The stage is set for the Asia Cup 2025 final between India and Pakistan on September 28 at the Dubai International Stadium. While India enters the contest as the unbeaten team of the tournament, Pakistan booked their spot in the final after a hard-fought win over Bangladesh. Ahead of this high-voltage clash, former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has shared his “master plan” for Pakistan to overcome India’s dominance.
Akhtar’s Advice: Dismiss Abhishek Early
Shoaib Akhtar, famously known as the Rawalpindi Express, believes Pakistan must break India’s rhythm by targeting young opener Abhishek Sharma. The left-hander has been in sensational form throughout the tournament, giving India explosive starts at the top.
“Remember my words—if Abhishek Sharma gets out in the first two overs, India will struggle. Pakistan must not allow him to settle because his quick runs are setting the tone for India’s big totals,” Akhtar said on a TV program.
India’s Dominance Over Pakistan So Far
India and Pakistan have already met twice in the ongoing tournament, and on both occasions India emerged victorious. India defeated Pakistan by 7 wickets in the group stage and followed it up with another 6-wicket win in the Super Four clash.
In fact, the Super Four game saw tempers flare when Pakistan pace duo Haris Rauf and Shaheen Afridi got into a heated exchange with Abhishek and his partner Shubman Gill. The young Indian opener responded in style, smashing a rapid 74 off 35 balls, silencing the critics and powering India to a dominant win.
The 23-year-old opener has been the biggest positive for India in this Asia Cup. In four matches so far, he has scored 173 runs at a strike rate of 208.43, including two fifties in the Super Four stage—74 against Pakistan and 75 against Bangladesh. His fearless batting has given India the early momentum, something Pakistan will look to stop in the final.
Akhtar on Mentality and Gambhir
Akhtar also urged the Pakistan team to change their mindset and not be overawed by India’s reputation. “Forget India’s dominance. Just go and play with the intent you showed against Bangladesh. Don’t think about bowling 20 overs—think about taking wickets,” he said.
He also mentioned Indian head coach Gautam Gambhir, saying, “I know Gautam. He will tell his players to give their absolute best against Pakistan. And believe me, Pakistan might not always play their best cricket, but when they reach the final, they can turn into a completely different team.”
With India unbeaten and Pakistan motivated after securing a hard-fought place in the final, fans can expect another thrilling chapter in the historic rivalry. All eyes will be on whether Pakistan can execute Akhtar’s advice and dismiss Abhishek Sharma early—or if the young Indian opener once again rises to the occasion on the biggest stage.
