125, thanks in part to extras and crucial singles in the closing overs.
The Super Over Thriller
With scores tied, the match went to a Super Over. Pakistan Shaheens bowled first, and Ahmed Daniyal was outstanding, taking two wickets in three balls and conceding only six runs. In response, Pakistan needed seven runs to win and chased them successfully in just four balls without losing any wickets. Key batsmen Saad Masood and Maaz Sadaqat ensured a calm and composed finish, dramatically securing the championship.
Significance of the Win
This victory was Pakistan Shaheens’ third Rising Stars Asia Cup title, reinforcing their status as a dominant force in emerging cricket talent in Asia. The win also highlighted the depth of Pakistan’s cricketing future, with several young players showing promise on a competitive international stage. Bangladesh A’s performance was commendable, pushing the final to the brink and showcasing the growing strength of their emerging cricket talent.
The Rising Stars Asia Cup 2025 not only provided exciting cricket but also underscored the importance of nurturing young talent across Asian nations, setting the stage for future international stars.
