DUBAI: Pakistan have finalised their playing XI for their second high-voltage Asia Cup clash against India in a few hours, with team management making last-minute changes after the final pre-match meeting at the team hotel.
Final pre-match meeting concludes
According to sources, Pakistan’s team management and captain held an in-depth discussion on several aspects of the game. The meeting focused on the playing XI, batting strategy, and bowling plans, with the coaches and captain delivering motivational instructions to the squad.
Two changes in Playing XI
Sources confirmed that Faheem Ashraf is likely to replace Khushdil Shah, while Hussain Talat will come in for Hassan Nawaz. These adjustments were discussed thoroughly, with the team management backing the decision to strengthen balance in both batting and bowling departments.
Also Read: Asia Cup 2025: India decimate Pakistan by 7 wickets
Toss strategy
The importance of the toss was also a key point in the meeting. The coaching staff advised the captain to bowl first if Pakistan wins the toss, believing that early bowling pressure could tilt the game in Pakistan’s favour.
Batting, bowling plans
Openers have been instructed to play cautiously in the first six overs and avoid losing early wickets. Head coach Mike Hesson emphasized the need for every batter to take personal responsibility, reminding the team that sticking to the plan could lead them to victory.
Also Read: ‘Controversial’ match referee Pycroft to officiate Pakistan-India match
On the bowling front, the captain urged his bowlers to attack right from the start and aim for quick wickets to keep India under pressure.
Motivational talk to players
In his final words, the head coach told the players: “No one’s face should be down during today’s match. Give it your all.” He added that enthusiastic support for one another on the field would put the opposition under pressure and help Pakistan maintain momentum.
Meanwhile, ‘controversial’ match referee, Andy Pycroft, will officiate the match between Pakistan and India in the Super 4s of the Asia Cup at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium today.
Also Read: Asia Cup: Pakistan admit batting failures ahead of clash with India
ICC’s match referee Pycroft earlier apologised to the manager and captain of the Pakistan cricket team over the handshake controversy during the last match between India and Pakistan.
Moreover, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has brought in a sports psychologist and motivational speaker to support the team.
Managing mental stress
According to team sources, Dr. Raheel has been tasked with guiding players on how to relieve mental stress and maintain composure during the match. His sessions will focus on helping cricketers stay mentally strong, focused, and positive, especially when facing intense pressure on the field.
Helping players cope with pressure
The Pakistan-India rivalry is often regarded as one of the most emotionally charged contests in world cricket. To ensure players remain in the best mental shape, Dr. Raheel will advise them on handling anxiety, rotating focus away from external noise, and channeling pressure into performance.
