The Asia Cup 2025 is set to witness a high-voltage clash between India and Pakistan on September 14 (Sunday) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, starting at 8 PM IST. Cricket fans worldwide eagerly await this epic showdown.
The victorious team will move closer to securing a spot in the Super Four stage. Fans have their eyes on a few key players who can influence the match's outcome and become game-changers for their respective teams. Let's take a look at 5 players from each team who could make the difference...
Abhishek Sharma:
Young opener Abhishek Sharma has recently dazzled fans with his explosive batting in T20 cricket. His aggressive style during the powerplay can put immense pressure on Pakistan’s bowling attack. In his 18 T20 international matches, Abhishek boasts a strike rate of 193.49. His duel with Shaheen Afridi could shape the game.
Suryakumar Yadav:
Known as India's 'Mr. 360', Suryakumar Yadav shoulders a big responsibility in this match. His offensive batting can dismantle the opposition's bowling attack. His performance in the middle overs will be India's greatest strength.
Click here:
Asia Cup 2025 Points Table
Kuldeep Yadav:
The unorthodox spinner could prove crucial in the middle overs against Pakistani batsmen. After sitting out the recent Test series against England, Kuldeep made an impact in the Asia Cup against UAE, claiming four wickets.
Source: aajtak
Jasprit Bumrah:
'Boom Boom' Bumrah's remarkable yorkers and precise line-length deliveries are sure to trouble Pakistani batsmen. He will likely deliver at least two overs in the powerplay and possibly bowl one or two overs during the death overs. Bumrah aims to dismiss in-form batsmen like Sam Ayub and Mohammad Haris early.
Hardik Pandya:
The presence of this all-rounder adds new energy and excitement to the Indian team. Hardik aims to excel in both batting and bowling in this match. He has previously turned matches in India’s favor with his outstanding performances against Pakistan.
Shaheen Afridi:
With the new ball, this left-arm fast bowler poses the biggest threat to India. His main goal will be to quickly unsettle India's openers. Abhishek Sharma and Shubman Gill must play cautiously against him, although Gill has previously dominated Afridi during World Cup 2023.
Click here: Full Schedule of Asia Cup 2025
Sam Ayub:
This opening batsman from Pakistan could surprise Indian bowlers during the powerplay. Ayub is known for his aggressive cricket style. Although he failed to score against Oman, he compensated with his spin bowling prowess, dismissing both openers.
Mohammad Haris:
After a shaky start against Oman, it was wicketkeeper-batsman Mohammad Haris who steered the Pakistani team out of trouble by scoring a brisk 66 runs. His batting in the middle overs can quickly elevate Pakistan’s total.
Source: aajtak
Salman Ali Agha:
The experienced batsman and captain Salman Agha aims to play the finisher's role in this match. Although he did not perform spectacularly in the previous game, he seeks to regain form in this crucial encounter. Salman also adds value as a part-time spinner, providing a strategic advantage to Pakistan.
Sufiyan Muqeem:
Seen as Pakistan's x-factor at the Asia Cup, this unorthodox spinner can alter the game's course against the Indian batsmen. As Sufiyan faces India for the first time internationally, tackling his spin will be challenging for the Indian lineup.
