Pakistan, angered by the issue of Indian cricketers not shaking hands, had threatened to boycott the tournament. However, after much drama, those fears were allayed by the match against the United Arab Emirates yesterday (Wednesday). At the same time, Salman Ali Aghara also ensured a Super Four berth.
In a virtually do-or-die match, Pakistan’s batsmen failed to perform as expected. The team won on the back of Shaheen Afridi’s all-round prowess. After the match, the Pakistan captain said that they have the ability to defeat any team in the Super Four. He also praised the batsmen.
A confident Salman said, “We are ready for any challenge. Our main goal is to play good cricket. We have been playing good cricket for the last few months. We can play well against any team.”
According to Salman, they are not batting well in the middle overs. Pakistan has the ability to score 170-180 against any team. According to the captain, “We won the match. But we have to bat well in the middle overs. We have had problems in the last few matches. We have to work on that. We have not batted well yet.”
Aggar added, “If we bat well in the middle overs, we can easily score 170-180 runs. I am not thinking about who we will play against.”
Incidentally, Pakistan has reached the Super Four of the Asia Cup by defeating the United Arab Emirates by 41 runs. This has ensured that India-Pakistan will see at least one more match in the current tournament. The date of the match has also been finalized. Salman Ali Aggar will face India again next Sunday (September 21). The venue of the match is Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
FAQ
How did Pakistan secure their Super Four spot in the Asia Cup 2025?
Pakistan defeated the United Arab Emirates by 41 runs in a do-or-die match at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, ensuring qualification for the Super Four from Group A.
Who was the standout performer for Pakistan in the match against UAE?
Shaheen Shah Afridi played a key role with an all-round performance, scoring quick runs and helping Pakistan reach a competitive total while contributing with the ball.
How did Pakistan’s batting perform in the match?
Pakistan’s batting struggled in the middle overs, but early partnerships and Shaheen Afridi’s late surge helped them post a total that UAE could not chase.
What did Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha say after the match?
Salman Ali Agha expressed confidence in his team, stating they are ready for any challenge, can score 170-180 runs against any team, and aim to play good cricket consistently.
When and where will Pakistan face India in the Super Four?
Pakistan is scheduled to play India on Sunday, September 21, 2025, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
