Countdown begins: Asia Cup final set as Pakistan face India tonight

The countdown to the Asia Cup final has begun, with the much-anticipated clash between traditional rivals Pakistan and India set to take place today at 7:30 pm, 24NewsHD TV channel reported on Sunday. 

According to the report, for the first time in 41 years, the two sides will meet in a title-deciding showdown. Every seat in the 28,000-capacity Dubai Stadium has been sold out.

India, under Suryakumar’s leadership, is banking on its strong batting arsenal, while Pakistan’s Shaheens plan to launch a fierce bowling attack. 

Fakhar, Farhan, and Saim are expected to target the boundaries, with sixes flying in Dubai and the roar echoing back home in Pakistan.

Cricket enthusiasts and loyal fans have sent messages of good luck to the national team, urging them to forget the past and focus on the future.

Supporters are hopeful the Shaheens will bring the trophy back to Pakistan. While some place their hopes on Fakhar and Saim, others await match-winning performances from Shaheen Afridi and Haris.

Ahead of the final, the Green Shirts underwent rigorous training in Dubai, practicing batting, bowling, and fielding at the ICC Academy. Coaches oversaw intensive net sessions to sharpen both batters and bowlers.

On the other side, controversy has flared after India once again tarnished the spirit of the gentleman’s game. 

Following their earlier refusal to shake hands with Pakistan, India’s stance has now overshadowed the Asia Cup trophy photoshoot, which was postponed due to their intransigence.

Fans reacted angrily, calling India’s behaviour nothing less than sheer stubbornness.

Pakistan’s captain Salman Ali Agha declared that his team’s only target is to win the Asia Cup and lift the trophy. He said he was fully prepared for the official photoshoot according to protocol, leaving it to the Indian captain to decide whether to attend or not. 

Agha also remarked he had never seen a match where two teams refused to shake hands, dismissing Indian media’s narratives as irrelevant. He confirmed that Pakistan’s final playing XI would be decided after assessing the pitch.

Asian Cricket Council President Mohsin Naqvi expressed his excitement for the final, saying this year’s tournament has showcased exceptional skill and talent. 

Mohsin Naqvi praised the fans’ passion and the teams’ strong performances, calling the event truly memorable. 

With record-breaking viewership expected for the final, Naqvi said he looked forward to witnessing an unforgettable contest and presenting the trophy to the winners.

Dubai police issues security plan for Asia Cup final

Dubai police on Sunday issued a security plan for the high-voltage Asia Cup final between Pakistan and India in Urdu to keep the packed stadium safe, reported 24NewsHD TV channel on Sunday.
Spectators have been advised to reach the venue at least three hours before the first ball is bowled. Authorities warned that each ticket will allow only a single entry.  Re-entry after leaving the stadium will not be permitted.

Dubai Police have banned flammable items, weapons, laser pointers, and fireworks. Tripods, selfie sticks, and glass objects will also be off-limits inside the stadium. Political banners or any unauthorized placards will not be allowed, the advisory added, urging fans to cooperate fully so the final can unfold in a festive yet secure atmosphere.

Organisers confirmed that the 28,000-capacity venue is now “house full,” with fans snapping up every seat in anticipation of the much-awaited clash. Earlier encounters between the arch-rivals during the tournament had already drawn huge crowds 20,000 spectators for the group match on 14 September and 17,000 for the Super Four clash on September 21.

However, the unprecedented demand for the final has outshone all previous contests, underscoring the unmatched hype and excitement surrounding the first-ever Asia Cup title decider between Pakistan and India.

Cash prizes:

The tournament champion will be awarded Rs260 million (approximately US$300,000), an increase of 50% compared to the 2022 edition, reflecting the tournament’s growing importance and commercial success. 

The second-placed team will also receive a significant prize of Rs130 million (approximately US$150,000), which financially rewards both finalist teams for their hard work and performance in the tournament. 

The best performing player in the tournament will also be awarded, with the ‘Player of the Series’ prize of Rs1.25 lacs, a recognition of the interest shown by the fans and the performance of the players.