India’s cricketing triumph in the Asia Cup 2025 final against arch-rivals Pakistan was nothing short of spectacular. Chasing a tricky target of 147 in Dubai, Team India showcased resilience, skill, and nerves of steel to seal their ninth Asia Cup title. While the match itself was a rollercoaster, it was head coach Gautam Gambhir’s viral 6-word tweet that stole the spotlight, sending a strong message to detractors and fans alike.
— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) September 28, 2025
Tilak Varma Steals the Show with Match-Winning Knock
After India bowled Pakistan out for 146 in 19.1 overs, thanks to a sensational bowling display by Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakravarthy, and Axar Patel, the chase looked challenging but achievable. Despite losing early wickets—Abhishek Sharma (5), Suryakumar Yadav (1), and Shubman Gill (12)—India found composure in Tilak Varma.
Varma’s unbeaten 69 off 53 balls included crucial partnerships with Sanju Samson (24 off 21) and Shivam Dube (33 off 22). His ability to anchor the innings under pressure, especially when India was reeling at 20/3, proved decisive. The final over was a thriller: needing 10 runs, Varma smashed Haris Rauf for a massive six, bringing victory home with composure and flair.
India’s Spin Trio Dominates Pakistan
The spotlight wasn’t just on India’s batsmen. Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakravarthy, and Axar Patel turned the tide with a spellbinding performance, taking nine wickets for just 33 runs in the back 10 overs. This spin dominance highlighted India’s strategic depth and adaptability in subcontinental conditions.
Jasprit Bumrah added the icing on the cake, yorking Haris Rauf and mimicking a playful crashing-plane gesture, a cheeky response to Rauf’s controversial celebration earlier in the match.
Gambhir’s Tweet and Dugout Ecstasy Go Viral
Post-match, Gautam Gambhir took to social media to motivate his team and subtly silence Pakistan’s pre-match “6-0” taunt. His simple yet powerful message:
“In the end, INTENT always wins.”
The tweet resonated with cricket fans worldwide and quickly went viral, reflecting the emotion and intensity of the historic victory. Gambhir was also seen slamming the dugout table in sheer delight after Tilak Varma’s six off Rauf, capturing the passion and drama of the final.
India Refuses Trophy Amid Presentation Drama
The celebrations took an unusual turn during the trophy presentation. India refused to accept the Asia Cup trophy because it was supposed to be handed over by PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi. A tense standoff ensued on stage for over an hour, with the Pakistani team absent from the ceremony. Eventually, the trophy was not awarded to India at the presentation, making this win historic not just for the cricket but also for the dramatic off-field narrative.