Former Pakistan pacer Mohammad Amir was visibly emotional following Pakistan’s heartbreaking defeat to India in the Asia Cup 2025 final. In a video that quickly went viral on social media, Amir appeared on the verge of tears as he dissected the Men in Green’s batting collapse and applauded India’s young sensation Tilak Varma for his composure under pressure.
Pakistan’s Asia Cup 2025 Collapse
Amir’s reflection highlighted Pakistan’s failure to capitalize on a strong start. Batting first, Pakistan seemed in control at 114/3 in 13.3 overs, but a series of poor shot selections and a lack of strategic planning led to the team being bowled out for just 147 runs.
“This is unbelievable. We really missed a huge opportunity; we could have won this match,” Amir said, recalling the shocking slide. He criticized Pakistan’s tendency to attack too early without allowing new batsmen to settle, a factor that has repeatedly cost the team in high-stakes T20 encounters against India.
Amir further explained, “In T20s, the first ten overs yield runs, but the last ten overs are tricky. The ball gets softer, and it’s harder for new batsmen to make an impact. Only a set batsman can change the game at that stage.”
Tilak Varma’s Masterclass
While Pakistan faltered, India’s chase of 148 runs showcased the brilliance of Tilak Varma, who remained unbeaten on 69. Amir praised the youngster for his game awareness, strategic partnerships, and ability to rotate the strike effectively.
“Look at Tilak Verma — his composure is incredible. Our players still have a lot to learn about when to play what shot. Tilak played smart cricket, built partnerships, and took singles when required. That’s how you win matches,” Amir noted.
Varma’s innings underlined why India has consistently been able to chase modest totals in modern T20 cricket, proving that even low-scoring games demand mental toughness and situational awareness.
The Cricketing Takeaway
Amir’s candid post-match analysis resonated with cricket fans worldwide. Pakistan’s slide from 113/1 to 147 all out left their bowlers with minimal buffer to defend the target. Despite early wickets for India, including 20/3 in the fourth over, it was one partnership and Varma’s unbeaten knock that sealed the win.
“This was a huge chance, and we gave it away,” Amir said. “A total of 140-150 is no longer competitive in modern T20 cricket. Runs on the board create pressure, and we didn’t capitalize.”
This defeat adds another chapter to Pakistan’s ongoing struggles against India in high-profile tournaments, echoing the heartbreak of the 2024 World Cup clash.
Emotional Impact on Players
Amir’s visible distress also reflects the immense emotional pressure players face in India-Pakistan encounters. His raw, post-match reflections on X highlighted the human side of cricket, where strategic missteps can overshadow effort and talent.