The much-anticipated Asia Cup 2025 final between Pakistan and India will be played today, with the Pakistan team management and captain finalizing their strategy and motivating players ahead of the blockbuster contest.
Sources confirmed that no major changes are expected in the playing XI as the squad prepares to take the field with a winning combination.
Playing XI unlikely to change
According to team management, Pakistan’s lineup is expected to remain unchanged for the final. All players are reported to be fully fit, with management dismissing Indian media propaganda suggesting injury concerns around fast bowler Haris Rauf.
Officials confirmed that Rauf is fit and available, while any last-minute changes could only be decided at the toss.
Strategy meeting: Aggression and confidence
In a team meeting, the captain and management encouraged players to remain focused and play with confidence.
Head coach and skipper gave specific instructions to openers Sahibzada Farhan and Fakhar Zaman, urging them to attack the Indian bowlers from the start. Meanwhile, Shaheen Shah Afridi was told to target the Indian openers in the very first over.
“You are the best player, that’s why you are in the final,” the management reportedly told the squad, reinforcing their confidence.
Special plans for bowlers
Alongside Afridi, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Nawaz, and Abrar Ahmed were given individual plans to restrict the Indian batting lineup. The strategy emphasized sharp fielding and disciplined bowling as key factors to securing victory.
“If the fielding is good, no one can take the match away from us,” the management told the players.
Batting targets set
Team management also laid out batting goals for different scenarios. If Pakistan bats first, the players have been instructed to push the score beyond 180 runs to create pressure on India.
The meeting highlighted that aggressive batting and controlled bowling would be central to Pakistan’s chances in the historic final.
Determined to win
Sources said the captain and management are determined to clinch the title, reminding players of their responsibility and the nation’s expectations. With a full-strength squad and clearly defined strategy, Pakistan will step onto the field today with high hopes of overcoming their arch-rivals.
