LAHORE – The cricketing world braces itself for yet another electrifying clash today (Sunday) as Pakistan and India renew their storied rivalry in the ACC Men’s T20 Asia Cup 2025 Super Four stage in Dubai. But this time, for Pakistan, it is not just about runs and wickets, it is about reclaiming pride, silencing critics, and responding to adversity with resilience.
The last meeting between these two cricketing giants, on September 14, left a sour taste. India may have secured a seven-wicket win, but it was the infamous “handshake row” that dominated headlines. Match referee Andy Pycroft’s directive, which effectively barred the customary pre- and post-match handshake, triggered a storm. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) protested vigorously, questioning not just Pycroft’s judgment but also the spirit in which the game was conducted. An eventual apology came, but the damage had been done, Pakistan felt disrespected, and the incident only added more fuel to today’s fire.
Yet, as Pakistan enter this encounter, the focus must firmly return to cricket. The Men in Green earned their place in the Super Fours by brushing aside hosts UAE and now face the ultimate challenge of turning the tables on India. Sources close to the team suggest Pakistan are considering some changes in the squad, with management keen to deploy every ounce of skill and strategy to ensure victory.
This is a pivotal moment. Pakistan’s batting has looked shaky at times, with reliance on individual brilliance rather than collective effort. For this clash, the expectation is that every individual must contribute, whether it’s the explosive Fakhar Zaman at the top, the composure of Sahibzada Farhan, or the finishing touch of Mohammad Nawaz. Captain Salman Ali Agha, who has consistently stressed calmness under pressure, will have to lead from the front. On the bowling front, Pakistan’s arsenal remains formidable. Shaheen Afridi’s fiery pace, Abrar Ahmed’s mystery spin, and Haris Rauf’s aggression are weapons that can unsettle even India’s powerful batting line-up. The key lies in discipline, minimizing extras and capitalizing on every half-chance.
India, unbeaten so far in the tournament, may appear favourites on paper, but cricket’s greatest rivalry has never been about predictions. It is about moments, one searing yorker, one spectacular catch, or one audacious six can turn the tide. And Pakistan know that better than anyone.
The Asia Cup is more than preparation for the upcoming T20 World Cup; it is about bragging rights, national pride, and writing new chapters in cricket’s fiercest saga. With tempers cooled after the handshake saga, Pakistan must now channel their emotions into performance. A win today will not only level the score but also inject immense confidence into the side ahead of potential bigger battles.For Pakistan, this is more than a cricket match, it is an opportunity for redemption. And come Sunday night, the nation will hope their heroes rise to the occasion.
SQUADS (POSSIBLE)
PAKISTAN: Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Fakhar Zaman, Salman Agha (capt), Hasan Nawaz, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Haris (wk), Mohammad Nawaz, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf, Abrar Ahmed.
INDIA: Abhishek Sharma, Shubman Gill, Suryakumar Yadav (capt), Tilak Varma, Sanju Samson (wk), Shivam Dube, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel/Harshit Rana/Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Varun Chakravarthy.
14th Match
Pakistan vs India
Match starts at 7:30 PM
