Lahore: Pakistan captain Salman Agha has set expectations straight ahead of the Asia Cup 2025 final against India, scheduled for Sunday. The title-decider carries immense weight, given the historic rivalry between the two neighbours, both on and off the cricket field.
India have already handed Pakistan two defeats in this tournament — once in the group stage and again in the Super 4s — yet Salman remains firm in his belief that his side will turn the tables when it matters the most. “We will win. Our attempt is to play our best cricket. And we know that if we play our best cricket and execute our plans for 40 overs, then we can beat any team,” the Pakistan skipper asserted while speaking to reporters.
Pressure of an Indo-Pak clash
Salman admitted that both sides will feel the weight of expectations in the final. “There is a lot of pressure on Pakistan and India, and if we say that there is no pressure, then it is wrong,” he said, adding that Pakistan’s losses so far have stemmed from making more mistakes than India. “I think in the match between Pakistan and India, the team with fewer mistakes will win the game.”
The intensity of an India–Pakistan clash often extends beyond the boundary ropes, with political narratives and bragging rights adding to the hype. Salman’s comments underline the reality that even the players are not immune to the pressure.
India captain’s stance on rivalry
Meanwhile, India captain Suryakumar Yadav has downplayed the notion of a rivalry, citing India’s overwhelming head-to-head advantage over Pakistan in major tournaments. His refusal to attend the customary pre-final photoshoot with Salman also sparked conversations, but the Pakistan captain brushed it aside.
“It is completely his call, whether he wants to come or not. I can’t do anything in that,” Salman remarked, making it clear that his focus remained on the game rather than the optics.
Toss factor in focus
The ongoing Asia Cup has seen the toss play a surprising role, with 11 of the 18 matches being won by the team that won the toss. However, Salman dismissed the idea that the coin would hold significance in the final.
“I don’t think that toss has been as important in any game so far because the toss is not in your control. So, when you see it, you neither make a team nor make a strategy. I think toss is the way to start the game. And I think it will remain the same tomorrow as well,” he explained.
Instead, Salman emphasised that Pakistan’s preparation is centred on their own strengths rather than external factors. “We all got the idea that we have not done such batting in this tournament. So, it is possible that we have put our bets for the final, and God willing, the best will come out in the final,” he said.
Confidence despite odds
Though India enter the contest as favourites, having already dominated Pakistan twice in the tournament, Salman’s optimism reflects his leadership style. His belief in “executing plans for 40 overs” signals an attempt to rally his team around discipline and focus in what promises to be a nerve-wracking finale.
With both teams hungry for the title, the Asia Cup 2025 final is expected to draw millions of viewers worldwide. For players and fans alike, the outcome will not only determine the continental champion but also carry the weight of national pride.