DUBAI: Pakistan is all set for an intense Super Four clash against arch-rivals India at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Sunday.
With high stakes, the match promises to be another thrilling chapter in the ongoing Asia Cup 2025.
In a shift from their previous strategy, Head Coach Mike Hesson and captain Salman Ali Agha have decided to take a pace-heavy approach to counter India’s formidable batting lineup, opting for fast bowlers over spinners.
Pakistan, who were defeated by India in their Group A match last Sunday by seven wickets, will be making two changes from the side that triumphed over the United Arab Emirates in the final group match.
Hassan Nawaz and Khushdil Shah
Reports suggest that young batter Hassan Nawaz and Khushdil Shah are both expected to be left out for this encounter.
Faheem Ashraf is likely to make a return to the team, while Hussain Talat could make his first appearance in the 2025 Asia Cup.
The team management has shortlisted 12 players for the crucial Super Four match. Despite being included in the squad for the UAE match, Khushdil Shah is unlikely to feature in the final XI against India.
Pakistan’s Possible Playing XI
Saim Ayub, Sahibzada Farhan, Fakhar Zaman, Salman Ali Agha (captain), Mohammad Nawaz, Hussain Talat, Faheem Ashraf, Mohammad Haris (wicketkeeper), Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf, Abrar Ahmed.
On Saturday, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi visited the team during their practice session at the Dubai Sports City Academy.
Meanwhile, despite calls for an investigation into last week’s handshake controversy, Andy Pycroft will continue his role as the match referee for the Dubai leg of the tournament.
