The Asia Cup has produced some of the most thrilling matches in cricket history, and nothing gets the adrenaline pumping like a high-stakes run chase. Whether it’s a calm and calculated pursuit or a chaotic, last-over drama, the tournament has witnessed teams pulling off the most unforgettable run chases under immense pressure.
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In this article, we count down the Top 10 run chases in Asia Cup history — games where determination, big-hitting, and nerves of steel turned the impossible into the unforgettable.
Top 10 Run Chases in Asia Cup History
1. India vs Pakistan – 2012 (Mirpur)
- Target: 330
- India’s Score: 330/4 (47.5 overs)
- Key Performer: Virat Kohli – 183 (148)
Why It’s Iconic:
Chasing a mammoth 330, India pulled off one of the greatest run chases in Asia Cup history. Kohli’s masterful 183 remains the highest individual score in the tournament and turned a tough ask into a statement win.
2. Sri Lanka vs India – 2004 (Colombo)
- Target: 229
- SL’s Score: 231/5 (47.5 overs)
- Key Performer: Sanath Jayasuriya – 67 (77)
Why It’s Iconic:
A balanced chase that showcased Sri Lanka’s tactical depth. Jayasuriya provided a quick start, while middle-order batters ensured a composed finish against a strong Indian bowling attack.
3. Bangladesh vs India – 2012 (Mirpur)
- Target: 290
- Bangladesh’s Score: 293/5 (49.2 overs)
- Key Performer: Shakib Al Hasan – 49 (31)
Why It’s Iconic:
One of the most emotional victories for Bangladesh. Against a full-strength Indian side, Bangladesh chased down a daunting total to reach the final, with Shakib leading the charge.
4. Pakistan vs Sri Lanka – 2014 (Mirpur)
- Target: 297
- Pakistan’s Score: 296/8 (50 overs)
- Key Performer: Ahmed Shehzad – 81 (89)
Why It’s Iconic:
A hard-fought chase that came down to the last few overs. Although Pakistan narrowly missed the target, the fightback was memorable and showcased the pressure of chasing in the Asia Cup.
5. India vs Sri Lanka – 2010 (Dambulla)
- Target: 243
- India’s Score: 244/3 (44.2 overs)
- Key Performer: Gautam Gambhir – 82 (101)
Why It’s Iconic:
A classy and composed chase, where Gambhir anchored India’s innings while keeping the run rate in check. India cruised home with over 5 overs to spare.
6. Afghanistan vs Sri Lanka – 2022 (Dubai)
- Target: 106
- Afghanistan’s Score: 106/2 (10.1 overs)
- Key Performer: Hazratullah Zazai – 37 (28)
Why It’s Iconic:
The fastest successful chase in Asia Cup history, this performance announced Afghanistan’s arrival as a serious contender. Zazai’s explosive start made it a demolition job.
7. India vs Bangladesh – 2018 Final (Dubai)
- Target: 223
- India’s Score: 223/7 (50 overs)
- Key Performer: Kedar Jadhav – 23* (27) with injury
Why It’s Iconic:
A final that came down to the last ball. Jadhav, injured, hobbled to the crease and guided India to a historic title win with nerves of steel and a crucial single on the final delivery.
8. Pakistan vs India – 2014 (Mirpur)
- Target: 246
- Pakistan’s Score: 250/9 (49.4 overs)
- Key Performer: Shahid Afridi – 34* (18)
Why It’s Iconic:
Pakistan needed 10 off the last over with just one wicket in hand. Afridi smashed Ashwin for two massive sixes to pull off one of the most thrilling run chases in Asia Cup history.
9. Bangladesh vs Sri Lanka – 2018 (Dubai)
- Target: 262
- Bangladesh’s Score: 261/7 (49.3 overs)
- Key Performer: Mushfiqur Rahim – 144 (150)
Why It’s Iconic:
A career-best knock from Mushfiqur powered Bangladesh in one of their best run chases. His innings balanced aggression with responsibility, taking the game away from Sri Lanka.
10. Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan – 2022 (Sharjah)
- Target: 176
- Sri Lanka’s Score: 179/4 (19.1 overs)
- Key Performer: Kusal Mendis – 36 (19)
Why It’s Iconic:
A fast-paced T20-style chase that kept fans on edge. Mendis gave the perfect start, and SL completed a key win with powerful hitting and intent from ball one.
Asia Cup Run Chase Highlights (Snapshot)
| Match | Target | Result | Key Performer |
|---|---|---|---|
| IND vs PAK (2012) | 330 | Won by 6 wkts | Kohli – 183 |
| BAN vs IND (2012) | 290 | Won by 5 wkts | Shakib – 49 |
| IND vs BAN (2018 Final) | 223 | Won on last ball | Jadhav – 23* |
| AFG vs SL (2022) | 106 | Won in 10.1 overs | Zazai – 37 |
What Makes a Run Chase Legendary?
- Strategic Partnerships
- In-form Finishers
- Composure Under Pressure
- Explosive Middle Overs
- Calculated Risk-Taking
Conclusion
Whether it’s Kohli’s majestic 183 or Afridi’s last-over fireworks, the Asia Cup has gifted fans some of cricket’s most spine-tingling run chases. These matches show that cricket isn’t just about setting records — it’s about defying odds, seizing moments, and winning hearts.
As we look ahead to Asia Cup 2025, there’s no doubt that new legendary chases will emerge, adding fresh chapters to the tournament’s epic history.
FAQ – Run Chases in the Asia Cup!
Q1: What is the most successful run chase in Asia Cup history?
India’s chase of 330 vs Pakistan in 2012 remains the highest and most iconic.
Q2: Which Asia Cup final had the closest run chase?
India vs Bangladesh in 2018 — India won on the final ball.
Q3: Which player has the most 50+ scores while chasing in the Asia Cup
Virat Kohli holds multiple 50+ scores during successful run chases.