Pakistan's cricket team is brimming with confidence as they head into the Asia Cup 2025 final against arch-rivals India, with captain Salman Ali Agha and pace spearhead Shaheen Shah Afridi both asserting their belief in the team's ability to win. Their statements come after Pakistan secured a hard-fought 11-run victory over Bangladesh in the Super Four stage, sealing their place in the final.

Agha acknowledged that there is always room for improvement, but he expressed strong faith in his team's capabilities. "If you can win these kinds of games, you must be a special team," Agha said, praising the bowling performances of Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf. He also lauded Mohammad Haris for his valuable contribution under pressure, noting his adaptability and consistent performance for the team. Despite admitting that they were around 10-15 runs short against Bangladesh, Agha praised the team's bowling, particularly with the new ball. "When you bowl the way we did up front, you create pressure, and it becomes tough to chase," he said. He also credited the team's improved fielding to the hard work of coach Shane McDermott. Looking forward to the final, Agha stated, "We are a good enough team to beat anyone, and we will come on Sunday and try to beat them," emphasizing the team's awareness of what is needed to win.

Shaheen Shah Afridi echoed his captain's confidence, declaring that Pakistan is ready to beat any team in the final. "We are here to win the cup, whichever team comes in the final, we are ready to beat them," he asserted. Afridi's remarks also addressed comments made by India's Suryakumar Yadav, who downplayed the India-Pakistan rivalry. Afridi brushed off these comments, saying, "It is his opinion, let him say that". He emphasized that Pakistan's focus is on winning the Asia Cup.

Afridi also dedicated his "Player of the Match" award, earned for his all-round performance against Bangladesh, to his wife and son. He highlighted the importance of early breakthroughs and credited his work on his slower ball for his success. "Early breakthroughs are crucial for us as a team, and I go for that," Afridi stated.

Pakistan's path to the final hasn't been without its challenges. They managed to accumulate 135/8 in their 20 overs against Bangladesh, with Mohammad Haris top-scoring with 31. Bangladesh fell short, scoring 124/9, despite a determined 30-run knock from Shamim Hossain. Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf each took two wickets to lead Pakistan's bowling attack.

While India has won both previous encounters against Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2025, Pakistan is determined to reverse this trend in the final. Agha has expressed confidence in his team's ability to avenge those defeats. The final match marks the third time the two teams will meet in the tournament.

Despite India's recent dominance in T20Is against Pakistan, Shaheen Afridi's bold declaration and Salman Agha's unwavering confidence suggest that Pakistan is approaching the final with a fearless mindset. The team is united in its goal to win the Asia Cup 2025, and they believe they have the talent and determination to overcome any opponent.