As the 2025 Asia Cup reaches its climax, the contributions of bowlers have been as significant as those of the batsmen. Although power-hitting has drawn attention, it’s the consistent wicket-taking performances that have often swayed matches and set the tone. Among the standout bowlers, India’s Kuldeep Yadav and Pakistan’s Haris Rauf have emerged as the top wicket-takers for their respective teams, delivering crucial breakthroughs at crucial times. As the India vs. Pakistan final approaches, here’s a closer look at the bowlers who have made the biggest impact.
Kuldeep Yadav, India’s left-arm wrist spinner, has been in remarkable form this tournament, with 13 wickets in just 6 matches. His best figures of 4/7 highlight his ability to dominate on turning tracks, bamboozling batsmen with his variations. His impressive average of 9.84 and strike rate of 9.76 underscore his effectiveness in shorter spells. His control in the middle overs has helped India put pressure on opponents, frequently leading to collapses. Kuldeep, without a five-wicket haul yet, will look to make an impact in the final. Varun Chakravarthy, India’s mystery spinner, has contributed with 5 wickets from 5 matches, while maintaining a tight economy and using deceptive deliveries. His ability to break partnerships has been invaluable, especially when paired with Kuldeep. Jasprit Bumrah, back in top form, has delivered critical spells at both ends of the innings. His 5 wickets in 4 games, including a best of 2/18, reflects the pressure he applies and the breakthroughs he triggers. Bumrah, with an economy of 7.33, remains India’s key weapon in the death overs.
Pakistan’s express pacer, Haris Rauf, has been a force in this year’s Asia Cup. Despite playing only 4 matches, he has taken 9 wickets, proving to be a strike bowler every time he bowls. His best figures of 3/33 don’t completely reflect the threat he poses, with his pace and dangerous bouncers troubling the best batsmen. His average of 12.77 and strike rate of 9.77 are similar to Kuldeep’s, which makes for an interesting comparison going into the final. Shaheen Afridi’s reputation for performing in big matches continues to grow. With 9 wickets in 6 matches, the left-arm pacer has regularly struck in the powerplay, setting the tone for Pakistan. His 3/17 remains one of the best spells in the tournament, and India’s top order will be wary of his inswingers in the final. Saim Ayub, a surprise addition to the bowling attack, has seized his opportunities with the ball. His 8 wickets in 5 innings, with a best of 3/35, have been a revelation, especially given that he’s primarily a batsman. His role as a part-time spinner has provided excellent balance to the Pakistani attack.
As the highly anticipated final between India and Pakistan approaches on September 28 in Dubai, the bowling matchups promise as much drama as the batting. The battle between Kuldeep’s spin and the pace of Haris and Shaheen will be a highlight. With the top bowlers performing at their best, the Asia Cup 2025 final may well be decided by the bowler who maintains composure.