Wasim Akram Gives Advice To Pakistan Ahead Of Asia Cup 2025 Final

As the much-anticipated Asia Cup 2025 final between India and Pakistan approaches, former Pakistan pace legend Wasim Akram has offered crucial advice to Salman Ali Agha and his team. This will mark the third clash between the two rivals in the tournament, with India winning both previous encounters  under Suryakumar Yadav’s leadership. Despite a mixed campaign, Pakistan secured their place in the final after a hard-fought 11-run victory over Bangladesh in the Super Four stage.

Acknowledging India’s dominant form, Akram admitted that they are clear favourites but stressed that finals often deliver unexpected results. “The final is between India and Pakistan. India is definitely the favourite, but anything can happen,” he said. The legendary bowler believes Pakistan must enter the contest with belief and determination, playing with strategic discipline and resilience.

Self-Belief and Early Breakthroughs: Akram’s Key Advice

Wasim Akram highlighted two essential elements for Pakistan’s game plan — unwavering self-belief and the ability to take early wickets. He emphasized that a confident start and early breakthroughs could significantly shift the momentum in Pakistan’s favour. “Pakistan must maintain confidence and momentum. They must believe in themselves and play smart cricket. If Pakistan takes early wickets, they can put India on the back foot. I hope the best team will win in the end,” Akram remarked.

This tactical advice comes as Pakistan seeks redemption against an Indian side that has been dominant throughout the tournament. Early wickets would disrupt India’s batting rhythm, creating pressure and opening up opportunities for Pakistan’s bowling attack to dictate the game’s flow.

Pakistan’s Belief in Their Capabilities

Team skipper Salman Ali Agha echoed Akram’s sentiment about self-belief following their qualification for the final. Reflecting on their recent performance, he highlighted the team’s determination and potential. “If you win these kinds of games, then we must be a special team. Everyone played really well. There is some room for improvement in batting. But we will work on that,” he stated.

Salman praised the team’s fielding efforts and credited the coaching staff for their commitment to improvement. “We have been fielding well. Shane has been working hard for us. We have been having extra sessions. Mike Hesson said if you can’t field, you won’t be on the team. We are a good enough team to beat anyone. We will come back on Sunday and try and do that,” he added.