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India and Pakistan (Source:@AFP)
The Asia Cup 2025 final is here, but this time, it is not just another high-voltage India-Pakistan match. It is the first-ever India-Pakistan Asia Cup final in 41 years. Another striking factor in this match is that it is happening against the backdrop of tragedy, transition, and emotions.
This is not just a match. This is a moment in history...
Pahalgam attack still hurts...
It has been few months since the devastating terror attack near Pahalgam struck. In the horrific incident, 26 innocent civilians lost their lives, and the pain from this is still fresh and continues to linger over the nation to this day.
India and Pakistan's rivalry is beyond just sport; it touches on culture, identity, and deeply rooted history. But this final feels different. It comes at a time when the country is still suffering from tragedy, and emotions are at an all-time high.
In the lead-up to the final, the memories of Pahalgam have been impossible to ignore. For the Indian team, this match is not just about winning a trophy. It is about honouring those we lost. It is about standing tall in the face of sorrow.
Tension on and off the field
Even before the Asia Cup 2025 began, tension was palpable, and a similar situation was observed during the group-stage match between India and Pakistan - notably, the pre-match handshakes between the two captains were absent.
To add fuel to the fire, Suryakumar, during his post-match remarks, dedicated the victory to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack. Many accused the Indian captain of bringing politics into sport.
But for many Indians watching, Suryakumar’s tribute was not politics. It was personal. It was emotional. It was patriotic....
41 Years in Waiting: A final for the ages
Another factor that could help India win this final is that, in 41 years, two of the most passionate cricketing nations have not faced each other in an Asia Cup final. Generations of fans have seen countless group-stage battles, Super four clashes, and even World Cup thrillers, but never an Asia Cup final. So this match becomes much more special...
A Possible Last Dance: Farewell to Icons?
There is also a sentimental layer to this final; this might be the last Asia Cup for some of India’s most cherished players. Jasprit Bumrah, now 31, has led India’s bowling attack with courage and consistency. But years of intense cricket have taken their toll on his body. There is a chance that this could be his final appearance in Asia Cup.
Suryakumar Yadav, 35, might also be playing his last Asia Cup, so as fans, we would want the Indian captain to end on a high note.
But let’s also talk Cricket
So, even if we remove the emotions, India will walk into this final with momentum. The top order is in remarkable form, Kuldeep has been deadly with the ball, and the team looks balanced and confident. Pakistan also has its moments and can never be taken lightly in the finals.
Having said all this, the next question is: What Does Victory Mean Now for Team India?
What Does Victory Mean Now?
In my opinion, it means everything; it honours the memories of those lost in Pahalgam, and it also marks the closure of a 41-year-old chapter in cricketing history.
Cricket may be a game. But sometimes, just sometimes, it becomes something greater...
