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india vs pakistan Asia cup 16 Nov 2025 live

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India ‘A’ vs Pakistan ‘A’ – The Rivalry Reignited in Doha

The Date: Sunday, November 16, 2025 The Stage: ACC Men’s Asia Cup Rising Stars 2025, Doha, Qatar The Contest: India ‘A’ vs Pakistan ‘A’

The fiercest rivalry in cricket is set to ignite once more, not on the grand stage of the senior Asia Cup, but in the crucial development arena of the ACC Men’s Asia Cup Rising Stars 2025. On November 16th, at the West End Park International Cricket Stadium in Doha, the ‘A’ teams of India and Pakistan will lock horns, offering a tantalizing glimpse into the future of two cricketing giants.

While the main draw often features household names, this tournament is arguably more significant for the health of both nations’ cricket. It is a vital crucible where emerging stars—many fresh from impressive IPL and domestic campaigns—are tested under the immense, unique pressure of an India-Pakistan clash. The T20 format of this tournament guarantees high-octane action and zero margin for error.

🔥 The Indian Challenge: IPL Power Meets Domestic Depth

The India ‘A’ squad, captained by the explosive wicket-keeper batter Jitesh Sharma, is a perfect blend of T20 specialists and robust domestic performers. The team boasts serious firepower, particularly in their batting lineup.

IPL sensations like Naman Dhir (Vice-Captain) and the aggressive finisher Ashutosh Sharma will be under the spotlight. Their ability to clear the boundary ropes under pressure will be critical in the high-scoring conditions often seen in T20 tournaments. The squad also includes promising names like Priyansh Arya and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who are looking to translate their domestic success into a statement performance on the international ‘A’ stage.

In the bowling department, the spin duo of Suyash Sharma and the all-round capability of players like Ramandeep Singh and pacers like Yash Thakur and Vijaykumar Vyshak give the Indian side a well-rounded look. For these players, a match-winning performance against Pakistan ‘A’ is the fastest ticket to the senior national reckoning.

🇵🇰 The Pakistan Response: Experience and Raw Pace

Pakistan ‘A’ (or Pakistan Shaheens), led by the composed Muhammad Irfan Khan, offers a slightly more experienced counterpoint. The squad features a few players who have already tasted senior international cricket, including Irfan himself, left-arm spinner Sufiyan Muqeem, and pacer Ahmed Daniyal. This senior exposure could be a crucial psychological advantage.

The Shaheens’ strength traditionally lies in their pace bowling. The combination of Daniyal’s experience and the raw speed of others like Ubaid Shah will be tasked with challenging the aggressive Indian openers. With the bat, Irfan Khan, alongside players like Maaz Sadaqat and Yasir Khan, will shoulder the responsibility of building innings and finishing strong. Their strategy will likely hinge on their ability to utilize their fast-bowling resources effectively while preventing the Indian batters from getting off to a flyer.

⚔️ The Pressure Cooker in Doha

The India-Pakistan rivalry transcends the team names. The atmosphere in Doha, despite this being an ‘A’ side contest, will be electric. The emotional baggage of the rivalry—the sheer noise and scrutiny—serves as an invaluable test of temperament for these young men.

This Group B encounter is not just about points; it is a battle for pride, a litmus test for future international careers, and a chance for redemption. Given the history of the Rising Stars tournament (previously Emerging Teams Asia Cup), where Pakistan ‘A’ defeated India ‘A’ in the 2023 final, the Blue Brigade will be keen to avenge that loss.

With both squads packed with dynamic, T20-ready talent, fans can expect a spectacular evening of cricket. The match on November 16th is more than a game—it’s a demonstration of Asia’s next generation, ready to handle the highest pressure in the sport.