The Asia Cup 2025 is set to begin on September 9 in the United Arab Emirates UAE, and with the tournament just days away, teams are finalizing their squads. India and Pakistan have already announced their line-ups, with several high-profile players missing from both sides. The early squad announcements have sparked discussions among fans and analysts about team balance and strategies ahead of the continental showdown.
An unusual aspect of Asia Cup history adds extra attraction to this edition. Despite being fierce rivals in world cricket, India and Pakistan have never faced each other in an Asia Cup final. In the 41-year history of the tournament, spanning 16 finals, the arch-rivals have yet to meet in the summit clash for the first time so far.
The Asia Cup, first held in 1984, has seen India reach the final a record 11 times, facing Sri Lanka on nine occasions and Bangladesh twice, but never Pakistan. Pakistan, meanwhile, has made it to five finals, encountering Sri Lanka four times and Bangladesh once.