Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar has stirred debate ahead of the Asia Cup final, saying he expects India’s slip to come on Sunday when the two sides meet for the title clash in Dubai. Speaking on YouTube show “Game On Hai”, Akhtar stressed that Pakistan need to bring the same level of hunger they displayed in their Super Fours win against Bangladesh. “This is the kind of hunger we need on Sunday, that’s about it. The reason is that India is bound to have one bad day — that has to be Sunday,” he said. Akhtar also highlighted Pakistan’s bowling attack, suggesting that the side could make things very difficult for India if they put runs on the board. “Batting first, Pakistan can probably reach somewhere close to 200. If Pakistan manage that, then mentally India is going to go down like anything. Because this bowling… and just imagine, just imagine for a second — if there was one more genuine fast bowler. You really need one more genuine fast bowler,” he explained. He further praised the team’s intent in the Bangladesh game, pointing to the pace and consistency of the attack. “If that happens, I feel it will become a very unbeatable squad when it comes to bowling. But again, it’s up to the coach. I think the bowling was right up to the mark, and Haris’ pace was 142–145, Shaheen was at 144–140. It goes to show they were really, really hungry as a unit,” Akhtar added. His remarks came after Pakistan sealed their place in the final with an 11-run victory over Bangladesh in Dubai on Thursday. In a tense, low-scoring contest, Pakistan managed 135 for eight after being reduced to 49 for five. Cameos from Mohammad Nawaz (25 off 15) and Shaheen Shah Afridi (19) gave them momentum, before the bowlers delivered under pressure.
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Shaheen struck early with the new ball, while Haris Rauf’s double blow in the 18th over derailed Bangladesh’s chase. Shamim Hossain’s 30 kept them in the hunt, but Pakistan’s attack ensured the target remained out of reach. With the win, Pakistan set up the first-ever Asia Cup final against India, setting the stage for a high-voltage clash on Sunday.
