By Asif Naveed
Web Desk; On the eve of the much-anticipated Asia Cup 2025 final, Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha struck a bold and confident note, declaring that his team’s sole mission was to win the tournament.
“The only objective is to lift the Asia Cup trophy. We are not concerned about any external pressure,” Salman said during a packed press conference in Dubai.
Acknowledging the significance of a Pakistan-India clash, he admitted that both sides were under immense pressure. “It’s a big game, but the team that makes fewer mistakes will come out on top. Our focus will be to minimise errors,” he stated.
Addressing the recent handshake controversy, Salman voiced disappointment: “It’s not good for cricket. Despite political tensions, the handshake tradition was always respected. My father, a cricket fan, viewed it as a gesture that unites the game.”
Responding to persistent Indian media criticism, Salman was blunt: “We don’t care what they say. Our focus is only on the field and on winning the trophy.”
On his own performance, the captain admitted his strike rate needed improvement but assured he was working hard. He also backed young batter Saim Ayub, calling him “Pakistan’s future star for the next decade” due to his all-round contributions.
Commenting on India’s potential boycott threat, Salman replied firmly: “We are ready as per the rules. If they want to attend, fine. If not, that’s their decision.”
Closing on a passionate note, Salman added: “Aggression is part of the game, especially for fast bowlers. What happens off the field doesn’t matter. Our mission is victory, and we are determined to bring the trophy home.”
The Pakistan-India final will be played tomorrow in Dubai, starting at 6pm local time, in what promises to be one of the most thrilling encounters in recent cricketing history.
