The countdown to the Asia Cup 2025 has already begun, and the cricketing world is buzzing with anticipation. Despite the ongoing political tensions, fans are set to witness one of the sport’s fiercest rivalries—India vs Pakistan. If both teams manage to reach the final, the two sides could face each other three times within just 14 days, making it one of the most intense showdowns in recent history.
Legendary Pakistan fast bowler Wasim Akram has weighed in on the upcoming clash, urging both fans and players to remain calm and respectful. “I am sure these matches will be entertaining, just like all other India-Pakistan encounters. But I hope both the players and the fans will remain disciplined and not cross the line,” Wasim Akram told Telecom Asia Sport.
Acknowledging the passion on both sides, Wasim Akram added, “If Indians are patriotic and want their team to win, the same goes for Pakistani fans.”
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While the two nations have not played a bilateral series since 2013 due to strained relations, they continue to meet in multi-nation events such as the World Cup and the Asia Cup. Reflecting on the current form, Wasim Akram admitted that India will start as favourites.
“India have been in better form recently and will start as favourites, but the team that handles pressure best on the day will win,” he explained.
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The backdrop of the tournament remains politically sensitive, especially after the Pahalgam terror attack in April 2025 and the cross-border tensions that followed. Yet, Wasim Akram expressed hope for a future where India and Pakistan might resume playing Test cricket. “It’s been too long. A Test series between these two sides would be a historic spectacle for fans across both nations,” he said.
The much-awaited first clash of the Asia Cup 2025 between India and Pakistan will take place on Sunday, August 14, promising to be another chapter in their storied rivalry.
