Pakistan Aims for Strong Showing in Asia Cup 2025

DUBAI: Pakistan’s T20I captain, Salman Ali Agha, conveyed his resolve on Tuesday to put up a compelling प्रदर्शन in the Asia Cup 2025. He mentioned that the squad’s efficiency remains satisfactory even with the absence of Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan.

While addressing the media during the trophy unveiling event held in Dubai, Salman underlined that the team’s collective प्रदर्शन has seen an upward trend. He added that each member of the squad is driven and keen to shine in the approaching tournament.

“I believe our cricket is of good quality. We initiated this journey a few months back, and now everything seems to be aligning perfectly. We are exhibiting strong teamwork and eagerly anticipating this tournament. The enthusiasm is palpable,” Salman stated.

Responding to a query regarding competing in the Asia Cup without key players like Babar and Rizwan, Salman admitted that their non-participation certainly escalates the challenge. However, he assured that the team is thoroughly equipped to tackle the situation.

“The journey has been productive. Over the past four months, our cricket has been commendable. Securing victories in three out of four series is a testament to our teamwork. Simultaneously, anticipation is high. This tournament marks a debut of this scale for many among us, and we’re prepared to face the challenges,” he further added.

Earlier in Dubai, the Asia Cup 2025 trophy was presented, with Asian Cricket Council (ACC) president Mohsin Naqvi in attendance.

Captains representing all participating nations—Pakistan, India, Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, UAE, Hong Kong, and Oman—attended the event, participating in a photo session alongside the trophy.

Notably, the 15th edition of the men’s Asia Cup, formatted as a T20I, will showcase eight teams: Pakistan, India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Oman, UAE, and Hong Kong, categorized into two groups.

India finds itself positioned in Group A, adjacent to Oman, Pakistan, and the UAE, who are also the hosting nation.

Their campaign is set to commence against the UAE on September 10 in Dubai, followed by a match against Pakistan on September 14 at the same venue, concluding the group stage against Oman on September 19 in Abu Dhabi.

Group B encompasses Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Hong Kong, and Sri Lanka. The leading two teams from each group will proceed to the Super Four stage, from which the top two will then compete in the final match scheduled for September 28.

The tournament’s opening match is scheduled between Afghanistan and Hong Kong, belonging to Group B.