DUBAI:

Defending champions India overpowered Pakistan by seven wickets in a politically-charged Asia Cup Group A fixture in Dubai on Sunday, as fans thronged the stadium despite weeks of boycott calls in India and simmering tensions between the two neighbours.

Pakistan's batting once again faltered badly, collapsing to 127 for nine in their allotted overs, before skipper Suryakumar Yadav's unbeaten 47 guided India to a comfortable victory with 25 balls to spare. The result booked India's place in the Super Four stage of the tournament.

Kuldeep Yadav spearheaded India's attack with figures of 3-18, ably supported by fellow spinner Axar Patel, who took 2-18. Hardik Pandya and Jasprit Bumrah struck early blows, dismissing openers Saim Ayub and Mohammad Haris cheaply.

Pakistan never recove

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