Pakistan marched into the Asia Cup 2025 Super Four after a nervy win over the UAE in Dubai. Their batting faltered again, but the bowlers ensured a 41-run victory that kept their campaign alive. Next up, Pakistan will face India in a high-stakes clash on Sunday.
Fakhar, Shaheen Lift Pakistan After Collapse
Pakistan’s innings stumbled once more. Reduced to 93 for 6 by the 15th over, they looked in trouble. Fakhar Zaman held firm with a brisk 50 off 36 balls, while Shaheen Afridi’s late fireworks—29* from 14—gave them momentum. Pakistan eventually finished on 146 for 9, a score that looked light but proved defendable.
Bowlers Deliver the Knockout Blow
Pakistan’s attack made sure the modest total was enough. Abrar Ahmed spun through the middle overs with figures of 2 for 13. Shaheen Afridi (2 for 16) and Haris Rauf (2 for 19) kept the pressure on from the other end. UAE folded for 105 in 17.4 overs, with Rahul Chopra’s 35 the only real resistance.
Salman Agha Calls for Better Middle-Order
Captain Salman Ali Agha admitted Pakistan cannot rely on cameos alone.
“We got the job done but we still need to improve our batting in the middle order. That’s been a concern and something we need to work on. Apart from that, we did a good job. We haven’t batted at our best yet…we’re still just finding our way to 150. If we bat well in the middle overs, we can push it to 170 no matter the opposition. Shaheen’s batting has improved a lot—he’s already great with the ball. Saim is someone who has been bringing us back into games and I hope he can continue like this till the end.”
Heated India Clash on the Horizon
Pakistan now turn their attention to the India vs Pakistan Super Four match at Asia Cup 2025, set for Sunday in Dubai. Their last meeting ended in a seven-wicket win for India and sparked controversy over the handshake dispute and Pakistan’s protest against match referee Andy Pycroft.
Despite the drama, Salman Agha remained upbeat:
“We’re ready for any challenge and if we keep playing the way we have over the last four months, we’ll be good against any side.”
The stage is set for another intense India–Pakistan battle, where both cricket and emotions will be on full display.
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