The India vs Pakistan clash is always about intense rivalries and game-changing battles, and one of the most exciting matchups in Asia Cup 2025 has been Abhishek Sharma vs Shaheen Shah Afridi. Abhishek, India’s explosive left-handed opener, is in dream form, while Shaheen remains Pakistan’s most potent new-ball weapon. This duel in the powerplay overs could set the tone for the final on 28 September 2025 at Dubai.
Abhishek Sharma – Powerplay Beast
Abhishek Sharma has transformed into a high-impact opener for India. His T20I powerplay strike rate in 2025 is 210.8, showing just how aggressively he goes from the very first ball. Against Pakistan in the Super Four clash (21 Sept), he smashed 74 off 39 balls, earning the Player of the Match award.
| Format | Matches | Runs | Strike Rate | 50s/100s |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| T20I (2025) | 19 | 639 | 196.42 | 3/2 |
| IPL 2024 (Powerplay SR) | – | – | 203 | – |
Key Highlights:
- Known for taking on bowlers right from the start, often hitting boundaries off the first ball.
- Scored 639 runs in 2025 T20Is at a blazing SR of 196.42, one of the best globally this year.
- In Asia Cup 2025, he already has 309 runs at an average above 50.
Read more: Abhishek Sharma vs Pakistan & Dubai Stadium Stats
Shaheen Afridi – Pakistan’s Strike Bowler
Shaheen Afridi has been a nightmare for opposition openers, particularly in powerplays where he swings the new ball dangerously. But against India in this Asia Cup, he has struggled to make early breakthroughs – finishing with 0/40 in 3.5 overs in the 21 Sept clash.
| Format | Matches vs India | Wickets | Best Figures | Economy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| T20I | 4 | 4 | 3/31 (Dubai 2021) | 8.20 |
| ODI | 5 | 9 | 4/35 (Pallekele 2023) | 5.90 |
- Famous for his 3/31 in the 2021 T20 World Cup, dismissing Rohit, Rahul, and Kohli.
- Has taken 47 powerplay wickets in T20Is at an economy of 7.07 overall.
- Yet to trouble Abhishek Sharma significantly in Asia Cup 2025.
Head-to-Head: The Key Battle
| Player | Strength | Key Threat |
|---|---|---|
| Abhishek Sharma | Fearless striker, 200+ SR in powerplay | Can be vulnerable to swinging yorkers early |
| Shaheen Afridi | Full-length swing, left-arm angle | Can be neutralised if Abhishek survives first 2 overs |
Read more: Shaheen Afridi vs India: Stats & Dubai Stadium Bowling Records
Dubai International Stadium – The Stage
Dubai has already witnessed some thrillers this Asia Cup, including India’s Super Over win vs Sri Lanka. For Abhishek and Shaheen, the conditions offer contrasting opportunities: early swing for Shaheen, true bounce and quick outfield for Abhishek.
| Player | Matches at Dubai | Key Stats |
|---|---|---|
| Abhishek Sharma | 3 (Asia Cup 2025) | Highest 74(39) vs Pakistan; 309 runs in tournament |
| Shaheen Afridi | 7+ T20Is & ODIs | 3/31 vs India (2021 WC); 11 wickets overall |
Expert View
Most experts believe this battle is the decider of the powerplay momentum. If Shaheen finds early swing, India could be under pressure. But if Abhishek counters him, Pakistan’s bowling plans collapse quickly.
Read more: India vs Pakistan Asia Cup Head to Head
Conclusion
The Abhishek vs Shaheen contest is the marquee subplot of the Asia Cup 2025 final. Abhishek is in unstoppable form, while Shaheen has everything to prove after going wicketless in their last clash. Fans can expect fireworks in the first two overs at Dubai – whoever wins this duel could swing the Asia Cup trophy in their team’s favor.
