As India gears up for the Asia Cup 2025 final against Pakistan, former Pakistan opener Ahmed Shehzad has identified what he believes is the Men in Blue’s biggest vulnerability: the over-reliance on Abhishek Sharma at the top of the order. The 25-year-old opener has been in sensational form, scoring 309 runs in six innings at an extraordinary strike rate of 204.64. His tally includes 31 fours, 19 sixes, and three half-centuries, with a top score of 75*.
Sharma has been pivotal in India’s wins against Pakistan so far. In the group stage opener, he blasted 31 off 13 balls, guiding India to a seven-wicket victory. He followed it up in the Super Four stage with a scintillating 74 off 39 balls, featuring six fours and five sixes, as India chased down 172 effortlessly. Despite his brilliance, India’s batting lineup has faced criticism for constant shuffling, and Suryakumar Yadav has struggled with form, making Sharma’s performance even more crucial.
Speaking to Geo TV, Shehzad suggested that Pakistan’s best chance lies in dismissing Abhishek early. “If Pakistan get Abhishek Sharma out early, then the rest of their batting lineup isn’t in great form and Pakistan can get on top,” he said, highlighting the opener’s influence on the match.
Backing Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha, Shehzad added, “Ever since Agha took charge, Pakistan has won series against Bangladesh, West Indies, and tri-nation tournaments. They’ve now reached the Asia Cup final. His leadership can’t be undermined, even if there are minor questions about his batting. If he starts bowling well, that will also settle.”
Shehzad also analyzed how Pakistan can tackle Sharma. “If you observe his past games, balls from left-arm pacers that are short of length, moving away from him, seem to trouble him. You need to challenge his ego with a few dot balls, apply pressure, and he might play overconfidently. If Pakistan can get him out early, it gives them a big chance,” he explained.
Shaheen Shah Afridi, Pakistan’s spearhead, will be key to this strategy. Currently third on the tournament’s wicket-takers list with nine scalps in six matches, Afridi hasn’t been at his best lately but will look to bounce back in the summit clash against India. His battle with Abhishek Sharma could well decide the outcome of the Asia Cup final in Dubai.
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