Cricket legend Wasim Akram believes Pakistan has the potential to challenge defending champions India in Sunday’s Asia Cup showdown, marking the first clash between the arch-rivals since recent tensions between the two nations.
The much-anticipated fixture has already gripped fans worldwide. India, dominant in 18 of their last 21 T20s and coming off a crushing nine-wicket win over the UAE, enter as firm favorites. However, Pakistan, buoyed by their recent tri-series victory against Afghanistan and the UAE, could deliver an upset.
Akram predicted a competitive contest, noting that while India’s lineup looks formidable, Pakistan carries momentum and growing confidence. He emphasized patience for captain Salman Agha’s young side under coach Mike Hesson.
The former pacer expressed concerns over Mohammad Haris’ batting slot and Pakistan’s bowling variety but lauded India’s attack led by Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakravarthy, and Jasprit Bumrah, calling them a formidable challenge in any conditions.
With expectations soaring, fans anticipate a nail-biting battle that could go down to the last over.
Pakistan vs India Asia Cup Squads
Pakistan: Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Fakhar Zaman, Mohammad Haris (wk), Salman Agha (c), Hasan Nawaz, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf, Abrar Ahmed, Sufiyan Muqeem.
India: Abhishek Sharma, Shubman Gill, Suryakumar Yadav (c), Sanju Samson (wk), Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Jasprit Bumrah, Varun Chakravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav.
Check out Pakistan vs India Asia Cup 2025: Schedule, Squads & Live Streaming
