Irfan Pathan, a former Indian cricket player, lauded Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav for a masterful tactical manoeuvre during Sunday, September 21, the Asia Cup 2025’s second Super Four match versus Pakistan in Dubai. India decided to field first after winning the toss.
Irfan Pathan emphasised how the captain made a brilliant move by including all-rounder Shivam Dube in the bowling attack. Sahibzada Farhan and Saim Ayub, the openers for Pakistan, looked comfortable at the crease at that point and were gaining confidence as they built momentum. But their flow was broken when Dube entered. The tall all-rounder put a stop to the scoring pace by hitting twice in quick succession and dismissed both of the set hitters
“Game changer move! Since Surya brought Shivam Dube into the attack, momentum has completely shifted. India on top now!,” wrote Irfan Pathan on X.
Game changer move! Since Surya brought Shivam Dube into the attack, momentum has completely shifted. India on top now!
— Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) September 21, 2025
With figures of 2 for 33, Dube fulfilled his four-over quota and gave India timely and vital breakthroughs. Irfan Pathan had previously emphasised the value of diversity in India’s bowling attack. Although Hardik Pandya and Dube are good all-around choices, he noted that they are neither experts at yorker delivery or keeping a steady tight line in the last overs. In addition to Jasprit Bumrah, Pathan recommended that India add Arshdeep Singh, a left-arm pacer.
“I will honour the statements I made before to the Asia Cup commencing. Since you might need a second fast bowler in a pinch, I would want to watch Arshdeep play alongside (Jasprit) Bumrah. “Is Hardik’s (Pandya) strength bowling six yorkers when the ball gets wet and you’re under pressure, or can Shivam Dube bowl those yorkers consistently?” Irfan Pathan had previously stated on Sony Sports.
However, Dube surprised the veteran with his outstanding bowling performance, dispelling any worries. The rest of the batting lineup contributed with quick runs before losing steam, but Sahibzada led the way with a consistent 58 off 45 balls.
Kuldeep Yadav, one of India’s spinners, continued his penchant for making breakthroughs in the middle overs by returning figures of 1 for 31. Varun Chakravarthy was efficient, giving up just 25 runs despite going wicketless in his four overs. However, Bumrah had a rare bad day. In his four overs, the pace spearhead let up 45 runs because to his struggles.
India
