Pakistan is prepared to face India in a thrilling match of Asia Cup 2025 in Dubai today (Sunday)
A cricket match between India and Pakistan is always a major event, but feelings will be even more intense in today’s Asia Cup 2025 showdown between the nuclear-capable rivals, who experienced a four-day military confrontation earlier this year.
Even prior to the May conflicts, which almost evolved into an outright war, bilateral cricket relations had been halted. The fierce competitors now face off exclusively in multi-team tournaments.
Political relations have worsened since the confrontations, with numerous former Indian players urging the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to avoid what will be the initial meeting between the teams since the recent conflicts.
Though the risk of a boycott has passed, tensions could arise as India captain Suryakumar Yadav and his Pakistani counterpart Salman Agha dismiss any notion of reducing aggression in the highly-anticipated Group A match.
India, the current 20-overs world champions, are strong contenders to defend their Asia Cup title and are committed to ensuring that geopolitics does not hinder their efforts.
“When we arrive to play, I believe the players concentrate on playing cricket.” I honestly believe they only have cricket in mind, and that’s our primary focus.
Pakistan coach Mike Hesson aims for his team to maintain focus, even though he understands the match’s importance.
