Dubai: As the cricketing world gears up for the high-voltage Asia Cup 2025 final, legendary Pakistan fast bowler Wasim Akram has delivered a strong message to Babar Azam and his team: strike early to neutralize India’s batting power.
Akram believes the key to halting India’s momentum lies in dismissing their in-form openers, Shubman Gill and Abhishek Sharma, before they settle at the crease. The duo had stitched together a commanding 105-run stand in the Super 4s stage, underlining their role as India’s most dangerous partnership.
“Gill and Abhishek are the backbone of India’s start. If Pakistan can get them out quickly, the pressure will immediately shift to the middle order,” Akram stated in a pre-match analysis.
The Asia Cup final, set to be played in Dubai, holds historic significance as it marks the first-ever summit clash between India and Pakistan in the tournament’s history. Both sides enter the contest with strong form, but Akram stressed that Pakistan must carry the confidence from their convincing Super 4 win over Bangladesh.
“Finals are all about handling pressure. One good innings or one great spell can change everything. Pakistan should back their bowlers to deliver early breakthroughs,” he added.
With anticipation soaring and millions of fans across the globe waiting for the clash, the legendary pacer’s advice highlights just how crucial the opening overs will be in deciding the fate of this blockbuster finale.
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