The Asia Cup has long been regarded as the premier cricketing battle between Asian nations, delivering high-voltage contests filled with drama and unforgettable moments. From close finishes to surprising upsets, the tournament has always captured the passion of fans.

As anticipation grows for the next edition, the eight-team competition is set to unfold in the UAE from September 9 to 28. Fans in India can enjoy live cricket coverage exclusively on Sony Sports Network channels.

As excitement rises, it’s ideal to look back at the tournament’s most unforgettable encounters. Here’s a look back at 10 memorable encounters that showcase the spirit, intensity, and magic of the Asia Cup.

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10 Memorable Encounters of Asia Cup:

• India vs Sri Lanka - 1997 Final

The 1997 Asia Cup final at R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo turned into a dominant performance by Sri Lanka. India set a respectable total of 239/7, with Mohammad Azharuddin leading the charge through a stylish knock of 81 runs.

In reply, Sri Lanka showcased both composure and authority with the bat. Marvan Atapattu anchored the chase with a fine 84, while Sanath Jayasuriya’s fluent 63 kept the scoreboard ticking. The hosts made light work of the target, finishing the game in just 36.5 overs with eight wickets in hand, sealing the title in emphatic fashion.

• India vs Pakistan - 2012

In yet another gripping India-Pakistan clash, both teams showcased outstanding performances. Pakistan seemed in control as Nasir Jamshed and Mohammad Hafeez struck centuries to build a strong total. However, the spotlight shifted dramatically when Virat Kohli produced a breathtaking 183, steering India’s chase with authority. Backed by Rohit Sharma’s steady 68, Kohli’s brilliance outshone Pakistan and guided India to a commanding, unforgettable triumph.

• Pakistan vs Bangladesh – 2012 Final

In a nail-biting final in Dhaka, Pakistan set a target of 236 runs. Bangladesh put up a spirited fight, keeping hopes alive of a historic title win. However, the chase ended heartbreakingly close, with the hosts falling short by only two runs. Pakistan’s bowlers displayed composure under immense pressure in the final overs, sealing a dramatic victory and lifting the trophy in one of the most thrilling Asia Cup finishes.

• India vs Pakistan - 2014

This unforgettable one-wicket clash remains one of cricket’s most dramatic moments, remembered for Shahid Afridi’s sensational finish. Chasing India’s 246, Pakistan looked in deep trouble, requiring two sixes from the final two deliveries. With nerves of steel, Afridi launched consecutive sixes off Ravichandran Ashwin, transforming what seemed like certain defeat into an electrifying victory, sparking wild celebrations and cementing his reputation as one of the game’s greatest finishers.

• Sri Lanka vs Pakistan - 2014

In a gripping group-stage encounter, momentum shifted constantly as both sides battled hard. Sri Lanka relied on a mix of steady batting and sharp bowling to stay ahead. Lahiru Thirimanne’s brilliant century anchored the innings, while Lasith Malinga’s devastating five-wicket haul sealed the deal. Despite Pakistan’s late fight, Sri Lanka held their nerve to secure a narrow 12-run win in a match filled with drama and intensity.

• Bangladesh vs Pakistan – 2014

In Mirpur, Bangladesh piled up an impressive 326 runs, powered by Anamul Haque’s brilliant century and crucial half-centuries from Imrul Kayes, Mominul Haque, and Mushfiqur Rahim. The total looked daunting, but Pakistan began their reply with confidence, as Ahmed Shehzad anchored the chase with a fine 103, keeping his side in contention.

The game, however, swung into high drama in the latter stages. Shahid Afridi unleashed a breathtaking assault, hammering 59 runs from just 25 deliveries to shift the momentum. His fearless hitting reignited Pakistan’s hopes, and despite tense moments, they crossed the line with three wickets remaining. The victory stood out as a stunning comeback, underlining Pakistan’s fighting spirit and explosive batting depth.

• India vs Sri Lanka – 2016

India delivered a dominant display in the final, combining steady batting with sharp, controlled bowling. Restricting Sri Lanka to just 138/9, the bowlers ensured constant pressure throughout the innings. Virat Kohli once again stood tall with the bat, scoring his third consecutive half-century against Sri Lanka. His composed knock guided India smoothly to victory, showcasing their balance and consistency as they claimed the title with confidence and authority.

• Bangladesh vs Pakistan - 2016

At the Shere Bangla Stadium in Dhaka, Pakistan managed only 130, with Al-Amin Hossain shining through with figures of 3/25. Bangladesh replied confidently, anchored by Soumya Sarkar’s steady 48 and Mahmudullah’s quick unbeaten 22 off 15 balls. They reached the target in 19.1 overs, sealing a five-wicket triumph. The victory not only boosted their confidence but also ensured their spot in the final, keeping their campaign alive.

• India vs Bangladesh – 2018 Final

In the thrilling Dubai final, Litton Das’s superb century guided Bangladesh to 222, while India’s tense chase faced constant hurdles with Bangladesh striking at crucial moments. The contest stayed tense throughout, keeping fans on edge until the very end, highlighting the drama and intensity of the Asia Cup finale.

Kedar Jadhav, battling a hamstring injury, played a composed and decisive knock that turned the game in India’s favor. His composure in crunch moments secured a thrilling three-wicket win on the last ball, clinching the championship title. The nail-biting finish had every element of drama, ensuring fans remained captivated until the very last ball.

• Sri Lanka vs India - 2022

Sri Lanka showcased their comeback spirit with a commanding display against India, sealing a six-wicket win. The bowlers set the tone early, with Dilshan Madushanka delivering an impressive 3/24 to restrict India’s batting momentum.

During the chase, Sri Lanka’s batters delivered under pressure. Kusal Mendis and Pathum Nissanka anchored with steady fifties, while Bhanuka Rajapaksa and captain Dasun Shanaka applied the final flourish to secure victory. Their collective effort highlighted resilience and balance, earning a dramatic and well-deserved victory.