DUBAI: Cricket fans across the globe are in for a blockbuster as arch-rivals India and Pakistan clash in the grand finale of the Asia Cup 2025 T20 tournament today at the iconic Dubai International Stadium.
The cricketing world is holding its breath for what promises to be one of the most intense and unforgettable showdowns in the tournament’s 41-year history.
In an electrifying twist, this will be the first-ever Asia Cup final between India and Pakistan a long-awaited moment that has fans on both sides of the border roaring with anticipation. The stakes are sky-high, the pressure is mounting, and the atmosphere in Dubai is nothing short of electric.
The Indian team is reportedly considering last-minute changes. Jasprit Bumrah and Shivam Dube are expected to return, possibly replacing Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana.
However, uncertainty surrounds Hardik Pandya’s fitness after a hamstring issue in the last match. While his availability remains unclear, Indian media suggests he may still play.
Pakistan, fresh off a strong campaign, enters the final with momentum and determination. Having lost only to India in the group stage, the team is hungry for revenge.
Captain Salman Ali Agha expressed confidence ahead of the match:
“We came to win this trophy, and we’re ready to give our best in the final.”
Pakistan has a stronger record in finals against India, with three wins out of five previous tournament deciders.
Adding to the drama, Captain Salman Ali Agha, head coach Mike Hesson, and senior player Faheem Ashraf were seen inspecting the Dubai pitch early Sunday morning. Their presence has sparked fresh speculation about Pakistan’s final line-up and tactical approach for the match.
To boost national spirit, the Sindh government will host live screenings in six major cities, including Karachi, Hyderabad, and Larkana, bringing fans together to watch the big game.
Pakistan’s Squad XI:
- Sahibzada Farhan
- Fakhar Zaman,
- Saim Ayub,
- Salman Ali Agha (C),
- Hussain Talat,
- Mohammad Haris,
- Mohammad Nawaz,
- Faheem Ashraf,
- Abrar Ahmed,
- Shaheen Afridi,
- Haris Rauf.
India Squad XI:
- Rohit Sharma (C)
- Shubman Gill
- Virat Kohli
- Suryakumar Yadav
- Shivam Dube (subject to final confirmation)
- Hardik Pandya (fitness-dependent)
- Rishabh Pant (WK)
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Jasprit Bumrah
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Mohammed Siraj
Likely to be benched:
Arshdeep Singh
Harshit Rana