When Shoaib Malik, former Pakistan captain of Pakistan Cricket Board sat down for a post‑match interview after India’s 7‑wicket win, his frustration was palpable. The clash, part of Asia Cup 2025Kolkata, India, saw the Indian side dismantle the Pakistani bowlers in every department, and Malik’s criticism centered on a single name: Kuldeep Yadav.
Background of the Asia Cup 2025 clash
The tournament, hosted across several Indian venues, pitted the sub‑continent’s heavyweights against each other in a round‑robin format. India entered the game as clear favourites, having won five of their six ODIs with an average margin of 45 runs. Pakistan, on the other hand, arrived hoping to bounce back from a shaky series against Sri Lanka in early 2025.
India’s innings started cautiously, but a decisive partnership between Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli pushed the score to 127 before the first wicket fell. Pakistan’s bowlers, despite a few moments of promise, could not contain the run‑rate, and the hosts were bowled out for 131 in just 15.5 overs, sealing a 7‑wicket victory.
Indian spin dominance and Kuldeep Yadav’s performance
It wasn’t the top order that stole the show; it was the spin brigade, led by Kuldeep Yadav, Indian left‑arm wrist spinner of Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). In just four overs he claimed three wickets for a miserly 13 runs, returning figures of 4‑3‑13‑3. His economy of 3.25 was the lowest among all bowlers on the day.
Statistically, Kuldeep’s impact against Pakistan is staggering. Across ten ODIs, he has taken 18 wickets at an average of 12.67 and an economy of 3.93. In the 2019 showdown against Babar Azam’s side, he bowled the ‘big‑break’ ball that rattled the Pakistani top order – a delivery that has now become part of his repertoire.
During the match, India’s coaching staff noted his mental edge. “He thrives on the challenge,” said Ravi Shastri, Indian team coach. “When you’re up against a side that’s visibly uncomfortable, you keep the pressure on and let the wickets fall.”
Shoaib Malik’s critique of Pakistan’s game plan
Malik’s disappointment was not just about the loss; it was about the lack of preparation. "We don’t play bilateral series, only ICC tournaments, but after years we still have no plan for a bowler like Kuldeep," he said, his tone mixing exasperation with a hint of embarrassment. "Someone takes a wicket every game, and we sit there without a strategy. This is not how you plan for a tournament."
He also called out the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) approach, suggesting that the administration has failed to develop a coherent strategy against quality spin. "From 2022‑23 onward, whenever conditions favor a little swing or a modest turn, our batsmen crumble. It’s a pattern we need to break," Malik added.
Former captain Misbah‑ul‑Haq chimed in, focusing on the batting technique. "Our openers looked like statues – feet glued, only the bat moving. When the ball wiggles, you need footwork, not just brave swings," he observed, referencing how the Pakistani top order was reduced to defensive strokes after Kuldeep’s early breakthroughs.
Reactions from the Indian camp and coaching staff
India’s camp was relieved, yet cautious. Coach Shastri praised Kuldeep’s discipline, reminding the squad that “Pakistan is a tough opponent, but we stick to our game‑plan and let the bowlers do the talking.” The Indian side also highlighted their mental preparation. "We always aim to stay calm against Pakistan and focus on their patterns," said batting coach Mike Hesson. "We didn’t take any undue pressure; we let the bowlers create the moments."
Interestingly, the Indian coaching staff mentioned that Kuldeep had been practicing a specific variation – the ‘big‑break ball’ – ahead of the Asia Cup. That delivery was famously effective against Babar Azam in 2019, and it resurfaced with the same lethal impact.
Implications for Pakistan cricket and next steps
The loss has sparked a broader conversation about Pakistan’s talent pipeline. Some analysts argue that the PCB sent a relatively inexperienced squad, mixing veterans like Salman Ali Agha with younger players still finding their footing. "We need a systematic approach to spin, both in batting and bowling," said cricket analyst Harsha Bhogle. "Otherwise, we’ll keep getting out‑classed by teams that treat spin as a weapon rather than a threat."
Looking ahead, Pakistan will face Sri Lanka in their next Group A fixture. The coaching team has promised a “revamped strategy” that includes more practice against left‑arm wrist spin and a reassessment of batting footwork. Whether those adjustments will be enough to turn the tide remains to be seen.
Key takeaways
- India won by 7 wickets, scoring 131/3 in 15.5 overs.
- Kuldeep Yadav claimed 3 wickets for 13 runs, reinforcing his lethal record against Pakistan.
- Shoaib Malik criticised the PCB’s lack of a clear plan to counter spin.
- Former captains and analysts echoed concerns about Pakistan’s batting technique against turn.
- Pakistan’s next challenge: a must‑win against Sri Lanka to stay alive in the Asia Cup.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does this loss affect Pakistan’s chances in the Asia Cup?
The defeat leaves Pakistan with zero points after two games, meaning they must win their final group match against Sri Lanka and hope for a favorable net‑run‑rate scenario. Even then, their path to the semifinals is precarious.
What specific weaknesses did Shoaib Malik highlight?
Malik pointed to the absence of a tactical plan for dealing with left‑arm wrist spin, poor footwork from the openers, and the PCB’s failure to prepare a dedicated spin‑counter strategy. He believes these gaps cost Pakistan dearly.
Why is Kuldeep Yadav such a menace for Pakistan?
Kuldeep’s ability to turn the ball sharply and vary his pace, especially with the “big‑break” delivery, exploits the technical flaws many Pakistani batsmen exhibit against wrist spin. His low average and economy against them underline a psychological edge as well.
What changes can Pakistan make before their next game?
Coaches are likely to introduce targeted footwork drills, simulate left‑arm wrist spin in practice nets, and possibly rotate the batting order to bring in players more comfortable with turn. A clearer game‑plan from the PCB will also be essential.
How did India’s coaching staff prepare for Kuldeep’s spell?
India’s staff studied Kuldeep’s recent videos, especially his “big‑break” ball, and reinforced a calm, pressure‑free batting approach. They also kept the bowlers focused on attacking the specific areas where Pakistan historically faltered – short of a length and around the pads.
