ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Shaheens continued their dominant form in the Men’s Asia Cup Rising Stars 2025, registering a commanding eight-wicket victory over India A in their second Group B fixture at the West End Park International Cricket Stadium in Doha.
All-rounder Maaz Sadaqat led the way for Shaheens with a brilliant unbeaten 79 off 31 balls and impressive bowling figures of 2-12 in three overs, earning his successive Player of the Match award. The left-handed opener’s innings featured seven fours and four sixes, while he also contributed with his left-arm spin, taking two crucial wickets including a wicket-maiden over.
Maaz put on a blazing 55-run opening partnership with Mohammad Naeem (14, 10b, 1×4, 1×6), giving Pakistan a rapid start in the Powerplay. His aggressive approach included a 20-run seventh over, featuring two sixes off Naman Dhir, as Shaheens inched closer to their target of 137 with the required run rate dropping below five.
The young Peshawar-born batter’s dominance ensured Pakistan reached 137-2 in just 13.2 overs, losing only Yasir Khan among the top order. Mohammad Faiq (16 not out, 14b, 1×4, 1×6) remained unbeaten alongside Maaz, finishing the match with a six and helping Pakistan Shaheens remain unbeaten in the tournament so far, with their last group fixture against UAE scheduled for Tuesday.
Earlier, India A were restricted to 136 all out in 19 overs, thanks to disciplined bowling from Shahid Aziz (3-24), Maaz Sadaqat (2-12), and Saad Masood (2-31). Despite a strong start, India A collapsed from 91-2 to 136 all out, with key wickets falling to Sufyan, Shahid Aziz, Maaz, and Saad Masood. Top scorers Vaibhav Suryavanshi (45, 28b, 5×4s, 3×6s) and Naman Dhir (35, 20b, 6×4s, 1×6) could not convert their starts, as Pakistan’s bowlers kept the pressure consistent.
Following the win, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi called the victory a “proud moment for the nation” and lauded the Shaheens’ fearless and dominant performance. He also congratulated the team on their clean sweep against Sri Lanka in the recent ODI series, praising the players, coaches, and management for their dedication and commitment.
Governor Sindh Kamran Tessori and Chief Minister Sindh Murad Ali Shah also extended their congratulations to the team, recognizing their stellar performances and contribution to Pakistan cricket.
Scores in brief:
India A: 136 all out, 19 overs (Vaibhav Suryavanshi 45, Naman Dhir 35; Shahid Aziz 3-24, Maaz Sadaqat 2-12, Saad Masood 2-31)
Pakistan Shaheens: 137-2, 13.2 overs (Maaz Sadaqat 79 not out)
This victory keeps Pakistan Shaheens unbeaten and firmly in contention for the Rising Star Asia Cup 2025 semi-finals.