IND vs PAK Asia Cup 2025: Abhishek Sharma and Shubman Gill Silence Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf with Explosive Batting

The high-voltage India vs Pakistan clash in the Asia Cup 2025 Super Four delivered yet another chapter of drama, passion, and thrilling cricket at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Abhishek Sharma and Shubman Gill not only hammered Pakistan’s bowlers with the bat but also engaged in heated exchanges with Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf, making the match even more intense.

Abhishek Sharma Stuns Shaheen Afridi from Ball One

The duel between Abhishek Sharma and Shaheen Afridi set the tone for the night. Facing Afridi’s very first delivery, Abhishek launched a powerful pull shot that sailed over fine leg for a six. Shaheen, who had tried to intimidate the young Indian with a sharp bouncer, was left stunned. The fearless stroke immediately drew attention and reminded fans of Abhishek’s aggressive intent in previous matches.

Shaheen, visibly upset, exchanged words with Abhishek. The tension in the middle was palpable, but the Indian opener remained unfazed, continuing to attack Pakistan’s premier pacer with confidence.

Gill Takes on Afridi in Style

If Afridi expected a breather against Shubman Gill, he was mistaken. In the very next over, Afridi attempted to unsettle Gill with short deliveries and verbal jibes. However, Gill responded with composure and brilliance. On Afridi’s fourth and sixth deliveries of the over, Gill struck two commanding boundaries.

After one of the shots raced past the boundary rope, Gill pointed towards the fence, signaling that Afridi’s pace held no fear for him. This display of calm defiance perfectly complemented Abhishek’s aggressive onslaught, leaving Pakistan’s lead bowler under immense pressure.

Heated Moments with Haris Rauf

The battle wasn’t limited to Afridi. When Haris Rauf came into the attack, he too tried to rattle the Indian openers with bouncers and aggressive body language. Abhishek initially mistimed a shot, but the duo didn’t take long to counter-attack.

Gill punished Rauf with a cracking boundary straight down the ground, followed by Abhishek’s attempt to dominate with aggressive strokes. The exchanges quickly turned heated, with words flying between the players. The umpires had to step in to calm tempers before the situation escalated further.

Record-Breaking Opening Stand

Despite the heated atmosphere, Abhishek Sharma and Shubman Gill remained focused on the bigger task—chasing down Pakistan’s total. The pair built a record-breaking partnership of 105 runs off just 59 balls, making it the highest opening stand for India against Pakistan in T20 internationals.

Gill’s innings ended at 47 runs off 28 deliveries, decorated with eight elegant boundaries. Abhishek, however, continued to dominate, smashing 74 runs from 39 balls, which included six fours and five towering sixes. His fearless knock dismantled Pakistan’s attack and energized the Indian camp.

India’s Statement of Dominance

The fiery exchanges between the batters and bowlers added spice to an already electrifying rivalry. But beyond the banter, India’s opening pair showcased a blend of skill, aggression, and mental toughness. By neutralizing Afridi and Rauf—two of Pakistan’s most dangerous bowlers—India not only took control of the game but also sent a strong message to their opponents.

This performance underlined why the India vs Pakistan rivalry remains cricket’s most intense spectacle. Every ball was charged with emotion, every run carried weight, and every confrontation captured the spirit of this age-old contest.

✅ Key Highlights:

• Abhishek Sharma smashed Shaheen Afridi’s first ball for a six, setting the tone.

• Heated exchanges took place between Indian batters and Pakistani bowlers.

• Gill struck two boundaries off Afridi in one over, showing his composure.

• Both batters responded to Haris Rauf’s aggression with boundaries.

• Abhishek (74 off 39) and Gill (47 off 28) built a record 105-run stand.

India’s openers didn’t just score runs—they broke the morale of Pakistan’s bowling attack. With this fiery partnership, Abhishek and Gill not only scripted a memorable win but also ensured that Dubai witnessed another unforgettable India-Pakistan showdown.