During the cricket talk show Game On Hai, former Pakistani pacer Shoaib Akhtar created a viral moment with a comic blooper. While discussing Pakistan’s chances in the upcoming Asia Cup final against India, Akhtar said: “If Pakistan get Abhishek Bachchan out early on in a hypothetical situation, then what is going to happen with the middle-order? Their middle-order hasn’t performed well.”
Slip of Tongue Draws Laughter
The remark drew immediate laughter from the host and fellow panellists, who quickly corrected him. Akhtar had meant to refer to Abhishek Sharma, India’s rising opener, but accidentally named Bollywood actor Abhishek Bachchan. The moment highlighted the charged atmosphere around the final while also providing comic relief ahead of a fiercely contested clash.
Asia Cup Final Preview: India vs Pakistan
India and Pakistan will meet in Dubai for the Asia Cup title showdown, a fixture loaded with political and sporting tension. Pakistan secured their final spot after an 11-run win over Bangladesh, while India remain unbeaten in the tournament. Recent encounters between the sides have been intense, with players sometimes skipping post-match handshakes and celebrations taking on political symbolism.
India, defending T20 world champions, enter as favourites. Abhishek Sharma has been in superb form with consecutive half-centuries, while Kuldeep Yadav leads the wicket tally. However, India’s fielding has raised concerns, with 12 dropped catches attributed to the “ring of fire” effect under Dubai’s floodlights.
Pakistan, meanwhile, rely heavily on pace duo Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf, though their batting remains fragile. Akhtar’s mix-up added levity before a high-pressure final. While fans laughed at the slip, it underscored how Bollywood and cricket often intertwine in South Asia’s cultural imagination. When the teams take the field on Sunday, it will be the cricketers, not actors, deciding who lifts the trophy.