The Asia Cup 2025 is in full swing, with exciting matches unfolding. The Super-4 stage is underway, where teams are competing for a place in the final. The second match in this stage will feature India and Pakistan. Pakistan aims to overturn their defeat in the group stage against India, a challenging prospect. The team might consider major alterations in their playing 11 for this match.
Expect significant changes in the Pakistan team for the match against India. Given the recent performances, the opening pair may be changed. Young opener Sam Ayub has failed to deliver, being dismissed for zero in three consecutive games. This could result in a demotion in the batting lineup. Despite his bowling with six wickets, his batting form might lead to a move to the middle order.
Fakhar Zaman could replace Ayub as opener, having experience in this position and currently in good form. Mohammad Haris, who offers both wicketkeeping and batting capabilities, might also be given the opportunity. He currently plays in the lower order, having previously opened the innings.
Haris Rauf, who wasn’t selected for the group stage match against India, is likely to be included. He showcased excellent bowling in Pakistan’s previous match, taking two wickets. However, since the Dubai pitch is known to favor spinners, Pakistan only used one fast bowler in the last match, which resulted in a seven-wicket loss.
**Predicted Pakistan Playing XI:**
Fakhar Zaman, Sahibzada Farhan, Salman Ali Agha, Mohammad Haris (wicketkeeper), Sam Ayub, Khushdil Shah, Hasan Nawaz, Mohammad Nawaz, Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, Abrar Ahmed.