India and Pakistan have met 19 times in Asia Cup tournaments. Out of these encounters, India have claimed victory in 10 games, while Pakistan have won six. Three matches ended without a result, showing just how closely contested this rivalry has often been. The intensity of this rivalry was clear in Dubai on the eve of the latest clash. India’s assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate, a former all-rounder from the Netherlands, faced a press room packed with questions that went far beyond combinations and tactics. Would players carry the sentiments of the public? Had India prepared differently for Pakistan? How was this match different from other India-Pakistan games?
Ten Doeschate remained measured in his answers. The players were aware of public sentiment, but they would put it aside. Preparations had not changed, and there were no illusions about being favourites. What mattered, he said, was that this fixture is never just about cricket. Players, coaches, administrators and even a city like Dubai are pulled into the intensity, but whether the cricket on the field can match it remains to be seen. India enter this game as a strong side. Across formats and conditions, they have shown consistency, particularly in T20Is where they have embraced attacking batting and freedom in the middle order. Pakistan, under Mike Hesson, are working to reach that level, but the gap remains. Interestingly, two of Pakistan’s three T20I wins against India have come in Dubai. Pakistan come into the match after winning a tri-series, though they were pushed to the edge several times. Their spin-heavy attack can trouble India, but India’s batting order is in rhythm, and their spinners are looking sharp. Ten Doeschate emphasised that even small details matter, as every delivery in an India-Pakistan game begins well before it leaves the bowler’s hand.India are likely to stick with a similar combination from their opening win against UAE. Shubman Gill, who was hit in the nets, resumed training and appeared fit. Sanju Samson may continue in the middle order, providing balance and options alongside Shivam Dube, Hardik Pandya and the spin trio of Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakaravarthy.
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Pakistan’s squad is fully available and unchanged after their opening victory. Mohammad Nawaz, who has excelled in Pakistan’s recent series wins, will be a key figure with the ball. The likes of Shaheen Afridi, Sufiyan Muqeem and Abrar Ahmed will support him, while Saim Ayub and Fakhar Zaman provide firepower at the top. Ryan ten Doeschate summed up the mood: “We’re aware of people’s feelings, at the same time we’ve got to go out, and the guys get a chance to play for their country, and they’ll be as professional and focused as they can be given the circumstance.” Pakistan star Saim Ayub added: “We are not just looking forward to the Pakistan-India match, but we are looking forward to winning the tournament.” This clash promises all the drama, pressure and spectacle of an India-Pakistan showdown. On paper, India look strong, but in this rivalry, anything can happen.
