The 14th edition of the Asia Cup was held in the United Arab Emirates from September 15 to 28,
2018, and marked a return to the 50-over format. It was hosted jointly in Dubai and Abu Dhabi,
featuring six teams: India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, and Hong Kong (who
qualified through the Asia Cup Qualifier). The tournament delivered high-stakes rivalries, dramatic
finishes, and the crowning of India as champions for a record seventh time.
Format:
The teams were divided into two groups. The top two from each group advanced to the Super Four,
where the best two progressed to the final. All matches were played as day-night fixtures.
Group A: India, Pakistan, Hong Kong
Group B: Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan
Key Highlights:
1. India’s Title Defense:
India, led by stand-in captain Rohit Sharma (in place of Virat Kohli), went unbeaten throughout the
tournament. They outplayed Pakistan in both group and Super Four stages and clinched the final in
a last-ball thriller against Bangladesh. India’s top order dominated, with Shikhar Dhawan and Rohit
in sublime form.2. Bangladesh’s Gritty Run:
Bangladesh reached their third Asia Cup final despite being plagued by injuries. Their campaign was
highlighted by Mushfiqur Rahim’s brilliant 144 against Sri Lanka and Mustafizur Rahman’s
death-over mastery. In the final, a depleted Bangladesh nearly pulled off a remarkable win against
India.
3. Afghanistan’s Rise:
Afghanistan continued their steady ascent in world cricket. They defeated Sri Lanka and
Bangladesh in the group stage and tied a thrilling match with India in the Super Four. Rashid Khan,
Mohammad Shahzad, and Mohammad Nabi stood out, gaining global recognition.
4. Pakistan’s Inconsistencies:
Despite entering as a strong contender, Pakistan disappointed. Their batting collapsed in key
games, and the bowling failed to control strong Indian and Bangladeshi batting lineups. They failed
to qualify for the final after losing to both India and Bangladesh in the Super Four.
5. Sri Lanka’s Early Exit:
Sri Lanka suffered a shock group-stage exit after defeats to Bangladesh and Afghanistan. The team
struggled with poor batting displays and couldn’t adapt to UAE conditions.
Final Match Recap:
– Final: India vs Bangladesh
– Venue: Dubai International Stadium
– Bangladesh: 222 all out (48.3 overs)
– India: 223/7 (50 overs)
– Result: India won by 3 wickets (on the last ball)Player of the Final: Litton Das (Bangladesh) – 121 runs
Player of the Tournament: Shikhar Dhawan (342 runs)
Statistical Leaders:
– Most Runs: Shikhar Dhawan (India) – 342 runs
– Most Wickets: Rashid Khan (Afghanistan) – 10 wickets
– Highest Individual Score: Mushfiqur Rahim – 144 vs Sri Lanka
– Best Bowling: Rashid Khan – 3/46 vs Bangladesh
Significance:
Asia Cup 2018 highlighted the growing competitiveness in Asian cricket. Afghanistan’s emergence
as a serious ODI force and Bangladesh’s consistency in reaching finals brought new dimensions to
the tournament. India’s calm execution under pressure and squad depth showcased their ODI
dominance.
Memorable Moments:
– Hong Kong’s spirited performance, nearly defending 174 against India.
– The India-Afghanistan tie, where both teams displayed resilience and sportsmanship.
– Bangladesh’s opening partnership of 120 in the final despite a fragile middle order.
Key Points:
Asia Cup 2018 delivered on all fronts-thrilling contests, breakout performances, and high drama. It
affirmed India’s regional supremacy, underlined Afghanistan’s growth, and celebrated Bangladesh’s
resilience. With balanced teams and dramatic finishes, this edition remains one of the most
memorable in modern Asia Cup history.