As Pakistan gear up for their blockbuster Asia Cup 2025 Group A clash against India, legendary pacer Wasim Akram has sent out a reminder to Babar Azam’s young brigade: focus on the trophy, not just the rivalry.
Speaking ahead of Sunday’s high-octane match at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Akram underlined that beating India is important, but not the ultimate goal.
“Pakistan should not just aim to beat India; the goal should be to win the Asia Cup,” Akram said. “Even if you lose to a big team, stand up and play well in the tournament.”
‘Enjoy the Moment, Handle the Pressure’
The former captain also urged the players to enjoy the contest despite the overwhelming hype surrounding the fixture.
“Enjoy it, it’s a game of cricket. Forget everything other than cricket. One team will win, one will lose. Handle the pressure, show discipline, and enjoy the moment,” Akram told reporters.
His comments come as India and Pakistan meet for the first time since a tense military conflict earlier this year, which had raised doubts over the fixture. With no bilateral series since 2008, the Asia Cup remains one of the few stages where fans get to witness this iconic rivalry.
Drawing from Experience
Reflecting on his own battles against India, Akram recalled the intensity of those encounters.
“I enjoyed every game against India, and so did the opposition players. These games brought out the best in us,” he said.
He cited the 1999 tour to India, where he captained Pakistan despite threats, and the 1987 tour, which took place amid near-war tensions, as examples of cricket transcending politics.
Current Form and Historical Context
Both sides head into Sunday’s match with momentum. India thrashed hosts UAE in their opener, bowling them out for 57 before chasing in just 4.3 overs. Pakistan, meanwhile, cruised past Oman with a dominant 93-run win.
However, history favors India, who have won 10 of 13 T20Is against Pakistan, including their last clash in February at the Champions Trophy 2025.
Akram, though, insisted Pakistan have the tools to surprise. “Pakistan have a chance, as they won a tri-series last week with Afghanistan and UAE. Anything can happen in this tournament,” he said.
A Clash Beyond Numbers
With over 25,000 fans expected at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Sunday’s match promises to be more than just a game. But Akram’s message was clear: the true prize lies not in one rivalry, but in lifting the Asia Cup trophy.
