Shaheen Afridi’s new-ball swing will test Shubman Gill’s technique right from the start
Kuldeep Yadav’s precision spin will challenge Pakistan’s middle order, especially captain Salman Agha
Abrar Ahmed’s tight spin bowling could stifle India’s middle-order duo, Sanju Samson and Tilak Varma
India and Pakistan meet for the second time in just eight days in the Super Four stage of Asia Cup 2025 at Dubai International Stadium on Sunday, September 21. The rivalry is charged with history and recent controversy, making this clash one of the most eagerly anticipated sporting events in the cricket calendar. Following India’s seven-wicket win in their previous encounter, this game promises intense battles both on and off the field.
India Vs Pakistan, Asia Cup 2025 Super Four: Key Player Battles
Shaheen Afridi vs Shubman Gill
Pakistan’s left-arm pacer Shaheen Afridi will look to exploit Shubman Gill’s vulnerabilities against swing bowling. Afridi’s ability to move the ball early and with pace makes him a serious threat to India’s opener. Gill’s composure and technique in facing Afridi will be crucial for India’s strong start.
Abrar Ahmed vs Sanju Samson and Tilak Varma
On a slow Dubai track, Abrar Ahmed’s economical and probing spin bowling will test India’s middle order. Samson and Tilak Varma recently showed signs of struggle against spin bowling by Oman, making this battle significant. Abrar’s ability to maintain pressure with dot balls could keep India’s scoring rate in check
Kuldeep Yadav vs Pakistan Middle-Order
Kuldeep Yadav has been outstanding in the tournament, taking eight wickets at an impressive average. His prior spells against Pakistan disrupted their middle order, particularly dismissing captain Salman Agha twice in T20 internationals. Handling Kuldeep’s variations will be vital for Pakistan’s chances.
The India Vs Pakistan, Asia Cup 2025 Super 4 match will be live-streamed on the SonyLIV app and website in India.
India Vs Pakistan, Asia Cup 2025 Super Four: Squads
India Squad: Abhishek Sharma, Shubman Gill, Suryakumar Yadav (captain), Sanju Samson (wicketkeeper), Tilak Varma, Shivam Dube, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Jitesh Sharma, Rinku Singh, Varun Chakarvarthy
Pakistan Squad: Saim Ayub, Sahibzada Farhan, Mohammad Haris (wicketkeeper), Fakhar Zaman, Salman Agha (captain), Khushdil Shah, Hasan Nawaz, Mohammad Nawaz, Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, Abrar Ahmed, Hussain Talat, Faheem Ashraf, Hasan Ali, Mohammad Wasim Jr