Following a series of fiery incidents, from handshake spurns to backroom connivances and even threats to pull out, India and Pakistan will face each other again in the Asia Cup 2025 Super Four at the Dubai International Stadium.
Although the on-field battle has slowly lost some of its edge, the off-field melodrama remains to keep the focus firmly on the match.
In their last match here, India trounced Pakistan by seven wickets, entering the Super Fours with authority. Captain Suryakumar Yadav’s authoritative six to seal the chase, along with his refusal to shake hands, ignited yet another storm on the field. Having completed the turnaround from Friday’s triumph over Oman, the Men in Blue have yet another high-voltage evening awaiting them in Dubai.
Dubai International Stadium Pitch Report
The Dubai surface has remained loyal to its image slow, providing grip for the spinners, and keeping the pacers on their toes under lights. Once settled, batters have found it simpler to score, but the slowness of the wicket ensures stroke-play is all about patience. The outfield is generally quick, although the size of the ground makes it difficult to clear the ropes, particularly against spin. Dew has not been a significant aspect in the recent games, but it is something captains will consider.
Toss Strategy
Captains will be inclined to bat first on this surface. The pitch slows down as the day wears on, and run-chases can be difficult against good spin and variation. A score of 160-170 can prove to be very tough here. With pressure games such as India vs Pakistan, however, the choice could also depend on managing scoreboard pressure teams chasing under lights in Dubai tend to have been unable to get their innings paced rightly.