The countdown to the much-anticipated Asia Cup 2025 final has already set cricketing circles abuzz, and former Pakistan captain Wasim Akram’s has weighed in with his sharp analysis. Known as the “Sultan of Swing,” Akram has offered his side a clear mantra on how to outclass India in the high-stakes clash.
Akram’s Tactical Blueprint
Speaking during a pre-final discussion on a sports channel, Akram stressed that Pakistan needs to focus less on emotions and more on execution. “Finals are won by discipline, not aggression. Pakistan must stick to basics, bowl wicket-to-wicket, and avoid giving freebies to Indian batters,” he said.
He highlighted the importance of early breakthroughs against India’s top order, particularly Abhishek Sharma and Virat Kohli. According to him, restricting India in the first 10 overs could tilt the contest in Pakistan’s favor.
Key Role For Pace Attack
Akram, himself one of the most lethal left-arm pacers in history, urged Pakistan’s bowlers—Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, and Naseem Shah—to channel their energy smartly. “You don’t win by sledging or gestures; you win by hitting the right areas ball after ball. If the pacers stick to a tight length, India will feel the pressure,” Akram explained.
He also advised spinners to vary their pace and flight, given that Indian batters are comfortable against conventional spin.
Focus On Middle Overs And Running Between Wickets
Another crucial aspect of Akram’s “guru mantra” was Pakistan’s batting discipline. He warned against reckless shot selection in the middle overs, urging players to rotate strike. “Singles and doubles will win you finals. Dot balls build pressure, and against India, pressure leads to wickets,” he added.
He singled out captain Salman Agha and Fakhar Zaman to anchor the innings while allowing stroke-players like Babar Azam and Sahibzada Farhan to play their natural game.
Mind Over Matter
Akram repeatedly stressed on mental strength, reminding players of the historic pressure of an India-Pakistan final. “India thrives on big-match temperament. Pakistan needs to match that calmness. Stay composed, because one mistake can change the course of the match,” he said.
Fans React To Akram’s Advice
Cricket fans across social media welcomed Akram’s pragmatic analysis. While many Pakistani supporters hailed his insights as a “masterclass,” Indian fans cheekily remarked that his “guru mantra” still may not be enough to stop India’s momentum in the tournament.
As India and Pakistan gear up for the Asia Cup 2025 final, Wasim Akram’s words carry weight not just as advice but as a reminder of the razor-thin margins that define Indo-Pak contests. Whether Pakistan can implement his “guru mantra” effectively will only be answered on the field, but one thing is certain—the cricketing world is braced for a clash of epic proportions.