Pakistan has locked in its playing XI for today’s high-voltage Asia Cup clash against India, sticking with the same winning combination that defeated Oman in the opening game.
A team meeting between management and captain Salman Ali Agha confirmed no changes were required after reviewing the Dubai pitch conditions. Head coach Mike Hesson and the skipper agreed to trust the current balance of the squad.
Earlier, there had been discussions of resting Shaheen Afridi or replacing Abrar Ahmed with Haris Rauf, but the management opted to back Shaheen’s experience and retain Abrar. Hesson also urged batters Sahibzada Farhan and Saim Ayub to play naturally and stay composed under pressure.
Meanwhile, the clash has sparked fresh controversy off the field. Despite India being the official host of the Asia Cup 2025, senior BCCI officials are reportedly boycotting the marquee fixture in Dubai. Indian media reports claim only one low-level representative may attend, while top officials including BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia and IPL Chairman Arun Dhumal are expected to skip the game.
With Pakistan settled and confident, and India clouded in controversy, today’s game promises drama both on and off the field.
