India opt to bowl first after toss in Asia Cup Final
The much-anticipated Asia Cup final between India and Pakistan is underway in Dubai, with India winning the toss and electing to bowl first. A significant setback for Team India comes with Hardik Pandya sidelined by an injury, opening the door for a reshuffled line-up. Rinku Singh earns a coveted spot in the playing XI, while Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana miss out as Jasprit Bumrah and Shivam Dubey make a return to the squad.
As the teams take the field, the Indian camp will be hoping the fresh combination can translate into a strong start against a formidable Pakistan batting line-up. The final marks a rare clash between the subcontinent giants in a high-stakes setting, adding to the tension and excitement of the night.
India’s playing XI: three changes and a fresh balance
India have brought three changes to the XI:
– Out: Hardik Pandya, Arshdeep Singh, Harshit Rana
– In: Shivam Dubey, Jasprit Bumrah, Rinku Singh
India (Playing XI): Abhishek Sharma, Shubman Gill, Suryakumar Yadav (captain), Tilak Varma, Sanju Samson (wicketkeeper), Shivam Dubey, Rinku Singh, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Varun Chakravarti.
The lineup keeps a strong balance between aggressive top-order batters and versatile bowling options. Suryakumar Yadav’s leadership, combined with a potent Bumrah-led pace attack and Kuldeep’s wicket-taking spin, gives India a flexible plan for the chase of a demanding target.
Pakistan’s playing XI: unchanged and ready for the challenge
Pakistan have opted to stick with the same side that reached the final, showing confidence in their core group. Pakistan (Playing XI): Sahibzada Farhan, Fakhar Zaman, Saeem Ayub, Salman Agha (captain), Hussain Talat, Mohammad Haris (wicketkeeper), Mohammad Nawaz, Fahim Ashraf, Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, Abrar Ahmed.
With a robust batting line-up and a high-quality pace attack, Pakistan will be aiming to post a challenging total and apply pressure on India’s batsmen in the chase. Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf will be key with the ball, while the middle order will look to build partnerships against Indian bowling variations.
Key matchups to watch in a high-voltage final
Abhishek Sharma’s early runs
Abhishek Sharma has been in fine touch in the Asia Cup, delivering consistent starts and a high strike rate. His ability to accelerate at the start could set the tone for India’s innings, especially if Pakistan’s bowlers attack early and try to limit his ability to settle in.
Kuldeep Yadav versus Pakistan’s middle order
Kuldeep has been India’s most successful bowler in the tournament, boasting a leading tally of wickets. His flurries of spin could disrupt Pakistan’s momentum in the middle overs, especially if he capitalizes on any grip and turn enjoyed in the Dubai wicket.
Bumrah back in action against a compact Pakistan line-up
Jasprit Bumrah’s role as the pace spearhead will be crucial in the powerplay and death overs. His variations and accuracy will be tested against a Pakistan side with experienced batsmen who can capitalise on short-pitched spells.
What this final means for form and records
India arrives with a six-match winning streak, and the changes test the depth of a squad that has repeatedly shown it can adapt on big days. For Abhishek Sharma, another potential milestone could be crossing notable run marks, while Kuldeep Yadav chases another haul of wickets. Pakistan, meanwhile, will be eager to prove that their experienced core can overcome India in a continental showdown.
Where and when to watch
The Asia Cup Final is scheduled for a night game in Dubai, with the first ball expected around 8 PM local time. Fans can follow live updates across trusted sports portals and broadcasters, as both teams look to lift the trophy in a thrilling finale.
Note: Weather and match conditions can influence the final schedule. Stay tuned for live scores and key moments as they unfold.
