Bangladesh’s dream halted in Super Over: Pakistan Shaheens crowned Asia Cup Rising Stars champions

Staff Report: PNN

The final in Doha seemed like a fairy tale. After losing seven wickets for just 53 runs, Bangladesh’s last two batsmen, Ripon Mondal and Abdul Gaffar Sakline, took the match to a Super Over—an incredible scene. However, Pakistan Shaheens ultimately prevailed, winning the Asia Cup Rising Stars for a record third time.

Chasing a target of 126, Bangladesh started promisingly, but the innings collapsed after Habibur Rahman’s dismissal. At 36 runs, only one wicket remained, and by 53 runs, six more batsmen were out. Pakistan then dominated completely.

Yet the twist came at 96 runs for nine wickets, when Ripon and Sakline’s resilient partnership added 21 runs in the final two overs. Ripon scored 11* off 11 balls, and Sakline 16* off 13. On the final ball, Bangladesh needed just one run to win, but could not achieve it in the Super Over.

Ahmed Daniyal’s over conceded just 6 runs, and Bangladesh were all out. Pakistan’s target of 7 was met by the pairing of Saad Masood and Maj Sadakat.

Earlier, Ripon Mondal had excelled with the ball, taking 3 wickets for 25 runs in 4 overs. Alongside Rakibul Hasan’s 2 wickets, Pakistan ‘A’ innings ended at 125. Contributions with the bat came from Habibur Rahman (26), Rakibul Hasan (24), and S.M. Meherb (19). Though the final partnership saved the match, it could not bring the trophy home for Bangladesh.

The final left fans with many “what ifs,” yet Ripon and Sakline’s fighting spirit, team confidence, and hunger for victory remain inspiring for the future.