Pakistan beat India by 8 wickets in Rising Stars Asia Cup

India A continued their ‘no handshake’ policy against Pakistan A after losing by eight wickets in Match 6 of the Rising Stars Asia Cup 2025 on Sunday, 16 November, at West End Park International Cricket Stadium, Doha. After being put in to bat first, India were bundled out for just 136 in 19 overs, with Vaibhav Suryavanshi top-scoring with 45 (28). In reply, Pakistan chased down the target in just 13.2 overs, riding on a splendid innings from Maaz Sadaqat (79* off 47).

Pakistan’s chase got off to a breathtaking start, with openers Mohammad Naeem and Maaz Sadaqat adding 55 runs for the first wicket off 33 balls. Sadaqat was the aggressor in the partnership as he continued his rich form after scoring a remarkable 96 (54) against Oman in the previous fixture. The southpaw took on the Indian bowling right from the word go and produced an excellent exhibition of adventurous



strokes.

The 20-year-old got a couple of reprieves as well, getting dropped on 53 by Vaibhav Suryavanshi. He was given another life on 56 after Nehal Wadhera and Naman Dhir completed a relay catch. However, as per the new rules, the third umpire ruled him not out and his innings continued. He eventually finished off the game with his blistering 79* (47), laced with seven fours and four sixes, and took Pakistan A into the semi-final. As the game ended, both set of players walked towards the dressing room without shaking hands, continuing the practice started by the senior team during the recent Asia Cup 2025.

Earlier, India’s innings got off to a good start again as the teenage batting sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi hit a boundary off the very first ball. The southpaw further played some gorgeous shots on the off side, giving ominous signs to Pakistan.