Top 3 reasons why United Arab Emirates lost to Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2025 match 10

Pakistan defeated United Arab Emirates in Match 10 of the Asia Cup 2025, sealing a 41-run victory to move into the Super Four. Batting first, Pakistan were reduced to 89/6 but Fakhar Zaman’s steady 50 provided stability before Shaheen Afridi’s blistering 29 off 14 balls* lifted them to a respectable 146/9. The United Arab Emirates’ bowlers, spearheaded by Junaid Siddique (4/27) and Simranjeet Singh (3/26), were able to restrict Pakistan to below 150 runs. UAE’s chase, however, got off to a rocky start as they quickly fell to 37/3 in powerplay overs, with their top order undone by firm Pakistani pace and spin. Although the middle order fought briefly, they fell to pressure and were bowled out for 105 runs in 17.3 overs. Below are the main reasons for the United Arab Emirates defeat:

1. Pakistan’s batting recovery backed by Fakhar Zaman and Shaheen Afridi

Despite early pressure, Fakhar Zaman’s 50 anchored Pakistan’s recovery, while Shaheen Afridi’s explosive 29 off 14* in the death overs lifted them to a defendable 146/9.

2. Early UAE top-order collapse under raw pace

Chasing 147, UAE lost 3 key wickets within the first six overs, including Sharafu and Waseem, to Pakistan’s bowling brilliance from Shaheen Afridi and Abrar Ahmed, restricting them to 37/3 and derailing the chase early.

3. Pakistan’s disciplined bowling throughout the innings

The bowlers from Pakistan applied control in all phases of play, with Shaheen striking early and spinners like Abrar Ahmed being good in the middle. Their consistency and accuracy meant that the UAE was never able to find any sort of rhythm in the chase.