The Asia Cup 2025 reaches its climax as Pakistan face India in the high-stakes final at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on 28 September. This showdown is historic: not only is it a final between arch-rivals, but Pakistan enter without two of their most influential white-ball players, Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan. While Salman Agha leads the side, India, under Suryakumar Yadav, are aiming to defend their crown. Without two senior batters who have played pivotal roles in past tournaments, Pakistan’s composure and new backing lineup will be under intense scrutiny.
Live Streaming Info
Live coverage in Pakistan will be available on PTV Sports and Tamasha, and in India via Star Sports and Disney+ Hotstar. Fans in Afghanistan can tune in on Ariana TV, while viewers in the U.S. can follow via Willow TV. The final is scheduled to begin at 8:00 PM IST (7:30 PM PST | 2:30 PM GMT | 6:30 PM UAE Time).
Team Analysis
Pakistan’s squad for this Asia Cup is markedly different, as both Rizwan and Babar have been left out. The selectors have emphasized that they must “work on specific areas” to return. Their exclusion signals a shift toward a more aggressive batting approach and faith in emerging talent. In their absence, the batting burden rests on Fakhar Zaman, Salman Agha, Mohammad Haris, Hasan Nawaz, and Iftikhar Ahmed. Rizwan’s void as wicketkeeper and top-order anchor will be particularly felt, making the top-order start and early momentum critical. The roles of Haris and Nawaz become more pivotal, especially in constructing innings under pressure without the calming presence of a veteran.
Bowling still stands as Pakistan’s main strength. Shaheen Afridi leads the attack with pace and swing, supported by Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf who bring aggression and variation. The spin options — Shadab Khan and Usama Mir — must be sharp, especially during the crucial middle overs when the game often turns. Their ability to stifle India’s dynamic batters without the cushion of a strong batting cushion behind them will be tested.
For India, their game plan may not shift much due to Pakistan’s lineup changes. Their batting remains deep and powerful, with players like Tilak Varma, Sanju Samson, and Hardik Pandya capable of seizing momentum. Their bowling — especially spin — could exploit vulnerabilities in a newer Pakistan order lacking proven anchors. If India manage to press early, Pakistan may find it harder to recover without the stability of Rizwan or Babar.
Match Insights & Conclusion
Without Rizwan and Babar, Pakistan’s margin for error shrinks significantly. They must start aggressively yet carefully, protecting wickets early to lay a base for a late surge. Losing early wickets could expose inexperienced middle-order batsmen to India’s attack in testing phases. The middle overs, where spinners from both sides will compete for control, are likely to be decisive. Pakistan must be cautious of conceding too many free runs, as their batting buffer is thinner.
For India, the absence of those two stalwarts is a clear advantage. They can attack Pakistan’s top order with confidence, pressurizing them from the outset. If India establish control, Pakistan will need heroic innings or tight death overs bowling to stay in contention. In summary, this final is now even more intriguing. Pakistan are bidding to win a major final without their long-term backbone. India, with their stability and depth, are favorites — but cricket is unpredictable. Expect bold shots, calculated risks, and a thrilling finish that tests Pakistan’s new era.
