The Asia Cup 2025 group stage takes an intriguing turn as Pakistan lock horns with the United Arab Emirates in a high-stakes Group A fixture at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on 17 September. This contest is more than just a routine group match. For Pakistan, it is a must-win after their setback against India, while for UAE it represents a golden opportunity to challenge a traditional powerhouse and keep their own hopes of reaching the Super Four alive. The clash promises a mix of intensity and unpredictability, with the spotlight firmly on how Pakistan’s recalibrated side responds under pressure and how far UAE’s rising cricketers can push them on home soil.
Live Streaming Info
Fans can watch Pakistan vs UAE live on PTV Sports and Tamasha (Pakistan), Star Sports and Disney+ Hotstar (India), Ariana TV (Afghanistan), and Willow TV (USA). Match Start Time: 6:00 PM PST | 6:30 PM IST | 1:00 PM GMT | 5:00 PM UAE Time
Team Analysis
Pakistan arrive at this encounter under the fresh captaincy of Salman Ali Agha, a choice that reflects the selectors’ decision to look beyond established stars like Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan for this tournament. While the absence of those names has surprised many, the squad has a blend of youth and experience that can still mount a serious challenge. Fakhar Zaman’s aggressive batting at the top remains vital, while Mohammad Haris has the potential to play the role of an impact player in the middle order.
With the ball, Pakistan’s strength remains their pace battery, spearheaded by Shaheen Shah Afridi, whose ability to strike early can set the tone, while Haris Rauf’s raw pace and Hasan Ali’s experience give the attack an edge. UAE, led by their captain Muhammad Waseem, enter this game with a mixture of excitement and determination. Playing at their home ground, they are keen to show that their cricket has grown beyond the associate tag. Waseem himself is a dangerous batter who can take on the bowlers in the powerplay, while Alishan Sharafu and Asif Khan bring solidity and flair to the middle order.
Their batting lineup may not have the reputation of Pakistan’s, but it has the potential to surprise if allowed to settle. With the ball, Junaid Siddique’s pace will be crucial in trying to rattle Pakistan’s top order, while the likes of Muhammad Jawadullah and Dhruv Parashar will aim to exploit the conditions under lights. The UAE bowlers will know that discipline and sharp fielding are non-negotiable if they are to contain Pakistan’s firepower.
Match Insights and Conclusion
The Dubai surface is expected to play true, offering good batting conditions early on before slowing down as the game progresses. Spinners could have a role to play in the middle overs, making the likes of Shadab Khan, Abrar Ahmed, and UAE’s spin options particularly relevant. Dew could also be a factor in the second innings, potentially influencing the decision at the toss. With so much riding on this match, every tactical call, from field placements to bowling changes, will be scrutinised.
As the teams prepare to take the field, anticipation builds for a contest that has all the makings of a classic David vs Goliath battle. Pakistan’s established pace attack and powerful middle order make them the obvious favourites, but UAE’s fearless brand of cricket and the confidence of playing at home ensure that they cannot be written off. The result may hinge on how Pakistan’s top order responds to early pressure and whether UAE can sustain intensity over forty overs. One thing is certain: when Pakistan and UAE collide in Dubai, the stakes, the passion, and the spectacle of the Asia Cup will all reach another level.
