Pakistan Likely to Retain Winning XI Against India in Dubai

The cricketing world is once again buzzing with excitement as Pakistan prepares to take on their arch-rivals India in the Asia Cup 2025. The much-awaited clash will be played on Sunday at the world-famous Dubai International Cricket Stadium, a venue that has often hosted unforgettable matches between the two sides. Whenever Pakistan and India meet, the game turns into more than just a sporting event—it becomes an emotional battle filled with passion, pressure, and pride. Fans from both nations, as well as millions of cricket lovers worldwide, are eagerly waiting for this high-stakes encounter that promises thrilling action, tense moments, and plenty of drama.

As per early team news, Pakistan’s management is expected to continue with the same playing XI that impressed in their opening game against Oman. The team looked in excellent form, securing a convincing 93-run win, which has boosted the players’ confidence ahead of this crucial fixture. There is, however, one possible adjustment still under discussion. The availability of fast bowler Haris Rauf will be decided closer to the match, likely at the stadium itself. While he remains under consideration, reports suggest that his chances of being included in the final playing XI are quite slim, meaning Pakistan may stick to their winning combination.

Both sides come into this contest full of confidence after dominating their opening matches. India completely outclassed the hosts UAE, bowling them out for just 57 runs. In reply, the Indian batsmen needed only 4.3 overs to chase down the target, showing just how dangerous their batting lineup can be when in rhythm. On the other hand, Pakistan showcased a balanced display of both batting and bowling. The team put up a respectable total of 160 for 7 and then bowled out Oman for only 67 runs within 17 overs, sealing a comfortable win.

Despite Pakistan’s convincing form, the record books tell a different story when it comes to T20 international matches between these two arch-rivals. Out of 13 encounters so far, India has won 10 times, while Pakistan has only managed to come out on top in three games. This historical edge gives India an advantage, though in cricket, especially in high-pressure matches like these, anything can happen.

The last time these two sides met was during the 2024 T20 World Cup in New York. That match turned out to be a nail-biting low-scoring thriller. Rohit Sharma’s men held their nerves better in crunch moments and managed to secure a narrow win over Babar Azam’s Pakistan, adding another dramatic chapter to this fierce rivalry.

As fans look forward to the contest, Pakistan’s probable playing XI for the India match is expected to feature: Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Mohammad Haris (wk), Fakhar Zaman, Salman Ali Agha, Hasan Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Mohammad Nawaz, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Sufiyan Muqeem, and Abrar Ahmed. This combination offers a mix of explosive batting options and a bowling attack that has the ability to trouble even the strongest batting orders.

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