Pakistan cricket has once again found itself in the spotlight for reasons beyond the field in the ongoing Asia Cup. The handshake saga involving Suryakumar Yadav and the Indian team sparked tensions within their camp, escalating to the point where Pakistan even threatened to boycott the tournament.
Their grievance centred on match referee Andy Pycroft, whom they accused of acting against the Spirit of the Game.
Pakistan demanded Pycroft’s removal, warning that they would withdraw from the competition otherwise. Eventually, the ICC agreed to replace him, but only for Pakistan’s upcoming match against the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in Dubai on Wednesday. This led and agree to play.
However, their on-field challenge remains. Pakistan still face the risk of an early exit-if the UAE win their final league match, the two-time champions could be knocked out before the Super Four stage. Salman Agha’s side must now quickly shift focus back to cricket after all the distractions of the handshake controversy.
The Asif Khan threat for Pakistan
Pakistan cannot afford to underestimate the UAE, especially after their spirited performances in the recently-concluded tri-series in Sharjah. They are well aware of the damage Asif Khan can inflict-he hammered a 35-ball 77, studded with six fours and as many sixes, against Pakistan in one of the league games. Though , Asif’s fireworks served as a clear warning.
Equally dangerous is UAE captain Muhammad Waseem, a cornerstone of their batting lineup. With 183 sixes in just 84 T20Is, Waseem has built a reputation as a power hitter. Only days ago, he struck a 54-ball 69 against Oman, underlining his threat.
Stay updated on Asia Cup 2025 with India Today! Get match schedules, team squads, live score, and the latest Asia Cup points table.
Pakistan, meanwhile, have been struggling with the bat. Opener Saim Ayub, considered their top-order mainstay, has endured back-to-back ducks. Skipper Salman Agha has also failed to find form, falling for a duck against Oman before further struggles in the India clash.
Their bowling hasn’t fared much better. Apart from Ayub-who surprisingly picked up three wickets against India despite not being a frontline bowler-none of Pakistan’s bowlers made an impact in the high-profile clash against India.
All things considered, Pakistan face a stern test. If they are to avoid an upset against the UAE, they will need both their batting and bowling units to step up decisively.
Pakistan vs UAE: Pitch Report
The pitch in Dubai is expected to be a sporting one with batters and bowlers expected to get help in equal proportions. Teams batting second have won three out of four games and hence, chasing should be the way forward.
Pakistan vs UAE: Match Details
Pakistan and UAE will play at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium in Dubai. The match will start at 8 pm IST.
Pakistan vs UAE: Livestreaming
The tournament will be livestreamed on the SonyLiv app. The matches will also be broadcast on Sony Sports Network.
Pakistan vs UAE: Probable Playing XIs
Pakistan Probable Playing XI
Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Mohammad Haris (wk), Fakhar Zaman, Salman Agha (c), Hasan Nawaz, Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf/Haris Rauf, Shaheen Afridi, Sufiyan Muqeem, Abrar Ahmed
UAE Probable Playing XI
Alishan Sharafu, Muhammad Waseem (c), Muhammad Zohaib, Rahul Chopra (wk), Asif Khan, Harshit Kaushik, Dhruv Parashar, Haider Ali, Muhammad Rohid Khan, Muhammad Jawadullah, Junaid Siddique