As the cricketing world braces for the high-stakes India-Pakistan clash at the Asia Cup 2025 on Sunday in Dubai, former Pakistan captain Misbah-ul-Haq has spotlighted a potential chink in India’s armor: the absence of stalwarts Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. For the first time in over a decade, India enters a major multi-nation tournament without the veteran duo, who retired from T20Is after clinching the T20 World Cup in Barbados last year and later stepped away from Test cricket in May 2025. Misbah believes this shift could tilt the scales in Pakistan’s favor.
Speaking on the Game On Hai YouTube show, Misbah-ul-Haq, leading a Salman Ali Agha-captained Pakistan side, suggested that Pakistan’s bowlers could capitalize on India’s relatively inexperienced batting lineup. “They don’t have Virat Kohli, as the batting is different. The new guys haven’t played these bowlers. If the Pakistan bowlers can create a hole at the top, they surely have a chance,” he said, emphasizing the opportunity to disrupt India early in the game. Pakistan’s recent 93-run thrashing of Oman on Friday underscores their bowling prowess, setting the stage for a fierce contest.
In contrast, Indian cricket legend Kapil Dev expressed unwavering confidence in the young Indian squad, predicting a victory against their archrivals. “The Indian team will play and win the match; this is what I desire. The way they are playing, they will win,” Kapil told reporters. India’s campaign began with a commanding nine-wicket victory over the UAE on Wednesday, signaling their intent. Kapil also paid tribute to Kohli and Sharma’s monumental contributions, urging the next generation to step up. “There should not be talk about individuals, but the Indian team. Representing India is much more important,” he added.
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The absence of Kohli and Sharma, whose experience and clutch performances have long defined India’s dominance in high-pressure encounters, places the spotlight on emerging talents like Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Jasprit Bumrah. Pakistan, meanwhile, will rely on their potent bowling attack, led by Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah, to challenge India’s revamped lineup. The Dubai International Cricket Stadium, known for its balanced pitch, is expected to host a packed crowd for this electrifying rivalry, with ticket prices soaring due to unprecedented demand.
As anticipation builds, the India-Pakistan clash promises to be a defining moment in the Asia Cup 2025, testing India’s new guard against Pakistan’s strategic aggression. With both teams in strong form and contrasting narratives fueling the buildup, the match is poised to deliver a spectacle that transcends the sport, uniting fans in a shared passion for this historic rivalry.
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