Key points
- “Break their aura” – Akhtar’s advice
- Pakistan must attack, take early wickets
- Confident win over Bangladesh seals final
ISLAMABAD: Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has voiced strong support for the national team following their crucial 11-run win over Bangladesh on Thursday, which booked their place in the ACC Men’s T20 Asia Cup 2025 final.
For the first time in the tournament’s 41-year history, India and Pakistan will face off in the final. Speaking to a local sports platform, Akhtar urged the team to carry their fearless mindset from the Bangladesh match into Sunday’s high-pressure clash.
“Step out of that mindset, break their aura, and go in with the same attitude you had against Bangladesh—take them on, come at us, we’ll see. That’s the attitude you need,” said Akhtar.
He stressed the importance of attacking cricket, stating, “We don’t just have to complete 20 overs, we have to take wickets… the moment Abhishek gets out within the first two overs—mark my words—they’ll be in real trouble.”
Akhtar also advised the players not to be overawed by India’s reputation.
Best team
“Don’t think that you are the best team, but remember that you are the best combination and the best players on the field… Ask yourself: what is my best? Whatever that is, give it out there.”
Confident in Pakistan’s chances, he added, “Pakistan has the ability to put up big scores and also the ability to bowl the opposition out — trust me, take my word for it… I feel 100 per cent sure that Pakistan is going to nail it.”
Pakistan posted 135/8 against Bangladesh, led by Mohammad Haris (31 off 23), with support from Nawaz (25) and Shaheen Afridi (19). The bowlers then defended the total well, with Shaheen, Rauf, and Ayub taking two wickets each, setting the stage for a historic final on Sunday.
