International Cricket ⇒ Wasim Akram’s Message: Focus Beyond India Clash in AC 2025

[Em Vicky Khan]

In preparation for Sunday’s Asia Cup T20 encounter against India, Pakistan’s illustrious spinner Wasim Akram urged his side to keep the larger goal in mind.

Prior to Pakistan’s crucial Group A match against India at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Akram emphasised that the team should disregard rivalry with India and concentrate on tournament objectives.

Before their Group A match against India at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Akram told an inexperienced Pakistani squad, “Pakistan should not just aim to beat India; the goal should be to win the Asia Cup.” Iconic. Even if you’re defeated by a top-tier squad, you should keep your head up and perform well in the match.

Relations between the two neighbours hit a decades-low during their first cricket match after a four-month military confrontation. Maintaining the age-old rivalry despite no bilateral series since 2008, India chose not to boycott the match despite the high tensions.

Cricket is a game, so have fun with it, said the legendary left-arm bowler Akram. Drop everything and focus on cricket. In this match, one side triumphs while the other falls short. This is a game for the spectators and the teams, so relax, keep your cool, and have fun.

While playing against India, Akram flourished in high-pressure situations.

He made it clear that he and the other players had fun in every match versus India. He reflected on leading Pakistan on their 1999 tour to India in the face of terrorist threats and on their 1987 tour, when they were on the verge of war with India.

When both teams are at their peak, they meet. India reached the mark in 4.3 overs after batting 57 runs, whereas Pakistan reached 160-7 after batting 67 runs in 16.4 overs against Oman.

India has won ten of Pakistan’s thirteen Twenty20 matches. With a six-wicket victory in February 2025, India claimed the ICC Champions Trophy in Dubai.

Pakistan should not get too pumped up for their match against the Twenty20 world champions and archrivals, Akram cautioned.

Last week, Pakistan won a tri-series that included Afghanistan and the UAE, giving them a fighting chance. According to him, anything may happen in this tournament.

There will be 25,000 spectators at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium for what promises to be an exciting contest.