Rinku Singh had manifested hitting the winning runs in the Asia Cup and despite playing just one ball in the entire tournament, the Indian finisher incredibly managed to do that on Sunday night. Rinku’s first game of the tournament happened to be the high pressure final against Pakistan. All he needed was just one ball to make his wish come true, a hit over mid-on on his very first ball taking India to their ninth Asia Cup title and second in the shortest format.
“Nothing else matters. This one ball matters. One was needed. I hit it for a four. Everyone knows I am a finisher. Team won and I am really happy,” said an elated Rinku Singh after an edge-of-the-seat final. His calm under pressure and precise execution turned a single delivery into a historic moment, proving that patience and belief can create unforgettable outcomes.
This is how #RinkuSingh truly manifested his winning moment.
He wrote ‘WIN RUN’ on a piece of paper, at the start of the tournament. Wow. #AsiaCupFinal pic.twitter.com/y5MJMlbh47
— Nidhi Taneja (@NidhiTanejaa) September 28, 2025
Team Effort and Key Contributions
The team’s performance was a combination of planning, adaptability, and seizing opportunities. “Special performance by the boys tonight. Slightly behind the game in the second innings. Not our best power play with the bat. But the guys summed up the conditions well,” expressed a satisfied coach. Shivam Dube, who replaced the injured Hardik Pandya, rose to the occasion.
“It was a nice opportunity for Dube and he set the tone beautifully, and what a way to finish with the bat.” Morkel appreciated Dube’s contribution with the ball as well. “That was something we discussed, that it might be an opportunity for him to use the new ball. Unfortunately, he (Hardik) got injured and he (Dube) had to step up. Practice sessions are focused, they know how to go and get themselves ready.”
Bowling Brilliance and Batting Under Pressure
Kuldeep Yadav’s four-wicket haul was pivotal in shifting momentum back to India. “It is very important to bowl in the middle overs. We (the spinners), playing together, it is a luxury to have. Everyone has a different role. They started really well. After 10-11 overs, they were 100-1. We knew if we could get a couple of wickets, then it was not going to be easy for the new batter to come in and score runs.”
The batting duo of Sanju Samson and Tilak Varma handled the immense pressure with skill and composure. “I really enjoyed the pressure. Not played many India vs Pakistan games but the pressure was there. I had to use my experience, calm my nerves, watch the ball and react. Came off well today. Had a good partnership with Tilak and really enjoyed playing the game today,” said Samson, highlighting the blend of strategy, temperament, and teamwork that led India to a memorable victory.
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