As the Asia Cup 2025 approaches, the highly anticipated clash between India and Pakistan is generating considerable buzz. Scheduled for September 14 in Dubai, this encounter has the potential to occur multiple times throughout the tournament, including the Super Four stage and the final.

Amidst the excitement, former Pakistan captain Wasim Akram has offered his insights, acknowledging India as the favorites due to their recent form. However, he emphasized that the team which handles pressure effectively on the day will ultimately emerge victorious.

Akram also stressed the importance of maintaining discipline and sportsmanship, urging both players and fans to "not cross the line". He highlighted the immense global viewership of India-Pakistan matches and called for a respectful yet fierce competition. "Games between India and Pakistan are watched by billions around the world," Akram noted, emphasizing the Asia Cup as an ideal stage for such a contest.

While acknowledging India's strong form, Akram expressed confidence in Pakistan's youthful squad, though he regretted the absence of Babar Azam. He believes that this tournament presents an opportunity for other players to step up and prove their mettle.

Beyond the Asia Cup, Akram voiced his desire for the resumption of India-Pakistan Test series, emphasizing the historical significance and global appeal of such encounters. He hopes to witness a bilateral Test series between the two nations in his lifetime, which hasn't occurred since 2012.

Akram's call for calm and focus on the sport comes against the backdrop of heightened tensions between the two countries. Recent events, including the Pahalgam terror attack, have strained relations, leading to concerns about the potential for the rivalry to spill over. Akram, however, insists that "the game must go on," separating sports from politics. He acknowledged the criticism faced by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for agreeing to play against Pakistan but maintained that sportsmanship should prevail.

Despite the challenges, Akram remains optimistic about the Asia Cup and the potential for multiple India-Pakistan clashes. He reiterated that Pakistan would be fine whether India decides to play or not. He underscored the need for fans to show discipline and avoid letting their passion cross the line.

As the Asia Cup 2025 draws closer, the focus will be on whether the players and fans can heed Akram's advice and maintain a spirit of healthy competition. The world will be watching as these two cricket giants clash on the field, with the hope that the contest will be remembered for its sporting excellence rather than off-field controversies.