India outclass Pakistan as spinners dominate in Asia Cup clash

India produced a commanding all-round display to defeat Pakistan by seven wickets in their Asia Cup Group A contest in Dubai on Sunday, with Kuldeep Yadav leading the charge.

Left-arm wrist spinner Kuldeep claimed 3-18 and was ably supported by Axar Patel, who took 2-18, as Pakistan were restricted to 127-9. Hardik Pandya struck with the new ball to dismiss Saim Ayub for a golden duck, while Jasprit Bumrah removed Mohammad Haris. Sahibzada Farhan’s 40 was the only substantial resistance before the spinners dismantled the middle order. Shaheen Shah Afridi offered late fireworks, smashing 33 not out off 16 balls with four sixes, but Pakistan could only limp past 120.

In reply, Abhishek Sharma launched India’s chase with a whirlwind 31 from 13 deliveries, taking on Afridi with four boundaries and two sixes before falling to Ayub. Shubman Gill departed early, but captain Suryakumar Yadav anchored the innings with an unbeaten 47 on his 35th birthday. He added 56 with Tilak Varma, who made 31, and sealed victory with a six in the 16th over.

“It was just another game,” Suryakumar said at the presentation. “We stand with the victims of the families of the Pahalgam terror attack and we express our solidarity. We want to dedicate today’s win to the armed forces.”

The result leaves India with two wins from two and on the verge of qualifying for the Super Fours. Pakistan, beaten but still well placed, face hosts United Arab Emirates on Wednesday.