Unlike India’s undefeated team, Pakistan, set to face them in Sunday’s Asia Cup final at Dubai International Stadium, has fought hard to reach this point.
Their bowlers have been the backbone of their success, stepping up as their batters have struggled to find consistency.
In the critical Super Four match against Bangladesh on Thursday, Pakistan stumbled to 73 for six, but Mohammad Haris (31 off 23 balls) and Mohammad Nawaz (25 off 15 balls) helped push the score to 133 for eight.
Led by Shaheen Shah Afridi, the bowling squad then clamped down on Bangladesh, limiting them to 124 for nine, securing a narrow 11-run victory.
Missing Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, Pakistan’s more seasoned players, this revamped team is still developing.
Agha acknowledges that everything must align perfectly to overcome India in the final, having lost to them twice in the tournament.
Despite this, the Pakistan captain finds motivation in the team’s remarkable ability to win even when their batting hasn’t shone against Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.
“Winning such games speaks to being a special team. Everyone contributed,” he noted, highlighting the three-wicket performances by Afridi and right-arm pacer Haris Rauf.
“Shaheen’s and Haris’s (Rauf) early spells were exceptional. We’re finding ways to win and will improve for the final.”
Agha also commended ‘team player’ Haris for his crucial innings after Pakistan’s shaky start at 73 for six.
“He’s an exceptional player, playing out of position without complaint. He’s ready to do whatever the team needs. His contributions are consistent, and I’m thrilled,” he remarked.
Agha is confident that his team can create a surprise in the final against India, who have defeated them in seven consecutive matches across two white-ball formats since 2022.
“We’re very excited for the final,” he stated. “We know what needs to be done, and we believe we can beat anyone. We will give our best on Sunday.”
Meanwhile, Afridi (4-0-18-3), with his second consecutive three-wicket haul, heads into the final full of confidence.
“As a team, we need early breakthroughs, and I focus on that,” Afridi said, dedicating his man-of-the-match performance against Bangladesh to his wife and son.
“We’re ready for the final!”
