India A's Semi-Final Hopes Dangle After Crushing Defeat to Pakistan Shaheens
The journey for India A in the ACC Men's Asia Cup Rising Stars 2025 has hit a major roadblock. The Jitesh Sharma-led side suffered a stunning defeat at the hands of Pakistan Shaheens in a high-voltage Group B clash in Doha on Sunday, November 17, 2025. This loss has pushed India A into a precarious must-win situation for their final group match.
Match Recap: A Tale of Two Collapses
After an explosive start against the UAE, where Vaibhav Suryavanshi bludgeoned a mesmerizing 144 runs off just 42 balls, expectations were high for India A. The match against Pakistan began promisingly, with Suryavanshi and Naman Dhir building a solid foundation. The team seemed to be heading towards a competitive total, reaching 91/2.
However, the match turned on its head dramatically. The dismissals of Naman Dhir in the 9th over and Vaibhav Suryavanshi in the 10th over triggered a catastrophic batting collapse. From a strong position, India A were bundled out for a modest 136 runs, losing their last eight wickets for just 45 runs.
Pakistan's chase was led masterfully by left-handed opener Maaz Sadaqat, who remained unbeaten on a brilliant 79. Sadaqat, who had also contributed with two wickets earlier, ensured Pakistan cruised to the target of 137 in a mere 13.2 overs. India's pace attack struggled for breakthroughs, conceding too many boundaries and extras, leading to a heavy defeat.
The Road to Redemption: A Do-or-Die Clash Against Oman
This result has significantly altered the dynamics of Group B in the Asia Cup Rising Stars 2025. The Pakistan Shaheens, with two wins from two matches, have secured 4 points and their semi-final berth. India A and Oman are now locked in a direct battle for the second qualifying spot, both having 2 points from one win and one loss.
The equation for India A is now simple and brutal: it's a virtual quarter-final. India A must defeat Oman in their final group match on Tuesday to secure their place in the semi-finals scheduled for Friday. A loss would see Oman advance alongside Pakistan, ending India's campaign.
ACC Rising Stars Asia Cup 2025 Points Table (After India A vs Pakistan A)
Group B
- Pakistan Shaheens: M:2, W:2, L:0, PT:4 (Qualified)
- India A: M:2, W:1, L:1, PT:2
- Oman: M:2, W:1, L:1, PT:2
- United Arab Emirates: M:2, W:0, L:2, PT:0
All eyes will now be on the high-stakes encounter between India A and Oman. The winner will not only progress to the semi-finals but also keep alive the dream of lifting the trophy in the final on Sunday.
