Why India and Pakistan have never met in an Asia Cup final

The cricketing rivalry between India and Pakistan is unlike any other in the sporting world. It is built on decades of history, passion, and unforgettable contests that go far beyond just the boundary lines.

Whenever the two teams meet, the intensity is unmatched, as players carry the weight of national pride along with their personal performances. For fans, it is not merely a game but an occasion that brings waves of excitement and anticipation.

With millions tuning in across the globe, every India–Pakistan clash turns into a spectacle. The rivalry continues to inspire incredible moments on the field, cementing its place as one of the most captivating and fiercely contested battles in international cricket.

See Also: ‘We have nothing to lose….’- Oman captain Jatinder Singh on historic Asia Cup debut

The India-Pakistan Clash Always Bring Excitement:

The highly anticipated Asia Cup 2025 match between India and Pakistan will take place in Dubai on September 14. Fans are eagerly waiting for this encounter, which promises intense competition. India has often dominated such crucial clashes, especially on the big stage of ICC tournaments, adding more excitement to the upcoming contest.

India’s dominance over Pakistan on the global stage is remarkable, with 15 victories in 16 ICC World Cup encounters. They hold an unbeaten 8-0 record in ODIs and a commanding 7-1 lead in T20 World Cups. This superiority has also reflected in the Asia Cup, where India regularly maintain the upper hand against their biggest rivals.

Since its launch in 1984, the Asia Cup has seen India and Pakistan participate in 15 of the 16 editions. Over the years, the two cricketing giants have met 18 times in the tournament, battling across both ODI and T20 formats, adding fuel to their historic rivalry.

• Highest Number of Asia Cup Titles:

Surprisingly, despite their long-standing rivalry, India and Pakistan have never clashed in an Asia Cup final. Their encounters have largely unfolded during group matches or Super Four stages, where the pressure of qualification has often intensified the atmosphere. These high-stakes meetings continue to be among the tournament’s most anticipated and emotionally charged contests.

• India vs Pakistan Asia Cup — Head-to-Head Record:

Upperhand of India in India- Pakistan Clash in the history of Asia Cup:

In Asia Cup history, India held the upper hand against Pakistan, securing 10 wins compared to Pakistan’s six, with two matches ending in no result. This record highlights India’s consistent edge in this high-profile tournament over the years.

Focusing on formats, the T20 Asia Cup has seen three encounters between the two sides, with India winning two and Pakistan one. In ODIs, the rivalry has been more frequent, with 15 matches played. India have won eight of these, Pakistan five, while two matches ended without a result, reflecting the competitive yet India-leaning nature of their clashes.

 

India head into the upcoming Asia Cup edition with both their historical record and recent form working in their favor. In the last five years, from September 2020 to September 2025, the two sides have faced off in five T20 Internationals. India have narrowly led these encounters, winning three while Pakistan claimed two victories, highlighting the competitive nature of their recent battles.

This string of recent successes provides India with a confidence boost as they look to maintain their edge in T20 cricket. Their aim will be to continue asserting dominance over Pakistan in the shortest format.