By Zainab Shafiq 
As the cricketing world gears up for the high-voltage Asia Cup 2025 final between India and Pakistan, tensions between the two sides have spilled far beyond the boundary rope. The controversy around the handshake snub on September 14 and September 21, India’s political undertones since the Pahalgam episode, and repeated statements from India’s captain Suryakumar Yadav have all added to the charged atmosphere. Against this backdrop, Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha faced the media for the pre-match conference on the eve of the final, striking a measured but firm tone.
All Statements from Salman Ali Agha’s Pre-Match Conference
When asked if India would feel greater pressure since they have already beaten Pakistan twice in the tournament, Salman was direct. “Look, it’s a final. Pressure is always there for both teams. India may have won two games, but if they lose this one, there will be a lot of backlash too. We’ll just focus on giving our best and trying to win the final. As for what their media says, that has nothing to do with us. They can say whatever they like.”
Pakistan has looked strong against Sri Lanka and Bangladesh but faltered twice against India. Addressing why his side has struggled specifically in this rivalry, Salman admitted the reality. “Yes, there is always extra pressure in Pakistan-India games. If we say otherwise, it would be wrong. The truth is, we’ve made more mistakes against them. Whichever team makes fewer mistakes usually wins. Our focus will be to minimize errors in the final.”
Attention soon shifted to his own form and leadership style. “Of course, I’d like to perform better for my team. About strike rate, every player has a role. Sometimes seniors are dropped because of strike rate concerns, but for me it’s about what the situation demands. I try to play according to the team’s needs.”
On whether Pakistan’s bowling attack will see tactical adjustments after the shift from low-scoring to high-scoring games, Salman said flexibility was key. “We always try to respond to conditions. In the earlier games, spin was effective, so we opened with spinners. Later, there wasn’t much spin, so we relied more on pace. Tomorrow we’ll decide based on what the pitch demands.”
As captain, Salman also emphasized balancing aggression and respect. “Every individual has their own style. If a fast bowler shows aggression, that’s fine — it’s part of his game. I give players freedom as long as they don’t disrespect opponents or the country. Everyone knows how to handle their emotions.”
Naturally, the conversation returned to the handshake controversy. Both group stage and Super Four encounters ended without the customary post-match handshake, fuelling political debate. Salman did not hold back. “Honestly, I’ve never seen two teams finish a game without a handshake in all my years of cricket. Even my father, who’s been following the game for decades, never mentioned such a thing. It shouldn’t have happened. But for us, the focus remains on playing good cricket. Aggression is welcome on the field, from either side, but respect must remain.”
Amid the media noise, Salman stressed the importance of focus. “We don’t focus on things beyond our control. Media talk or off-field issues don’t matter to us. Our only goal is to play good cricket and win the Asia Cup.”
When asked about the toss, he dismissed its significance. “I don’t think toss has had major importance in this tournament. It’s not in our control. What matters is how we execute our plans over 40 overs.”
Pakistan’s bowling remains their strongest weapon, especially with Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf in rhythm. Salman echoed this confidence. “InshaAllah, our aim is to play our best cricket. If we execute our plans properly for 40 overs, we can beat any team. That’s what we’ll try to do.”
Reports from Indian media that their captain declined a joint photoshoot also surfaced. Salman brushed it off. “That’s their decision. We are focused on our goals. If they come, fine. If not, that’s up to them. It won’t affect us.”
The presser ended with Salman backing his under-fire opener, Saim Ayub, who has faced scrutiny for his inconsistent batting. “Saim is a player who can serve Pakistan for the next ten years. Yes, he hasn’t scored big runs with the bat, but look at his bowling and fielding — he’s contributing in every match. Such players must be backed. I fully believe he will play a good innings in the final, InshaAllah.”
With politics, media noise, and rivalry fueling the stakes, Salman Ali Agha’s message was clear: Pakistan’s focus remains on execution and respect. Whether that will be enough to overcome India and script redemption in the final remains the question fans across Asia await to see answered.
Himadullah Sohoo