
ISLAMABAD: The stage is set in Doha for a high-stakes showdown as Pakistan Shaheens take on Bangladesh A in the Rising Stars Asia Cup 2025 Final on Sunday. Both sides have impressed throughout the tournament and will now battle for the coveted title.
Organized by the Asian Cricket Council (ACC), the event was previously known as the Emerging Teams Asia Cup. First held in 2013, the competition has completed six editions so far. For 2025, the tournament was rebranded as Rising Stars and switched to the T20 format.
This year’s edition, which began on November 14, features eight teams — five developmental or second-tier sides from full-member Asian nations and three associate teams.
Pakistan A have been the standout team of the tournament, entering the final undefeated.
The Shaheens defeated Oman, UAE, and arch-rivals India A in the group stage to seal their semifinal berth.
In the semifinal, Pakistan edged past Sri Lanka A in a thrilling last-over finish, keeping their perfect record intact.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) expressed confidence ahead of the final, writing on Saturday:
“Looking ahead to the final against Bangladesh A on Sunday.”
Bangladesh A booked their spot in the final after overcoming India A in a tense semifinal thriller.
Their campaign has been marked by disciplined bowling and impactful contributions from emerging young players.
With both sides in strong form, the final promises a gripping contest between two evenly matched teams.
Mohammad Naeem, Maaz Sadaqat, Yasir Khan, Mohammad Faiq, Irfan Khan (c), Ghazi Ghori (w), Saad Masood, Shahid Aziz, Ahmed Daniyal, Ubaid Shah, Sufiyan Muqeem, Khurram Shahzad, Mubasir Khan, Arafat Minhas, Muhammad Shahzad, Mohammad Salman Mirza
Habibur Rahman Sohan, Jishan Alam, Zawad Abrar, Akbar Ali (w/c), Abu Hider Rony, SM Meherob, Mahidul Islam Ankon, Yasir Ali, Rakibul Hasan, Abdul Gaffar Saqlain, Ripon Mondol, Ariful Islam, Tofael Ahmed, Shadhin Islam, Mrittunjoy Chowdhury
As Pakistan Shaheens aim to extend their unbeaten streak and Bangladesh A look to upset the favorites, today’s final in Doha is set to deliver an exciting finale to the Rising Stars Asia Cup 2025.