The India-Pakistan cricket rivalry is set to resume in the Asia Cup 2025, with the teams facing off in Abu Dhabi on September 14. Virender Sehwag, one of India’s most dynamic openers, has shared his experiences.
Sehwag stated that losing to Pakistan during his playing days would heavily impact his mindset.
Throughout his career, Sehwag played 42 matches against Pakistan and performed well, averaging over 50. However, he experienced 21 losses.
Sehwag recounted his performance during India’s 2008 tour of Pakistan. In Karachi, facing a challenging target of 300, Sehwag scored 119 runs from 95 balls, which included 12 fours and 5 sixes, thereby leading India to victory. The achievement was even more notable because he was fasting that day.
In the upcoming Asia Cup 2025, India and Pakistan will compete in Group A, alongside UAE and Oman. India will start their campaign on September 10 versus UAE, followed by the Pakistan match on September 14. The group stage concludes with a game against Oman on September 19, all in Abu Dhabi. The rivalry between India and Pakistan continues to be a major draw for fans worldwide. For Sehwag and others who have played in this fixture, it remains a passionate experience.
With a new generation of players involved, the intensity remains. As the teams prepare to meet again, the tales from players like Sehwag remind us of the unique nature of this contest.