Arch-rivals India and Pakistan are bracing for a high-voltage clash as they lock horns in the Asia Cup 2025 final on Sunday in Dubai. The final showdown will mark their third meeting between the two sides in the ongoing tournament, setting the stage for a thrilling finish to what has been a fiercely contested event. India and Pakistan are set to meet in the final of the Asia Cup for the first time in the 41-year-long history of the tournament.

India enter the final with undefeated momentum, having won all their matches so far, including two convincing victories over Pakistan — once in the group stage and again in the Super Four. The defending champions have been extraordinary with both bat and ball, showcasing discipline and dominance throughout the tournament.

Captain Suryakumar Kumar has marshalled his troops with utmost perfection. On top of that, Abhishek Sharma, Shubman Gill, Tilak Varma and Kuldeep Yadav have consistently delivered standout performances. Moreover, India’s strength lies in collective execution, as has been seen in the past encounters. Batters have done their work, and bowlers have done theirs, making the task hugely effortless for the side, and we can say it’s a trait that’s helped them maintain an unbeaten run and now eye back-to-back Asia Cup titles.

Meanwhile, India have injury clouds hanging over Hardik Pandya and Abhishek Sharma, both of whom are nursing minor niggles. However, bowling coach Morne Morkel expressed confidence that the duo would be fit in time for the final.

For Pakistan, this final is about challenging India. After suffering two defeats, both at the hands of India, Pakistan will be aware of the magnitude of the challenge ahead. They’ve been brilliant throughout the tournament but have struggled to match India’s intensity. While star pacers Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf have contributed immensely, Pakistan will need a complete team effort to unsettle a well-oiled Indian unit. Pakistan's batting, in particular, has looked vulnerable under pressure, and the final provides a chance to address their mistakes and come back stronger.

IND vs PAK: Head-to-head in Asia Cup

Matches - 18

IND Won - 10

PAK Won - 6

No Results - 2

India likely XI: Abhishek Sharma, Shubman Gill, Suryakumar Yadav (c), Tilak Varma, Sanju Samson (wk), Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Harshit Rana, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Varun Chakaravarthy

Pakistan likely XI: Saim Ayub, Sahibzada Farhan, Fakhar Zaman, Salman Agha (c), Hussain Talat, Mohammad Haris (wk), Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, Abrar Ahmed