After a nerve-racking but crucial 41-run victory over the United Arab Emirates in their final Group A match of the Asia Cup 2025, Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha sent a clear message: the Men in Green are ready for whatever comes next.  The victory over the UAE secured Pakistan’s spot in the Super Four stage, and with a high-stakes rematch against archrival India looming, Agha said the team is ready, focused, and hopeful.

The UAE Match: Scrappy but Crucial

Pakistan’s batting performance in the Group A match was not ideal. Batting first, they could only manage 146 for 9 in 20 overs. Fakhar Zaman started things off with a quick fifty, but as the top order crumbled, the innings stalled. They reached 110/7 after 16.5 overs. That’s where lower-order impact came in: Shaheen Shah Afridi’s quickfire 29 not out from 14 balls provided much-needed momentum.

The bowlers then stepped forward. Spinners and pacers both had effective spells in defending a modest target. The UAE were bowled out for 105 in just 17.4 overs, giving Pakistan a victory that was far from perfect but sufficient to see them through.

Agha’s Take: Confidence, but Eye on Weaknesses

Agha maintained a balanced tone during the post-match presentation.  Yes, he celebrated the victory, but he also acknowledged that there were issues that needed to be addressed.  He cited Pakistan’s batting middle order as the most concerning factor.  The team has struggled to form meaningful partnerships in the 7-15 overs range, falling short of par scores in several matches.

That said, Agha didn’t pull punches about their potential. “We got the job done but we still need to improve our batting in the middle order … we are ready for any challenge. If we play good cricket, like we have been playing for the last few months, I think we’ll be good against any side.”

He also praised some of the positive performances: Fakhar Zaman for stabilizing the top order, Shaheen Afridi for a late cameo with the bat, and spinners & bowlers who held their nerve to dismiss UAE fairly quickly.

The Bigger Picture: Rivalry, Controversy & Rising Stakes

The backdrop adds weight to Agha’s remarks. The previous group stage match between India and Pakistan sparked controversy; after that game, Indian players refused the customary handshake, a political gesture. Pakistan’s Board (PCB) had strongly objected, calling for changes in officiating, particularly against match referee Andy Pycroft. That dispute postponed the Pakistan-UAE match until Pycroft issued an apology, which Pakistan accepted.

Now that both India and Pakistan have advanced to the Super Four, their rematch on September 21 in Dubai will be more intense than usual—for fans, players, and officials. Agha’s confident “ready for any challenge” line is about more than just cricket; it also represents composure under pressure.

What Pakistan Needs to Do

To thrive in that rematch and beyond, a few aspects stand out:

Middle-order batting:  Turning those weak periods (overs 7-15) into stable scoring phases could mean the difference between 140-150 and 170-180, especially against strong opponents.

Consistency under pressure:  Pressure against the UAE resulted in wickets, and Pakistan was fortunate to strike late partnerships.  They may not be given as much leeway in more difficult matches.

 Staying focused:  Off-field distractions, such as controversies or external pressure, pose risks.  Agha’s insistence to “play good cricket” hints that staying centred will be essential.

Tight bowling performances: Their bowlers have kept them in games.  Maintaining this level of performance, particularly in powerplays and death overs, will be critical.

What Fans Should Know

Fans can find hope in Pakistan’s resilience.  Despite shaky batsmanship and political tension, the team found a way to win when it mattered most.  Agha’s leadership appears to be mentally stabilizing the squad, even if performances aren’t always stellar.

 The upcoming India match is significant—not just another fixture.  It’s an opportunity for redemption, to settle scores, and to demonstrate to themselves and their many critics that when it counts, Pakistan can deliver.  A strong performance will boost confidence among both fans and players.

Final Word

Politics, rivalry, and pressure are all part of international cricket’s narrative.  What matters most, however, is execution.  Salman Ali Agha has stated unequivocally that Pakistan is willing to face any challenge if they bring their best.  They’ll have to do exactly that in the Super Four stage.  If they do, they may be on their way to becoming title contenders again.