India’s emphatic seven-wicket win over Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2025 on Sunday carried emotions far beyond the cricket field. Head coach Gautam Gambhir, speaking after the match at the Dubai International Stadium, expressed his solidarity with the families affected by the Pahalgam terror attack and extended gratitude to the Indian Armed Forces for their bravery during Operation Sindoor.
“As a team, we wanted to show solidarity to the victims of the Pahalgam attack. Thanks to our soldiers for Operation Sindoor,” Gautam Gambhir said, underlining the sense of purpose with which the team played.
His remarks came shortly after skipper Suryakumar Yadav dedicated the victory to the armed forces. At the post-match presentation, Suryakumar echoed the team’s sentiments, stating that some occasions go beyond cricket.
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“We stand by the families of the Pahalgam terror attack victims. This win is for our soldiers who showed immense courage. We hope to continue giving them reasons to smile,” he said.
Gautam Gambhir shares his thoughts following India’s triumph over Pakistan 💬
Watch the #DPWorldAsiaCup2025, from Sept 9-28, 7 PM onwards, LIVE on the Sony Sports Network TV channels & Sony LIV.#SonySportsNetwork #INDvPAK pic.twitter.com/CWS1L6CaCu
— Sony Sports Network (@SonySportsNetwk) September 14, 2025
This victory is for you, India 🇮🇳
Watch #DPWorldAsiaCup2025, Sept 9-28, LIVE on the Sony Sports Network TV channels & Sony LIV.#SonySportsNetwork #INDvPAK pic.twitter.com/KXXzoF9fIR
— Sony Sports Network (@SonySportsNetwk) September 14, 2025
On the field, Pakistan’s batting faltered against India’s spin attack. Opener Sahibzada Farhan fought hard with a 40 off 44, while Shaheen Afridi provided late resistance with an unbeaten 33 from 16 deliveries. However, Kuldeep Yadav (3/18) and Axar Patel (2/18) choked the middle overs, restricting Pakistan to 127/9 after Salman Ali Agha chose to bat first.
Chasing the modest target, India showcased dominance. Abhishek Sharma set the tone with a blistering 31 off just 13 balls, while Tilak Varma played a steady hand with 31. Captain Suryakumar Yadav ensured there were no hiccups, finishing unbeaten on 47 off 37 balls. India wrapped up the chase in just 15.5 overs.
Notably, the match ended without the customary handshakes. After smashing the winning six off Sufiyan Muqeem, Suryakumar and Shivam Dube walked directly to the dressing room, a gesture that reflected the gravity of the moment beyond the scoreboard.
