Pakistan Selector Aaqib Javed Sends Strong Message Before Asia Cup 2025: “We Can Beat India, Like It or Not”

As the excitement ramps up for the Asia Cup 2025, Pakistan’s chief selector Aaqib Javed has made it clear that his team is ready to take on any challenge—including their fierce rivals India. Speaking ahead of the tournament which starts on September 9 in the UAE, Javed did not mince words about Pakistan’s belief and preparedness to win against India and others in the toughest contests on the continent.

“Biggest Match in World Cricket”

Placed in Group A alongside India, Oman, and the United Arab Emirates, Pakistan will find their biggest test in the blockbuster clash against India, scheduled amidst a backdrop of historic rivalry and political tensions.

Javed acknowledged this unique pressure but emphasized his team’s focus:
"Whether you like it or not, the match between India and Pakistan is the biggest in world cricket. Every player knows this."

He expressed confidence in his squad's ability to conquer any opponent:
"Our squad can beat any team. Everyone is ready. We are aware of the sensitive situation between the countries, but we don’t want to put extra pressure on our players because of that."

Squad Without Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan

Pakistan has made bold personnel choices with two former T20 captains, Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, notably absent from the Asia Cup squad as well as the upcoming T20 tri-series. Both players have not featured in Pakistan’s T20Is since December of last year.

Head coach Mike Hesson cleared the air on Babar Azam's situation, explaining that the star batter needs to work on his strike rate and develop a more aggressive style suited to modern T20 demands.
Hesson stated,
"Babar has been asked to improve in areas like taking on spin bowling and boosting his strike rate. He’s working hard on these aspects to get his place back."
He also called it "harsh" to judge a player’s form based on just a few games.

Looking Forward

The Asia Cup 2025 is not just another tournament for Pakistan; it’s a chance to reaffirm their stature and rivalry against India on the continental stage. With a squad confident in its ability and ready to embrace the pressure, the upcoming battles promise fireworks.

Fans around the cricketing world will be watching closely as Pakistan aims to prove Aaqib Javed’s bold claims and make their mark in the UAE this September.

This fresh resolve and squad restructuring underline ongoing transitions in Pakistan cricket as they blend youth, experience, and strategy in their race for Asia Cup glory.G