Pakistan’s pace spearhead Shaheen Shah Afridi has boldly declared that his team is ready to beat India in the upcoming Asia Cup final if the two rivals meet again. Shaheen’s statement came after Pakistan kept their hopes alive in the tournament with a five-wicket victory over Sri Lanka in a Super Four clash on Tuesday.
Pakistan and India have faced off twice in this edition of the Asia Cup, but the two nations have never squared off in a final. With India and Pakistan both still in contention, Shaheen is confident about Pakistan’s chances. He dismissed any concerns following India’s previous wins over Pakistan in the tournament, stating, “When they reach the final, then we will see them.”
The defending champions India have been dominant in their recent encounters with Pakistan, winning 12 out of 15 T20Is and maintaining an undefeated streak in their last seven international meetings since September 2022. Despite this, Shaheen remains optimistic about Pakistan’s chances. “We are here to win the cup, whichever team comes in the final we are ready to beat them,” he added.
Shaheen’s remarks also came in response to India’s Suryakumar Yadav, who controversially said that the India-Pakistan rivalry was no longer significant. Shaheen brushed off the comments, saying, “It is his opinion, let him say that.” For the Pakistani pacer, the focus is on winning the Asia Cup and proving their worth when the final arrives.
Pakistan’s victory over Sri Lanka, chasing down a target of 134 with 12 balls to spare, keeps them on track for a potential showdown with India in the tournament’s decider. The stage is set for an exciting conclusion to the Asia Cup, with both teams eager to claim the title.
