Opener Abhishek Sharma unleashed a ferocious 74 as India triumphed over Pakistan by six wickets, once again refusing to shake hands with their rivals in the intense Super Four match of the illustrious Asia Cup on Sunday.
In pursuit of a 172-run target, India leaned on a formidable 105-run partnership between dynamic left-hander Abhishek and Shubman Gill, who contributed a valiant 47, reaching victory with seven deliveries remaining amidst the sweltering atmosphere of Dubai.
The arch-nemeses clashed with heightened tensions in the regional championship after previous discord when India had declined the customary handshake during their group stage encounter.
The game simmered with animosity as Gill and speed merchant Shaheen Afridi shared a heated exchange of glares after a powerful Gill strike forged a boundary from Shaheen’s delivery.
Both Abhishek and Gill surged forward aggressively, orchestrating a symphony of boundaries that dismantled the Pakistani bowling lineup, soaring to 101 without loss in just 9 overs. Abhishek and Haris Rauf perpetuated the tension with a spirited exchange.
“Today was quite straightforward; their approach towards us was unwarranted, and I found it distasteful,” Abhishek remarked, earning him the player of the match accolade. “That’s why I went on the offensive, determined to contribute to the team’s triumph.”
Medium-pacer Faheen Ashraf soon dismissed Gill, while Rauf delivered a crucial blow by removing captain Suryakumar Yadav for no score, momentarily curbing India’s momentum.
Abhishek’s explosive innings ended at the hands of Abrar Ahmed’s masterful leg-spin, his 35-ball storm yielding six fours and five towering sixes.
Rauf added another to his tally, but Tilak Varma’s resilient unbeaten 30 off 19 balls, punctuated by a six and a four, guided the team to victory.
Departing swiftly, the Indian batsmen avoided further interaction as the Pakistani players exchanged handshakes amongst themselves.
“We are yet to deliver a flawless performance, but we are progressing,” acknowledged Pakistan captain Salman Agha. “It was an excellent game, but during the powerplay, they seized a decisive advantage.”