ISLAMABAD: Cricket’s fiercest rivalry is about to enter uncharted territory. For the first time in the tournament’s 41-year history, Pakistan and India will face off in the Asia Cup final on Sunday at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
The clash adds a fresh chapter to a storied rivalry that transcends sport, bringing political tensions, national pride, and the weight of history to the crease. While the two sides have squared off many times in Asia Cup matches, never before has a title been on the line.
Pakistan sealed their place in the decider by edging Bangladesh in a tense 11-run win, while India arrive unbeaten after brushing aside all challengers. The Green Shirts, champions in 2000 and 2012, are chasing their third crown, while India look to extend their dominance in the region.
But the buildup has been far from smooth.
A handshake controversy in the group stage, when Indian skipper Suryakumar Yadav, reportedly on the advice of the Indian government, declined to shake hands with Pakistani captain Salman Ali Agha, sparked a storm.
The gesture was repeated in the Super Four round, leaving Pakistan’s players and coach Mike Hesson openly frustrated. Agha later called the snub “harmful,” saying past Indo-Pak contests, no matter how heated, always ended with a handshake.
The tension has only heightened the stakes. This is the first tournament meeting between the nuclear-armed neighbours since a military conflict in May, ensuring emotions will run high under Dubai’s lights.
“There’s always pressure in Pakistan-India matches,” Agha admitted at the pre-final press conference. “But if we make fewer mistakes, we can win. You’ll see us winning.”
India, meanwhile, survived a Super Over scare against Sri Lanka in Friday’s dead rubber, a reminder that even unbeaten sides can wobble.
For fans, the final promises more than just cricket; it’s a collision of skill, nerves, and national sentiment, with the Asia Cup trophy as the prize.
