High-Stakes Rivalry Renewed in Doha
The cricketing world turns its attention to Doha as India A prepares to battle Pakistan A in what promises to be an electrifying encounter at the Rising Stars Asia Cup 2025. The sixth match of the tournament will unfold at the West End Park International Cricket Stadium on Sunday, November 16, with both teams entering the contest with significant momentum from their opening victories.
Recent Form Sets Stage for Thrilling Contest
Jitesh Sharma's India A made a spectacular start to their campaign, demolishing UAE by a massive 148-run margin. The highlight of their performance was young batting sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi's explosive 144 runs from just 68 deliveries. Captain Jitesh Sharma complemented this brilliance with an unbeaten 83, helping India A post a formidable total of 297/4 in their allotted 20 overs. The bowling unit then efficiently restricted UAE to 149/7, showcasing all-round dominance.
Pakistan A, under the leadership of Irfan Khan, faced a tougher challenge but emerged victorious against Oman. After setting a target of 221 runs, their bowlers delivered an impressive performance to bowl out the opposition for 180, securing a 40-run win. Both teams now carry this winning confidence into their highly anticipated clash.
Pitch Conditions and Toss Strategy
The surface at West End Park International Cricket Stadium has historically favored batsmen, and experts predict another flat track with true bounce and minimal sideways movement. Another 200-plus score is expected at this venue, particularly in this high-voltage encounter between the arch-rivals.
However, the pitch might offer slightly lower bounce compared to typical sub-continent wickets, which could bring spinners and slower cutters into the game as it progresses. Dew is likely to play a significant role during the night game, making the toss particularly crucial. The team batting second is expected to enjoy a distinct advantage as the ball tends to skid better under lights.
The captain winning the toss will likely opt to bowl first, considering the dew factor. With exceptional talents like Vaibhav Suryavanshi from India A and Sufiyan Muqeem from Pakistan A, this contest promises to deliver fireworks and keep cricket enthusiasts on the edge of their seats.
Squad Details and Broadcasting Information
India A T20I Squad: Jitesh Sharma (Captain), Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Priyansh Arya, Naman Dhir, Nehal Wadhera, Ramandeep Singh, Abishek Porel, Ashutosh Sharma, Harsh Dubey, Yash Thakur, Gurjapneet Singh, Suryansh Shedge, Yudhvir Singh Charak, Suyash Sharma, Vijaykumar Vyshak.
Pakistan A T20I Squad: Irfan Khan (Captain), Mohammad Naeem, Maaz Sadaqat, Yasir Khan, Mohammad Faiq, Saad Masood, Ghazi Ghori, Mubasir Khan, Ubaid Shah, Ahmed Daniyal, Khurram Shahzad, Muhammad Shahzad, Shahid Aziz, Mohammad Salman Mirza, Sufiyan Muqeem, Arafat Minhas.
The match begins at 8:00 PM IST on November 16, 2025. Indian viewers can watch the live telecast on Sony Sports Network, while live streaming will be available on SonyLIV and FanCode. Pakistani audiences can catch the action on PTV Sports and the Myco/Tamasha app.
