The India-Pakistan rivalry is set to ignite once again in the Super Four stage of the Asia Cup 2025 in Dubai on September 21. India, who are currently undefeated, will aim to replicate their dominant performance from the group stage against Pakistan. However, an injury concern surrounding Axar Patel could force a change in the predicted XI.
Predicted XI and Injury Concerns
India will likely bring back Jasprit Bumrah and Varun Chakravarthy into the playing XI after resting them against Oman. However, Axar Patel's availability is uncertain after he sustained a head injury while attempting a catch in the match against Oman. According to fielding coach T. Dilip, Axar appears to be fine, but his fitness will be assessed before the game.
If Axar is unavailable, the team might need to rethink their strategy of playing three spinners and could include an extra pacer, potentially affecting the team's batting depth. Former opener Aakash Chopra suggested that if Axar is ruled out, either Arshdeep Singh or Harshit Rana should be included in the team as there is no like-for-like replacement.
Predicted India XI vs Pakistan:
Strengths and Key Players
India's batting lineup has been in excellent form, with Abhishek Sharma being a consistent performer at the top. Sanju Samson also gained confidence after his half-century. The return of Jasprit Bumrah will bolster the pace attack, while Kuldeep Yadav's spin has been effective in the tournament. Kuldeep Yadav has been in great form in the tournament, picking up eight wickets in three matches.
Match Dynamics
The Dubai pitch is expected to favor spinners, which could play into India's strategy of utilizing three spinners. While historically, teams batting second have had an advantage at this venue, recent matches have shown a more balanced outcome.
Despite off-field tensions and controversies, including a handshake incident after the previous match, India will be focused on their on-field performance. India will start as favorites, but Pakistan will be eager to bounce back after their previous defeat.
