The Asia Cup 2025 is anticipated as a notable cricket event, exhibiting the premier cricket prowess from across Asia in the exhilarating T20 setting. Tentatively scheduled from September 9-28 in the United Arab Emirates, this continental contest is slated to include eight teams, battling it out across Dubai and Abu Dhabi stadiums. The competition will unfold in a distinctive structure, beginning with two groups, each consisting of four teams, advancing to a Super Four round and ultimately the final showdown.
Pakistan’s improvement displayed against West Indies indicates a promising outlook for Asia Cup 2025
Pakistan‘s recent journey to the West Indies has displayed optimistic signals in anticipation of the Asia Cup. The Men in Green clinched a praiseworthy 2-1 triumph in the T20I series, with matches held in Lauderhill, Florida. The series highlighted Pakistan’s fresh leadership under captain Salman Ali Agha, who effectively steered the team through demanding contests.
The series commenced with Pakistan achieving 178/6 in the initial T20I, with Saim Ayub‘s striking 57 from 38 deliveries spearheading the effort. Pakistan’s bowling unit, spearheaded by Mohammad Nawaz‘s 3/23, constrained the West Indies to 164/7, resulting in a 14-run victory. The subsequent match witnessed a gripping conclusion as West Indies pursued 134 runs, with Jason Holder‘s undefeated 30 proving pivotal in a 2-wicket triumph. Pakistan retaliated impressively in the deciding match, with Sahibzada Farhan‘s remarkable 74 off 53 deliveries propelling them to 189/4, before dismissing West Indies for 176/6 to secure a 13-run victory and the series.
Also READ: India’s T20I captain for Asia Cup 2025: Hardik Pandya vs Shubman Gill as Suryakumar Yadav’s return in jeopardy
Shaheen Shah Afridi’s expected return to Pakistan’s anticipated team for Asia Cup 2025
Arguably the most noteworthy development is Shaheen Shah Afridi‘s return to the T20I arrangement after his absence from the Bangladesh series. The left-arm pace bowler’s comeback was highlighted by his notable showing in the ODI series against West Indies, where he secured 4/51 in the opening match, aiding Pakistan in dismissing the hosts for 280. His return notably enhances Pakistan’s new-ball assault, with his skill and wicket-claiming ability essential for Asia Cup success.
Shaheen’s inclusion together with Haris Rauf and Hasan Ali establishes a formidable pace combination. The 25-year-old rapid bowler, possessing 102 wickets in 79 T20Is, contributes both leadership characteristics and match-winning abilities to the squad. His presence also equips Pakistan with left-arm variety, essential in unsettling opposition batting sequences.
Based on the latest West Indies tour squad and current performance, Pakistan’s Asia Cup 2025 lineup is projected to present an interesting blend of emerging capabilities and experienced veterans. The predicted 15-member squad comprises:
- Batters: Ayub, Fakhar Zaman, Farhan, and Hasan Nawaz establish a vibrant batting foundation, with Mohammad Haris fulfilling wicket-keeping roles.
- All-rounders: Captain Agha guides from the forefront, supported by Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Hussain Talat, and the explosive Khushdil Shah.
- Bowlers: The pace assault showcases the returning Shaheen alongside Rauf and Hasan, while the spin division includes Abrar Ahmed and the promising Sufyan Muqim.
Here’s how Pakistan’s predicted Asia Cup 2025 squad looks like:
Salman Ali Agha (c), Abrar Ahmed, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Hasan Nawaz, Hussain Talat, Khushdil Shah, Muhammad Haris, Muhammad Nawaz, Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Sufyan Muqim.
Also READ: Asia Cup 2025: UAE Cricket Board COO addresses concerns over India-Pakistan clash
