New Delhi: Defending champions India, led by Suryakumar Yadav, are set to face arch-rivals Pakistan in Dubai in a high-voltage Group A clash of the T20 Asia Cup. After a dominant win in their opening match, India will now look to notch up their second consecutive victory and confirm their place in the Super 4 stage.
The big question ahead of the contest remains whether India will continue with Shivam Dube in the playing XI or bring in left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh. While India enters the match as favorites, history and rivalry ensure they cannot afford to take Pakistan lightly.
India’s preparations have been strong, with the team winning 17 of their last 20 T20 internationals since lifting the ICC T20 World Cup in 2024. With a deep batting line-up till No. 8 and world-class pacer Jasprit Bumrah spearheading the attack, the team has looked formidable. Yet, Pakistan’s mix of youthful exuberance and seasoned campaigners promises to test India in every department.
The political backdrop adds extra spice. Following the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, India cut bilateral cricketing ties with Pakistan, facing them only in multilateral tournaments. This makes every Indo-Pak encounter more than just a game, with fans and players alike aware of its wider significance.
Key battles are expected across departments: Abhishek Sharma’s explosive batting in the powerplay against Pakistan’s spinners, Bumrah’s pace against Salman Agha’s batting, and Arshdeep’s possible inclusion to counter Pakistan’s aggressive top order. India’s spin options—Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakravarthy, Axar Patel, and Abhishek Sharma—will be crucial in middle overs.
Historically, India holds the edge, winning 10 of 19 Asia Cup meetings against Pakistan, while Pakistan has just two Asia Cup titles to its name. The possibility of the two sides clashing again in the Super 4s on September 21, and even the final on September 29, only heightens the anticipation.
“Our entire focus is on cricket, nothing else. The team is united, and the captain and coach will take the best decisions for India. Even those not in the XI are fully backing those who are,” said India’s batting coach Sitanshu Kotak ahead of the clash.
With pride, form, and a Super 4 berth at stake, fans can expect nothing short of a thriller when India and Pakistan lock horns on Sunday.
