The upcoming India vs. Pakistan match in the Asia Cup 2025, slated for September 14th, has ignited considerable discussion. Former Pakistani player Basit Ali has voiced his concerns about Pakistan’s potential performance in the tournament. He went as far as to suggest that he hopes India chooses not to participate in the match, fearing a severe defeat for the Pakistani team.
Ali’s apprehensions follow Pakistan’s disappointing performance against the West Indies. The West Indies triumphed in the three-match ODI series with a 2-1 scoreline. In a particularly dismal display, Pakistan was bowled out for 92 runs while pursuing a target of 295 in the final ODI. Commenting on the ‘The Game Plan’ YouTube channel, Ali stated, “I’m hoping India declines to play against Pakistan in the Asia Cup, similar to how they opted out of the World Championship of Legends. Otherwise, the defeat will be so comprehensive, it’s unimaginable.”
The YouTube channel’s host made a lighthearted remark, suggesting that Pakistan might struggle even against Afghanistan. Ali responded by saying that a loss to Afghanistan would barely register with the public, but a loss to India would incite widespread outrage.
The Asia Cup 2025 is scheduled to start on September 9th. India and Pakistan have been drawn into the same group. Team announcements from both sides are still pending. Pakistan’s recent form includes a 2-1 series win in the preceding three-match T20 series against the West Indies.
In the ODI series, Salman Ali Agha was Pakistan’s top scorer in the final match. However, Pakistan’s batting order generally struggled, with key batsmen like Sam Ayub, Abdullah Shafique, and captain Mohammad Rizwan failing to score. Babar Azam managed only 9 runs. All eyes are on Pakistan’s performance in the Asia Cup 2025.
India recently concluded a five-match test series against England, resulting in a 2-2 draw. The focus is now shifting to India’s prospects in the upcoming Asia Cup 2025, where they are considered a strong contender for the title.