The stage is set for the much-anticipated Asia Cup 2025 final between India and Pakistan in Dubai, but Team India faces a major selection dilemma ahead of the blockbuster clash. Two key players are carrying injury concerns, forcing the management to rethink the balance of their playing XI just hours before the title decider. (India’s Predicted XI)
Double Injury Worry For India
According to team sources, opener Shubman Gill has been struggling with a niggle, while all-rounder Hardik Pandya has been under observation after picking up a minor injury in the Super Four stage. Both are crucial to India’s balance—Gill for his steady opening role and Pandya for his finishing abilities and bowling support. Their fitness updates will be decisive in shaping the final XI.
India’s Predicted XI vs Pakistan
Despite concerns, India is expected to go with their strongest possible lineup. Here’s the likely playing XI for the final:
- Rohit Sharma (C) – The captain will look to lead from the front with a solid start.
- Shubman Gill / Ruturaj Gaikwad – If Gill is unfit, Gaikwad may step in as opener.
- Virat Kohli – India’s anchor in big matches.
- Shreyas Iyer – Adds stability in the middle order.
- Suryakumar Yadav – The X-factor with his 360-degree stroke play.
- Hardik Pandya / Washington Sundar – Pandya if fit; Sundar as a bowling all-rounder option.
- Rishabh Pant (WK) – Aggressive wicketkeeper-batter who can change gears.
- Ravindra Jadeja – Vital for both spin and batting depth.
- Kuldeep Yadav – India’s trump card with the ball.
- Jasprit Bumrah – The leader of India’s pace attack.
- Mohammed Siraj – Adds firepower with the new ball.
What’s At Stake?
India enters the final with momentum after strong performances in the Super Four, but Pakistan will be equally determined to upset their arch-rivals. The injuries to Gill and Pandya may force India into tactical adjustments, but the depth in their squad offers enough cover.
The India vs Pakistan final is never short of drama, and with fitness concerns clouding India’s team selection, the intrigue has only deepened. Fans will be eagerly awaiting the toss to see if the Men in Blue can field their strongest XI in this high-pressure encounter.