Star India batter Tilak Varma reflected on his match-winning performance in the Asia Cup 2025 final, saying that while Pakistan’s Haris Rauf is a world-class pacer, he felt confident taking him on. Varma’s unbeaten 69 off 53 balls played a pivotal role as India chased down 147 to secure a thrilling five-wicket win over arch-rivals Pakistan in Dubai.

Walking out with India in early trouble at 20/3, Varma was the target of sledging and on-field hostilities from Pakistani players. However, he maintained his composure and delivered one of the most defining knocks of his career.

“Haris Rauf might be a world-class bowler but I am also a good batter,” Tilak Varma said in Hyderabad while discussing his innings with the media.

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Varma’s calm yet audacious approach guided India through tense moments. He built crucial partnerships with Sanju Samson, who scored 24, and Shivam Dube, who contributed 33 off 21. A 60-run stand between Dube and Varma steadied India’s innings and kept the chase alive.

In the final over, needing 10 runs, Tilak Varma hit Rauf to mid-wicket before Rinku Singh sealed the victory with his first shot of the tournament, sending fans into ecstasy.

Tilak Varma credited his teammates for their contributions, emphasizing the importance of the support from Samson and Dube. “Fantastic knock from Samson. The way Dube batted under pressure was important for the country,” he said.

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The electric atmosphere at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium further inspired Varma to anchor India’s chase and perform under pressure. His innings not only earned him the Player of the Match award but also demonstrated his ability to thrive in high-stakes situations, helping India lift the Asia Cup for a record-extending ninth time.