The age-old rivalry between cricketing giants India and Pakistan is set to be reignited on September 2 in Pallekele during the 2023 Asia Cup, adding yet another thrilling chapter to the storied history of their clashes. These archrivals have been engaging in fierce battles at the continental event since 1984, when Sunil Gavaskar’s team emerged victorious by 54 runs against Zaheer Abbas and his squad in Sharjah.
Among the twelve completed encounters between India and Pakistan in the Asia Cup, there are five standout matches that have left an indelible mark on the memories of cricket aficionados.
2014, Pakistan’s Nerve-Wracking Win – Mirpur
In a pulsating showdown, Pakistan needed ten runs off the last over. Shahid Afridi’s explosive prowess shone as he struck consecutive sixes off R. Ashwin, securing a thrilling one-wicket victory with two balls remaining. The match ebbed and flowed, with Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s crucial wickets in the penultimate over and Afridi’s power-hitting defining the contest.
2010, India’s Resilient Triumph – Dambulla
This clash epitomized the intensity of the Indo-Pak rivalry. Shoaib Akhtar’s altercation with Harbhajan Singh after a fiery bouncer set the tone. With India needing six off four balls, Praveen Kumar capitalized on an Akhtar misfield, and Harbhajan’s daring boundary off Mohammad Amir clinched India’s dramatic three-wicket win.
2012, Kohli’s Heroics – Mirpur
Virat Kohli’s remarkable knock of 183 against Pakistan in Mirpur remains etched in history. Chasing a daunting 330, Kohli’s masterclass, along with contributions from Sachin Tendulkar and Rohit Sharma, propelled India to a memorable six-wicket victory. Though Kohli narrowly missed sealing the win, his blitz had irreparably shifted the momentum.
2008, Sehwag’s Dominance- Karachi
Virender Sehwag’s explosive century and Suresh Raina’s rapid 84 steered India to a commanding six-wicket win in Karachi. The duo’s 198-run partnership overshadowed Pakistan’s cautious approach that led to a total of 299. Sehwag’s blistering knock and Raina’s contribution proved insurmountable as India triumphed with 47 balls to spare.
2004, Pakistan’s Clinical Display- Colombo
Pakistan’s dominant 59-run victory in Colombo showcased their prowess. Shoaib Malik’s spectacular 143 and his crucial wickets set the tone for Pakistan’s triumph. Despite India’s bid to salvage a bonus point by falling short of 59 runs, Pakistan emerged victorious.
