Post by : Mariam
Al-Faris
Pakistan reached the Super Four stage of the Asia Cup 2025 after beating the UAE, but their performance was not completely smooth. Fans were worried at one point when Pakistan lost six wickets for just 93 runs in 15.1 overs. However, a strong finish helped them recover, showing improvement from their previous match against India. This victory ensured that Pakistan advanced to the next stage of the tournament.
Shaheen Afridi Leads the Late Batting Comeback
After the early wickets fell, Shaheen Afridi played an important cameo, scoring 29 not out from 14 balls. His contribution helped Pakistan reach a total of 146 for 9 in their allotted 20 overs. Fakhar Zaman also contributed well with 50 runs from 36 balls. Pakistan’s total, although modest, was enough to challenge the UAE and gave them a fighting chance in the Super Four stage.
UAE Bowled Out for 105
Pakistan’s bowlers performed strongly, defending their total successfully. Spinner Abrar Ahmed led the bowling attack, taking 2 wickets for 13 runs. Shaheen Afridi and pacer Haris Rauf also contributed with 2 wickets each, finishing with figures of 2-16 and 2-19 respectively. UAE struggled to reach the target and were dismissed for 105 in 17.4 overs. Rahul Chopra was the top scorer for the UAE with 35 runs.
Super Four Clash with India Awaits
Pakistan will face India in their first Super Four match on Sunday in Dubai. The encounter is expected to attract significant attention because of the ongoing tension between the teams. During the group stage match, India’s captain Suryakumar Yadav did not shake hands with Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha at the toss. Pakistan had formally complained about this unsportsmanlike behavior and demanded the removal of match referee Andy Pycroft.
Delayed Match Against UAE
The complaint led to a delay in Pakistan’s must-win game against the UAE. PCB claimed that Pycroft had apologized, which allowed the match to start after a one-hour delay. Despite these tensions, Pakistan focused on their game and successfully beat the UAE, securing their place in the Super Four stage.
Salman Ali Agha on Team’s Performance
Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha expressed that while the team managed to win, there are areas to improve. He emphasized that the batting in the middle order needs strengthening. “We got the job done but we still need to improve our batting in the middle order. That's been a concern and something we need to work on,” he said. He also praised Shaheen Afridi’s batting, saying it had improved a lot, and highlighted Saim’s contributions to bringing the team back into games.
Focus on Future Matches
Salman Ali Agha expressed confidence that if Pakistan bats better in the middle overs, they can push totals up to 170 runs regardless of the opposition. The team now looks forward to facing India, hoping to continue their good form. A strong batting performance, combined with their existing bowling strength, will be key for Pakistan as they aim for victories in the Super Four stage and beyond.
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