The stage is set for another India–Pakistan showdown in the Asia Cup 2025, this time in the Super Four. Pakistan enter the contest under heavy criticism after their group-stage loss to India, where the defending champions chased down 128 in only 15.5 overs. Former India opener Krishnamachari Srikkanth has launched a scathing attack on the Pakistan side, calling them a “seventh-division team” and insisting they no longer pose any threat to India. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Srikkanth said Pakistan should not be playing with top-tier nations and suggested they be grouped with Associate sides instead. “Going forward, Pakistan should not feature with the main teams. Put them with the Associate nations and bring in others to replace them. It is a privilege for Pakistan that they are even part of such a prestigious tournament,” Srikkanth remarked. The 1983 World Cup winner went further, claiming that the famed India–Pakistan rivalry has lost its significance. “These matches will not attract crowds anymore. This Pakistan team offers no scare factor. It is like a seventh-division side in a Chennai league,” he said. Pakistan scraped through to the Super Four after a tense win against the United Arab Emirates, defending 146 in their final group match. Srikkanth also took aim at head coach Mike Hesson, arguing that Pakistan are on the wrong path under his leadership. “Hesson will keep repeating how they are a good team and were unlucky against India, but with him in charge they will go nowhere,” Srikkanth said. Hesson, who previously coached New Zealand and IPL side Royal Challengers Bengaluru, was appointed as Pakistan’s head coach in May 2025.
