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India have named an unchanged playing XI for their crucial Asia Cup 2025 clash against Pakistan. The omission of top wicket-taker Arshdeep Singh has sparked debate ahead of the match at Dubai.

Amidst heightened tensions following the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor, former cricketer and current Sports Minister Manoj Tiwary has announced his boycott of the upcoming India-Pakistan Asia Cup 2025 match. Citing numerous past terrorist attacks, Tiwary emphasized that human lives are more important than sports.

With Virat Kohli absent from the Asia Cup 2025, Shubman Gill faces his first T20I test against Pakistan. As vice-captain, his form and temperament could shape India's chances in the high-voltage Dubai showdown.

India face Pakistan in the Asia Cup without Kohli and Sharma, but a dominant win against UAE signalled their strength. Pakistan, despite a victory over Oman, showed vulnerabilities in their batting and spin attack. India, boasting a strong T20I record and recent form, enter as favourites amid a subdued build-up due to political tensions.

Kuldeep Yadav's mesmerizing spin dismantled UAE, securing India a dominant nine-wicket victory in their Asia Cup 2025 opener. Kuldeep's remarkable 4 for 7 earned him Player of the Match after seven years. India chased down the target swiftly, setting the stage for a high-voltage clash against Pakistan.

In an Asia Cup 2025 match, India defeated UAE by 9 wickets after Suryakumar Yadav withdrew an appeal, showing sportsmanship. UAE were bundled out for a mere 57, with Kuldeep Yadav claiming 4 wickets for 7 runs. Jasprit Bumrah's yorker dismissed UAE's top scorer, Alishan Sharafu.

There could be a toss-up between Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy for the specialist spinner’s role, while the part-time left-arm spin of Abhishek Sharma could come in handy. Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh are likely to share new-ball duties while Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube have been made to work on their bowling in the nets.

Shubman Gill and Abhishek Sharma will most likely walk out to open in India's first match in the Asia Cup on Wednesday. It won’t be the first time the duo will open — they have been doing this since their U-14 days. Beyond being opening partners, they have been childhood friends and understand each other’s game as well.

Pakistan captain Salman Agha has given his fast bowlers the green light to be aggressive during the Asia Cup, emphasizing that aggression is inherent to their game. He stressed the importance of playing good cricket and aiming to win the tournament. Agha acknowledged India's strong Asia Cup record but believes any team can win in T20 cricket.

Outside the ICC Academy ground in Dubai, Gautam Gambhir was also seen interacting warmly with supporters and signing autographs, further adding to the excitement building around India’s preparations. His popularity, both as a former player and now as a coach, continues to resonate strongly with fans.

Pakistan defeated Afghanistan by 75 runs in the tri-series final, with Mohammad Nawaz's hat-trick being the highlight. Nawaz's impressive figures of 5-19 helped Pakistan dismiss Afghanistan for a mere 66 runs. Captain Salman Agha expressed confidence in the team's readiness for the upcoming Asia Cup, emphasising their strategic use of spinners and overall team performance.

The BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India) secretary Devajit Saika has said that the board is following the government's stance ahead of playing against Pakistan in the upcoming Asia Cup 2025.

The Asia Cup 2025 is embroiled in controversy after Sony Sports Network's promotional video, highlighting the India-Pakistan rivalry, sparked outrage due to heightened tensions following a terror attack. Fans are calling for boycotts, overshadowing India's first major tournament without Kohli and Sharma. Suryakumar Yadav leads a youthful squad in Group A, facing UAE, Oman, and Pakistan.

India's Sports Ministry has clarified its stance on sports relations with Pakistan, prohibiting bilateral events but allowing participation in international tournaments where both nations are present. Additionally, Pakistani teams will be barred from competing in India. The ministry is also focused on attracting major sporting events by easing visa processes for international sports officials and ensuring proper protocol during their visits.