Pakistan A secured their third Asia Cup Rising Stars crown on November 23 with a dramatic victory over Bangladesh A in a nail-biting Super Over at Doha’s West End Park International Cricket Stadium. Led by Irfan Khan Niazi, the young Pakistan side held firm in the tense final moments, preventing Akbar Ali’s Bangladesh from claiming their maiden title.
Throughout the clash, ACC chief and PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi drew considerable attention as broadcast cameras frequently captured his animated reactions to the fluctuating contest. His arrival on the field for the post-match presentation instantly sparked memories of the contentious scenes at the 2025 Asia Cup final in Dubai.
During that event, Naqvi had insisted on personally awarding the trophy to India, which the team refused, resulting in the ceremony being halted midway. Naqvi later asserted that Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav could collect the trophy from the ACC office instead, a remark that had stirred widespread debate. His involvement in the Doha final, therefore, added an extra layer of intrigue to the occasion.
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Pakistan’s Rocky Start And Mid-Innings Rebuild
Earlier in the day, Pakistan’s batting effort experienced a turbulent beginning. The team found themselves reeling at 2 for 2 after losing Yasir Khan and Mohammad Faiq in quick succession, putting immediate pressure on the middle order. Maaz Sadaqat and Arafat Minhas brought some stability with measured contributions of 23 off 18 and 25 off 23, respectively, allowing Pakistan to regain some footing.
However, Bangladesh’s bowlers continued to strike at regular intervals, dismantling partnerships before they could flourish. By the time the sixth wicket fell, Pakistan were struggling at 75 for 6 and in desperate need of a counter-attacking innings to stay competitive in the final.
Saad Masood’s Game-Changing Knock And Bangladesh’s Bowling Brilliance
The turning point came when Saad Masood delivered a dynamic performance under pressure. His explosive 38 off 26 balls, decorated with three boundaries and three towering sixes, resurrected Pakistan’s innings and propelled them to a defendable total of 125. While the score remained modest, it was a testament to Masood’s composure and ability to shift momentum at a crucial phase.
Bangladesh’s bowlers, especially Ripon Mondol with figures of 3 for 25 and Rakibul Hasan with 2 for 16, maintained disciplined lines and restricted scoring opportunities effectively. Despite their admirable control and consistent breakthroughs, Pakistan’s late surge, combined with their calmness in the Super Over, ensured they walked away with the championship once again.
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