As the highly anticipated Asia Cup final between India and Pakistan approaches, the status of two key Indian players, Hardik Pandya and Abhishek Sharma, has been a subject of much speculation. Both players experienced physical discomfort during India's Super 4 match against Sri Lanka, raising concerns about their availability for the crucial final.

The Latest Updates

Following the match against Sri Lanka, India's bowling coach Morne Morkel addressed the media, providing updates on the condition of Pandya and Sharma. Morkel confirmed that both players had suffered from cramps during the game. While Abhishek Sharma is "fine," Hardik Pandya's condition was to be assessed later that night and the morning of September 27th to determine his availability for the final.

Suryakumar Yadav, who captained India in the match against Sri Lanka, also alluded to some players experiencing cramps. While he didn't mention names, it was understood that he was referring to Pandya and Varma. Yadav said that the team would focus on recovery and aim to "turn up the same way" for the final.

Impact on Team India

Hardik Pandya's presence in the team is crucial as he provides a vital balance with his all-round capabilities. In the match against Sri Lanka, Pandya bowled only one over, dismissing Kusal Mendis, before leaving the field. His absence for the majority of the match was a concern, highlighting his importance to the team's composition. If Pandya is unavailable, Arshdeep Singh is likely to take his place in the starting XI.

Abhishek Sharma has been in tremendous form throughout the Asia Cup 2025, becoming the highest run-scorer in a single T20 Asia Cup edition. In the match against Sri Lanka, Sharma scored a blistering 61 off 31 balls, marking his third consecutive fifty of the tournament. Sharma has been a cornerstone of India's aggressive batting strategy.

India Focused on Recovery

With the final being so close, the Indian team is prioritizing recovery over intense training. Morkel confirmed that there would be no training on September 27th, with players focusing on ice baths, rest, and massage sessions to recuperate.

A Historic Final

The Asia Cup 2025 final marks a historic moment as it will be the first time India and Pakistan have faced each other in the tournament's final. India has dominated the Asia Cup, winning the title a record eight times, while Pakistan has won it twice. Team India will aim to maintain their unbeaten record in the tournament. However, Pakistan's Shoaib Akhtar has urged his team to break "India's aura".