Asia Cup 2025 Best XI: Top performers of the tournament

Published - 29 Sept 2025, 17:39 IST | Updated - 29 Sept 2025, 17:39 IST

The 17th edition of the Asia Cup came to an exciting end with India lifting the trophy for a record ninth time, defeating Pakistan in the final at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Sunday, September 28. The tournament once again lived up to its billing, producing thrilling encounters, standout performances, and plenty of memorable moments. Every team had its stars, but some players rose above the rest to make their mark on the continental stage. Let us take a look at the Best XI of Asia Cup 2025 Based on overall impact.

India’s young opener Abhishek Sharma had a dream tournament, walking away with the Player of the Tournament award. The left-hander looked in sublime touch throughout, scoring 314 runs in seven innings, including three consecutive half-centuries. His aggressive intent in the powerplay gave India the perfect start, while his composure in pressure situations marked him as one of the brightest young batting talents in world cricket today.

Sri Lanka’s dependable opener Pathum Nissanka, who amassed 261 runs including a classy century, will join him at the top. Despite Sri Lanka falling short of the finals, Nissanka’s contributions with the bat were vital in keeping his team competitive. His ability to anchor the innings while rotating strike efficiently made him stand out among the top-order batters.

At No. 3, Pakistan’s Sahibzada Farhan earns his place after accumulating 217 runs, including two crucial fifties. Farhan’s knocks often came when Pakistan were under pressure, and his ability to steady the innings was key in guiding his side to the final. His temperament and shot selection provided balance to Pakistan’s top order.

Leading the best XI is India’s captain Suryakumar Yadav. While he scored only 72 runs in the tournament, his leadership was nothing short of inspirational. Under his captaincy, India went unbeaten and showed tactical brilliance, particularly in high-pressure matches against Pakistan and Sri Lanka. His field placements, bowling rotations, and ability to keep the dressing room calm showed his immense value even as he fell short with the bat.

The youngster Tilak Varma was one of the tournament’s revelations. His match-winning, unbeaten 69 in the final against Pakistan was a career-defining knock that sealed the trophy for India. Across the event, he scored 213 runs in six innings, showing maturity well beyond his years. His clean hitting under pressure ensured India always had a dependable middle overs batter they could rely on.

At No. 5 comes Sanju Samson, who played the unusual role of a middle-order batter for India. The wicketkeeper contributed 132 runs with the bat, but his agility behind the stumps was equally crucial. Samson’s ability to adapt to a new batting role showed his versatility, and his partnerships in the middle overs gave India some much-needed batting depth.

The all-rounder’s slot is occupied by Afghanistan’s star Mohammad Nabi. Though his side exited in the group stage, Nabi made headlines with a powerful 108 runs across the tournament, including a breathtaking over where he smashed five sixes off Sri Lanka’s Dunith Wellalage. His experience was invaluable for Afghanistan, and he once again showed why he is considered one of Asia’s finest all-rounders.

The bowling attack of the Best XI has both firepower and guile. Pakistan’s spearhead Shaheen Afridi led from the front, claiming 10 wickets in the tournament. His hostile spells in the Super Four stage were critical in Pakistan’s march to the final. Afridi’s ability to swing the new ball and strike early made him the standout pacer.

India’s spin wizard Kuldeep Yadav finished as the leading wicket-taker of the Asia Cup, bagging 17 wickets at a jaw-dropping average of 9.29. His variations bamboozled batters throughout, and he deservedly won the Most Valuable Player award. Kuldeep was the backbone of India’s middle-over dominance.

Kuldeep was supported by mystery spinner Varun Chakaravarthy, who might not have picked many wickets but consistently choked opposition scoring. His economy rate in pressure overs was priceless for India, often forcing batters into mistakes against other bowlers.

Bangladesh’s Mustafizur Rahman completes the attack with nine wickets to his name. His clever slower balls and experience in crunch situations kept opponents guessing. The left-arm pacer’s consistency gave Bangladesh some much-needed breakthroughs and stability in their bowling attack.

The 12th man spot goes to UAE’s Junaid Siddique, who was one of the tournament’s biggest surprise packages. The pacer picked nine wickets in just three matches and impressed everyone with his accuracy and control against top-class opposition. His performances were a reminder of the talent emerging from associate nations.