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The muc-awaited Asia Cup 2025 kicks off today in the United Arab Emirates, promising fans an exciting mix of nail-biting finishes and low-scoring thrillers. With the tournament being played in the T20 format, conditions in Dubai and Abu Dhabi are expected to provide a perfect stage for high-octane cricket. While every match holds importance, the spotlight is firmly on the upcoming India-Pakistan clash, scheduled for Sunday, September 14, in Dubai. This iconic rivalry continues to remain the biggest attraction of the tournament, and fans across the globe are eagerly waiting for yet another chapter in this storied contest.
India vs Pakistan – A contest beyond cricket
Whenever India and Pakistan face each other, it is much more than just a cricket match. The two sides share a long-standing rivalry that stretches beyond the boundaries of the game, and predicting the winner between them has always been a daunting task. While India enter the tournament as the number one ranked side in ICC T20I rankings, Pakistan too carry the potential to spring surprises on the big stage.
Kamran Akmal picks winner of the high-voltage clash
Amidst this anticipation, former Pakistan wicketkeeper-batter Kamran Akmal has made his prediction regarding the outcome of the blockbuster contest. Sharing his views on his YouTube channel, Akmal admitted that India appear stronger on paper but insisted that results in an India-Pakistan encounter often depend on performance on the given day. However, Akmal chose Pakistan to beat India in the upcoming battle.
“On paper, the Indian team is strong, there is no doubt about it. The Indian team is the number one team in ICC events, there is no doubt about it. But on the day of the match, whichever team plays well, that team will win. My wish is that my team wins. We want our team to perform well on that day and be successful in defeating India,” Akmal said.
Also READ: Dinesh Karthik, Harsha Bhogle predict top run-getter and highest wicket-taker in Asia Cup 2025
Big stars missing from the India-Pakistan clash
Interestingly, the marquee clash will be played without some of the biggest modern-day icons from both sides. India’s legendary duo, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, who have entertained fans for over a decade, will not feature as both retired from T20 internationals earlier this year. On the other hand, Pakistan supporters will also miss the presence of Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, who were dropped from the squad due to prolonged dips in form.
The responsibility of leading the new era now rests with Suryakumar Yadav for India and Salman Ali Agha for Pakistan. Both captains will be eager to make their mark in such a high-pressure contest, and their leadership skills will be closely watched.
Also READ: Aakash Chopra reveals his ideal India XI for the Asia Cup 2025, no place for Sanju Samson
