Former India cricketer turned commentator Aakash Chopra has opined that the eight overs shared by Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakaravarthy could prove vital in India’s Asia Cup 2025 clash against Pakistan. The match is slated to take place on Sunday, September 14, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium as well. However, Kuldeep was named Player of the Match in India’s opening game against the UAE, which the team won by nine wickets as well.

On the eve of the match, Saturday, September 13, Aakash Chopra said [via ESPNcricinfo]: “From a bowling perspective, I see that India’s two spinners, Varun Chakaravarthy and Kuldeep Yadav can control the match and also take wickets. Traditionally, Pakistan has not played well against leg-spin. Whether it is left-arm leg-spin or right-arm leg-spin, they struggle. Those eight overs could perhaps decide or define this match.”

READ HERE: Shubman Gill Takes Sly Dig At His Critics After India Win At Edgbaston

“Both of them will be in focus, and in those eight overs of spin, Mohammad Harris scored runs in the last match, with a half-century to his name. They also have a big name in Fakhar Zaman. So if you can get them out in the middle, then I think the match could quickly swing in India’s favour,” he further added.

However, Team India have an impressive T20I record against Pakistan, triumphing in 10 of 13 games as well.