New Delhi, Sept 25: Despite making it to the Asia Cup 2025 final, concerns loom over Team India’s fielding performance. A comprehensive 41-run victory over Bangladesh in the Super Four stage may have secured their spot in the final, but the team’s sloppy fielding could prove costly if not addressed ahead of the big game.
Match Recap: India vs Bangladesh
In the Super Four clash held on Wednesday, India batted first and posted a total of 168 runs. In response, Bangladesh crumbled for 127 runs, handing India a comfortable win and a place in the tournament’s final. With this, Suryakumar Yadav’s men continue their unbeaten run, having defeated Pakistan and Bangladesh in the Super Four after a clean sweep in the group stage.
Fielding Becoming a Worrying Trend
However, all is not rosy. Despite strong performances with the bat and ball, India’s fielding has been below par throughout the tournament. Against Bangladesh alone, Indian fielders dropped five catches — a lapse that could have shifted the game’s momentum under tighter circumstances.
Similar fielding issues were observed in the match against Pakistan as well. In fact, India has dropped the most catches (12) in the tournament so far — a stat that paints a concerning picture heading into the final.
As the old saying in cricket goes: “Catches win matches.” And if India wants to lift the trophy, fielding will need to drastically improve in the final.
Players Under the Spotlight
In the Bangladesh match, Abhishek Sharma (75) and Shubman Gill (29) gave India a solid start, but the middle order couldn’t capitalise on it. India finished at 168/6 after 20 overs — a decent total, but not unassailable.
Hardik Pandya chipped in with a handy 38 off 29 balls, while Axar Patel added a fighting 10 off 15 balls. The bowlers delivered a strong performance, but fielding missteps let a few opportunities slip.
The Road Ahead
India will play its final Super Four game against Sri Lanka on September 26, which could be an opportunity to rest key players and fine-tune the squad. The final is scheduled for September 28, and the winner of the Pakistan vs Bangladesh match will join India in the championship clash.
As Team India chases another Asia Cup title, fans will be hoping the players tighten up their fielding — because in high-pressure finals, every run and every catch counts.
Final Thought
India has played like a champion team this season, but perfection lies in the details. And in tournaments like the Asia Cup, those details — especially in fielding — can make all the difference between lifting the trophy or watching it slip away.