The Asia Cup 2025 has delivered some thrilling contests, and now the Super-4 stage is set, with teams vying for a place in the final. The second match of this stage will see India and Pakistan face off. Pakistan will be aiming to avenge their group stage loss against India, a task that won’t be easy. Significant changes might be made to Pakistan’s playing 11 for this game.
Some major adjustments are expected in the Pakistan team for the match against India. Based on recent performances, the opening pair could be altered. The young opener, Sam Ayub, has struggled, getting out for 0 runs in three consecutive matches. This situation might cause him to move down the batting order. Despite his bowling efforts, with six wickets, his batting struggles could lead to a shift to the middle order.
Fakhar Zaman might get a chance to open the innings, as he has done before and is currently in good form. Mohammad Haris, who can contribute with both wicketkeeping and batting, might also be considered. He currently plays in the lower order but has opened previously.
Haris Rauf, who was not part of the playing 11 in the group stage match against India, is likely to be included. His strong bowling performance in Pakistan’s recent match, with two wickets, makes him a strong contender. The Dubai pitch often favors spinners, influencing Pakistan to field only one fast bowler in the previous game, which resulted in a seven-wicket defeat.
**Pakistan’s Likely Playing XI:**
Fakhar Zaman, Sahibzada Farhan, Salman Ali Agha, Mohammad Haris (wicketkeeper), Sam Ayub, Khushdil Shah, Hasan Nawaz, Mohammad Nawaz, Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, Abrar Ahmed.