Former Pakistan cricketer Umar Gul has warned Team India against underestimating the Men in Green as the two teams get ready to take on each other at the Asia Cup 2025 T20I tournament on Sunday (14 September) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. World No 1 T20I side India will enter the Asia Cup as the tournament favourites, while Pakistan are eighth in the ICC rankings.
Nonetheless, Pakistan gave a stern warning to their opponents with a 75-run win over Afghanistan in the United Arab Emirates T20I Tri-Series 2025 final on Sunday. The Afghans were bowled out for just 66, chasing 142 against Pakistan as Mohammad Nawaz took five wickets for 19.
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This would boost the morale of the Salman Agha-led Pakistan as they aim to land a crushing blow on India after the recent cross-border conflict. Pakistan, however, have a very poor record against India in T20Is, having lost nine out of 13 matches.
Umar Gul warns India ahead of Pakistan clash in Asia Cup
Considering the tough challenge ahead of them, the 42-year-old Umar Gul has asked the fans to back the Pakistan team as he warned India against underestimating the Men in Green.
“We should support the Pakistan team. The Indian team looks strong, but in T20 cricket, one good batting or bowling performance can turn the match,” Gul was quoted as saying by Geo News.
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Gull also added that Pakistan can spring a surprise on the back of their bowling, as he pointed out the top players who will be missing the tournament.
“All the major tournaments Pakistan has won have come through the bowlers. Fans will surely miss stars like Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, Virat Kohli, and Rohit Sharma in this event,” he added.
Impact Shorts
More ShortsBesides India and Pakistan, the UAE and Oman are also part of Group A. Group B includes Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Sri Lanka and Hong Kong. The top two teams from each group will advance to the Super Four.