Cricket is not just a sport in India; it's a passion that unites the nation. One of the most prestigious cricket tournaments in the region is the Asia Cup, where teams from Asia battle for supremacy. India's journey in the Asia Cup has been remarkable, showcasing their cricketing capabilities.
All the subcontinent cricketing giants are ready to fight in the 2023 Asia Cup from 30 Aug to 17 Sep 2023 in Pakistan and Sri Lanka. Let's revisit history and relive the moments when India emerged victorious in the Asia Cup.
Asia Cup History
The Asia Cup, first held in 1984, was designed to unite cricketing nations from Asia to compete in limited-overs cricket. India and other cricket giants like Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh have consistently participated in this thrilling tournament. Afghanistan has also joined the elite Asian teams in recent times.
India's Wins in Asia Cup
India have played 10 Asia Cup finals and emerged victorious on seven occasions. India’s last Asia Cup was in 2023 in Sri Lanka. Rohit Sharma led Team India to a one-sided 10-wicket win over Sri Lanka at the R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo.
| Year | Format | Host | Opponent | Winning Margin |
| 1984 | ODI | UAE | Sri Lanka (2nd place) | No final played |
| 1988 | ODI | Bangladesh | Sri Lanka | 6 wickets |
| 1990/91 | ODI | India | Sri Lanka | 7 wickets |
| 1995 | ODI | UAE | Sri Lanka | 8 wickets |
| 2010 | ODI | Sri Lanka | Sri Lanka | 81 runs |
| 2016 | T20I | Bangladesh | Bangladesh | 8 wickets |
| 2018 | ODI | UAE | Bangladesh | 3 wickets |
| 2023 | ODI | Pakistan/Sri Lanka | Sri Lanka | 10 wickets |
Also read: Asia Cup Winners and Runner-up List from 1984 to 2023
1984: The Inaugural Glory
In the first edition of the Asia Cup, held in Sharjah, UAE, India clinched the title. Led by Sunil Gavaskar, the Indian team displayed their mettle by winning three out of four matches. Their remarkable victory against Pakistan in the final league match showcased their determination to emerge as the champions of the inaugural Asia Cup.
1988: A Repeat Triumph
India continued their success by claiming their second title in the 1988 Asia Cup held in Bangladesh. Under the captaincy of Dilip Vengsarkar, the Indian team exhibited exceptional teamwork and cricketing prowess, securing their place at the top of the podium once again.
1990-91: Third Time's the Charm
The 1990-91 edition of the Asia Cup, held in India, saw the home team clinching their third title. Under the captaincy of Mohammad Azharuddin, India showcased their dominance by defeating Sri Lanka in the final, captivating the hearts of millions of cricket enthusiasts.
1995: Upholding Excellence
India's victory story continued in the 1995 Asia Cup, hosted by Sharjah. Captained by the legendary Sachin Tendulkar, the Indian team exhibited their cricketing brilliance by defeating Sri Lanka in a high-scoring final, reaffirming their position as a cricketing powerhouse.
Also read: Most Wickets in Asia Cup 2023
2010: A Decade of Dominance
After a gap of 15 years, India added another feather to their cap by clinching the 2010 Asia Cup in Sri Lanka. With the likes of Virat Kohli and Suresh Raina, the Indian team displayed outstanding performances throughout the tournament, cementing their status as formidable contenders.
2016: Taming Tigers Once More
The 2016 Asia Cup in Bangladesh was the first to be played in the T20I format. It witnessed India's exceptional cricketing prowess yet again. Under the captaincy of MS Dhoni, India triumphed over Bangladesh in a thrilling final, showcasing their ability to shine under pressure.
2018: Win in Desert
In the Asia ODI Cup in 2018 hosted by UAE, India displayed their resilience. India defeated Bangladesh in an enthralling final, emerging as champions for the seventh time and first under Rohit Sharma's leadership.
2018: The Latest Glory
In the most recent edition of the Asia Cup 2023, hosted in the Pakistan and Sri Lanka, India displayed their cricketing brilliance. Rohit Sharma led India defeated Sri Lanka in the final, emerging as champions for the eight time.
Also read: India Squad for Asia Cup 2023
Asia Cup Success in 2023
India's journey in the Asia Cup has been one of triumphs and cricketing excellence. The Asia Cup holds a special place in the hearts of Indian fans, and the numerous victories are a testament to the talent, dedication, and teamwork displayed by Indian cricketers over the years. Team India added another chapter to their legacy of rich cricket history in 2023.
FAQs
How many times has India won the Asia Cup?
India has won the Asia Cup eight times (1984, 1988, 1990/91, 1995, 2010, 2016, 2018 and 2023). They also finished runners-up in 1997, 2004, and 2008.
How many times has Pakistan won the Asia Cup?
Pakistan has won the Asia Cup 2 times (2000 and 2012). They also finished runners-up in 1986 and 2014.
How many times has Virat Kohli won the Asia Cup?
Virat Kohli has won the Asia Cup 2 times - in 2010 (ODI) and 2016 (T20I). He was rested during India’s 2018 Asia Cup title win.
Which captain won the most Asia Cup matches?
MS Dhoni has captained India in 19 Asia Cup matches, out of which he has won 14, lost four, and tied 1. 5 of these wins are in the T20I format.
Who was the first Indian captain to win the Asia Cup?
Sunil Gavaskar was the first Indian captain to win the Asia Cup in 1984. The tournament was played between India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka in the UAE. India won both its matches.
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