In a stunning display of power-hitting and resilience, 20-year-old Maaz Sadaqat single-handedly guided Pakistan A to a comprehensive eight-wicket victory over India A in the Rising Stars Asia Cup 2025. The left-handed all-rounder capitalised on two crucial dropped catches to smash an unbeaten 79 runs from just 47 deliveries, chasing down a target of 137 with a massive seven overs to spare.
The Turning Point: Two Lifelines That Cost India A
The match witnessed dramatic momentum shifts, primarily due to two costly fielding errors by the Indian team. The first reprieve for Sadaqat came in the 8th over when he was completely deceived by a perfect googly from leg-spinner Suyash Sharma. The batter got a thick top edge towards point, where 16-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi dropped a straightforward catch, leaving the young fielder distraught.
The drama intensified in the 10th over. Sadaqat, then on 53, launched a massive slog-sweep towards deep mid-wicket. Fielders Nehal Wadhera and Naman Dhir both converged at the boundary rope. Wadhera caught the ball cleanly but stepped on the cushion, immediately flicking it to Dhir in a relay effort. The giant screen initially flashed 'OUT,' and Sadaqat started walking back. However, the TV umpire reviewed the footage and reversed the decision to NOT OUT, a moment that left the Indian fielders shell-shocked and irrevocably swung the match's momentum in Pakistan's favour.
From Peshawar Streets to Match-Winning Hero
Born on May 15, 2005, in Peshawar, Maaz Sadaqat's journey to the international stage began in the dusty streets of his hometown, where he honed his skills swinging at plastic balls. A natural left-hander known for his booming cover drive and clever left-arm spin, he rapidly progressed through school, club, and Under-19 cricket. His consistent domestic performances earned him a coveted spot in the Pakistan A squad, and the Rising Stars Asia Cup has become his breakout platform.
A Dominant All-Round Performance
After surviving the two dropped chances, Sadaqat didn't just settle in; he unleashed a brutal assault on the Indian bowling attack. He attacked the powerplay with ruthless efficiency, converting every scoring opportunity into a boundary. His magnificent, unbeaten knock of 79 runs was packed with 7 fours and 4 sixes, steering Pakistan A to 137/2 in a mere 13 overs.
This performance comes fresh on the heels of a blistering 96 against Oman, marking consecutive big scores for the young prodigy in the tournament. Demonstrating his all-round capabilities, Sadaqat had earlier made a significant impact with the ball, registering impressive figures of 2/13 in his three overs. His victims included India A captain Jitesh Sharma and the dangerous Nehal Wadhera.
Semifinals Scenario: What's Next for the Teams?
This emphatic victory propelled Pakistan A to the top of the Group B table, making them the first team to officially secure a place in the semifinals of the tournament. For India A, the path forward is now a must-win situation. They must defeat Oman in their final group stage encounter to keep their hopes alive and secure the remaining semifinal berth from the group.
