India and Pakistan will square off in the Asia Cup final on September 28.
India and Pakistan will square off in the Asia Cup 2025 final on Sunday (September 28) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. This will be the first final between the arch-rivals in the 41-year history of the continental tournament, which began in 1984.
After India defeated Bangladesh by 41 runs on Wednesday to advance to the final, Pakistan edged past the Tigers by 11 runs on Thursday in Dubai, setting up an iconic title clash.
Ahead of the marquee encounter, former cricketer Yograj Singh condemned the on-field spat between Indian and Pakistani players during the Asia Cup Super 4 clash.
Yograj defended young Indian openers Abhishek Sharma and Shubman Gill, blaming Pakistan’s pace duo of Haris Rauf and Shaheen Afridi for initiating verbal abuse.
Apart from Rauf and Shaheen, Pakistan opener Sahibzada Farhan also drew backlash for his gun-shot celebration after reaching the half-century.
“I will always be with my country. I am a citizen of my country. If anyone speaks against my country, I will not tolerate it... But, as far as the players are concerned, they should be respected. If your country doesn't respect us, how will the outsiders respect us?” Yograj told ANI.
The 67-year-old further stated that Haris and Rauf cross the line by abusing the Indian batters during chase.
“Both the players were playing. They were not saying anything to anyone. So, the players (Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf) went and started abusing them. Neither Abhishek said anything, nor Shubhman. Then what is the point of this? This is not frustration; what is it?” he remarked.
Apart from Rauf and Shaheen, Pakistan opener Sahibzada Farhan also drew backlash for his gun-shot celebration after reaching the half-century.
According to multiple reports, the ICC has imposed 30% match fee fine on Rauf for using “abusive language” while Farhan was let go of with a warning for his provocative gesture.
With the final a day away, it is difficult to rule out more verbal attacks, provocative gestures and tempers flaring as both teams will look to give it their all and secure the Asia Cup 2025 trophy.
Both sides will be aiming to win the coveted Asia Cup title on Sunday, and the heightened emotional stakes could easily lead to more confrontational moments on and off the field.