A blockbuster clash is on the horizon as India and Pakistan prepare to renew their iconic rivalry in the Asia Cup 2025 T20 edition. With both teams entering the contest in impressive form, fans around the world can expect fireworks when they meet in Dubai.
India Start Strong in Title Defence
India, the defending champions, launched their campaign in dominant fashion by thrashing hosts UAE in their opening game. Bowling first, the Indian attack dismantled the opposition for just 57 runs. Kuldeep Yadav led the charge with a sensational spell, picking up four wickets for only seven runs. The chase was little more than a formality, as India cruised home with nine wickets in hand.
What makes this year’s squad particularly interesting is the absence of two modern-day greats, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. Despite missing their experienced stalwarts, the men in blue carry the tag of favourites, boasting a record eight Asia Cup titles. The youthful team, led by Suryakumar Yadav with Shubman Gill as deputy, looks hungry to prove itself on the big stage.
Pakistan Riding on Recent Success
Pakistan, on the other side, arrive with confidence after winning a tri-nation T20 series against Afghanistan and the UAE in Sharjah. They will kick off their Asia Cup campaign against Oman before heading into the marquee clash against India. With a balanced squad featuring explosive openers like Fakhar Zaman and power-packed bowlers such as Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf, Pakistan have all the tools to test their arch-rivals.
Looking back at their most recent meeting in Dubai earlier this year during the ICC Champions Trophy, India had the upper hand. Virat Kohli’s masterful innings ensured a comfortable six-wicket win after Pakistan were dismissed for 241. But with Kohli absent this time, it presents a fresh challenge for India and a new opportunity for Pakistan.
Match Details and Where to Watch
The highly anticipated contest will be played at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Sunday, September 14. The Group A fixture is scheduled to begin at 8:00 p.m. IST.
Fans in India can catch all the action live on the Sony Sports Network channels, while digital coverage will be available on the SonyLiv app and website.
India Squad: Suryakumar Yadav (C), Shubman Gill (VC), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (Wk), Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Jasprit Bumrah, Varun Chakravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav, Jitesh Sharma (Wk), Arshdeep Singh, Rinku Singh, Harshit Rana.
Pakistan Squad: Salman Agha (C), Fakhar Zaman, Saim Ayub, Sahibzada Farhan, Hasan Nawaz, Mohammad Haris (Wk), Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, Abrar Ahmed, Mohammad Wasim Jr, Hasan Ali, Hussain Talat, Khushdil Shah, Salman Mirza, Sufiyan Muqeem.
This India-Pakistan clash is more than just another group-stage encounter—it’s a battle of pride, power, and prestige. With both sides eager to stamp their authority, cricket fans are set for a thrilling night in Dubai.
