Its India and Pakistan again, but in the Asia Cup finals 2025. Even though the Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav had downplayed any kind of rivalry given the present scoreline, the ongoing geopolitical tensions as well as the recent drama regarding handshakes and gestures have caused a massive outrage this season. Meanwhile, the former Pakistan bowlers have fastened their seatbelts to spread some advice, hoping that the team might collect. Former Pakistani bowler Wasim Akram hopes that things can turn anytime, even though he considers India as the favourites. Speaking to media, Akram said, “The final is between India and Pakistan. India is definitely the favourite, but anything can happen. Pakistan must maintain confidence and momentum. They must believe in themselves and play smart cricket. If Pakistan takes early wickets, they can put India on the back foot. I hope the best team will win in the end." Break their aura: Shoaib Akhtar The former Pak pacer Shoaib Akhtar, however, is hopeful that Pakistan will bring out their best side in the finals. He feels that Abhishek Sharma is the key wicket and Pakistan must look to take wickets rather than go and bowl 20 overs. Speaking to Game On Hai show, he said, "Come out of this mindset, keep their aura aside. Just break their aura. Just play with this mindset that you had in the match against Bangladesh. This is the kind of mindset you need. You don't need to bowl 20 overs; you just need to get wickets." He added, "Mark my words, if Abhishek Sharma gets out in the first two overs, they will get in trouble. The starts they are getting, they are going to struggle if Abhishek gets out early. It's not like that, Abhishek will not mistime the ball; he will do that; you just need to go for the kill. If you come out fighting, India will realise that we have to work hard for our runs." Notably, the final match will be played on September 28, at the Dubai International Stadium. Both India and Pakistan have qualified for the final match after defeating Bangladesh.