The Super Four stage clash between India and Sri Lanka on Friday ended in a nail-biting finish as India narrowly defeated Sri Lanka in a Super Over thriller.
This dramatic win confirmed India’s place in the Asia Cup final against arch-rival Pakistan. But the victory also brought fresh worries for Men in Blue, as injuries to Hardik Pandya and Abhishek Sharma have raised concerns ahead of the title clash.
India vs Pakistan Final: Injury concerns for key players
Pandya made an early impact by dismissing Sri Lanka’s Kusal Mendis in the very first over, but he had to leave the field immediately and did not return. Abhishek Sharma also limped off after the 10th over with a suspected hamstring strain.
Towards the end of the game, Tilak Varma looked uncomfortable as well, forcing India to bring in Jitesh Sharma, Rinku Singh and Shivam Dube as substitutes in the field.
India vs Pakistan Final: Bowling coach addresses injuries
Bowling coach Morne Morkel spoke to reporters after the match, clarifying that both Hardik and Abhishek were dealing with cramps due to the hot conditions. He said Hardik would be assessed further before a final decision, but assured that Abhishek was fine.
“So both of them struggled with cramps during the game. Hardik, I know we’ll see sort of tonight and tomorrow morning and we’ll make a call on that. But both of them were just struggling with cramps during the game,” Morkel explained. “Abhishek is fine,” he added.
Morkel also confirmed that India would skip training on September 27, the day before the final, to ensure players are rested and ready for the high-stakes clash against Pakistan.
“I don’t think there will be any training tomorrow. The boys are already in ice baths, and their recovery started straight after the game. The best way to recover is to sleep and stay off your feet. Hopefully, they can get a good night’s sleep and wake up refreshed tomorrow,” he added.
India vs Pakistan Final: Tactical changes on the cards
India chose to rest Jasprit Bumrah and Shivam Dube for their final Super Four match. The team will be hoping Hardik Pandya recovers in time, as his presence adds vital balance to the side. More importantly, his knack for performing under pressure, seen during the 2024 T20 World Cup final, could prove invaluable against Pakistan, who will be eager to avenge their two earlier tournament defeats to India.
If Hardik Pandya is unavailable, India are expected to include Arshdeep Singh, who played a crucial role in key moments on Friday despite a costly start to his spell.
India vs Pakistan Final: What to expect
As both teams gear up for a high-intensity clash under the Dubai lights, Hardik Pandya’s fitness could be a key factor in India’s chances. The final will be a true test of skill, strategy and composure, where every run and wicket could make the difference.
India and Pakistan are set to clash in an Asia Cup final for the first time in the tournament’s history. India have also maintained an unbeaten record against Pakistan in T20Is since a Super Four match in the 2022 Asia Cup.