The India vs. Pakistan encounter in the Asia Cup 2025, to be held in Dubai on September 14, is generating tremendous anticipation. Both teams have shown strong form early in the tournament, with India achieving a significant victory over the UAE and Pakistan triumphing over Oman. Both are hoping to maintain their winning streaks. A key subplot will be the anticipated duel between Indian opener Abhishek Sharma and Pakistani spinner Sufiyan Muqeem, who have a history of conflict.
The altercation between Indian batsman Abhishek Sharma and Pakistani left-arm spinner Sufiyan Muqeem happened during the Emerging Teams Asia Cup last year, and the incident was widely shared on social media. In the Emerging Teams Asia Cup, India A and Pakistan A were in Group B. On October 19, 2024, they played against each other at the Al Amerat Cricket Ground. In that match, Abhishek Sharma, opening for India, and Prabhsimran Singh got the team off to a fast start, scoring 68 runs in 6 overs. In the seventh over, Sufiyan Muqeem bowled, and Abhishek was dismissed attempting a big hit.
Following the dismissal, Sufiyan Muqeem signaled for Abhishek to return to the pavilion, leading to a verbal exchange. The umpires had to step in to mediate the escalating dispute. In that game, Abhishek Sharma scored 35 runs off 22 balls. India A scored 183 runs for 8 wickets in 20 overs, and in response, Pakistan A scored 176 runs in their 20 overs. The stage is now set for a rematch between these two players in the Asia Cup on September 14, potentially increasing the intensity of the match.