UAE coach Lalchand Rajput has made it clear that his team will not be intimidated by Pakistan as they gear up for a crucial Asia Cup 2025 group-stage clash on Wednesday, September 17, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. The hosts enter the contest with renewed belief after their commanding 42-run win over Oman.

An explosive 88-run opening partnership between Muhammad Waseem and Alishan Sharafu set the tone, while Junaid Siddique’s incisive bowling sealed the result. That victory not only revived the UAE’s campaign but also gave them the momentum they needed ahead of their biggest challenge yet.

Despite a shaky start in their opener against India—where they were bowled out for their lowest T20I total—Rajput insists the setback only strengthened the squad. The side also takes confidence from their recent tri-series in Sharjah, where they matched Pakistan blow for blow and saw Asif Khan smash a scintillating 35-ball 77 against the Men in Green.

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With Suryakumar Yadav’s India already qualified, this fixture effectively serves as a knockout for a place in the Super Four. Rajput believes that one inspired performance could script history for UAE cricket.

“A win is always good, and we’ve got to carry this momentum forward. The best thing is that we’ve already played Pakistan in the tri-series, so we know where we stand. It just takes one good performance, and we can make it to the Super Four,” Lalchand Rajput said at the pre-match press conference.

He added, “We played very good cricket today, and we’ll try to bring our best again tomorrow. It’s a do-or-die game for us, and qualifying for the last four would be huge.”

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Pakistan, meanwhile, comes into the clash with questions over its form and focus. After a comfortable win against Oman, they were thoroughly outclassed by India, exposing their fragile middle order. Adding to their woes is the ongoing handshake controversy with India, which nearly pushed the PCB to withdraw from the tournament. The off-field drama has unsettled the camp, making Wednesday’s showdown with the UAE all the more fascinating.