Pakistan captain Salman Agha declared his team ready for their Asia Cup Super Fours clash against India on Sunday, following a 41-run victory over the United Arab Emirates in their final Group A game.
Last week’s group-stage meeting between the arch-rivals ended in tension, with Indian players refusing to shake hands. “We are ready for any challenge,” Salman said after Wednesday’s win. “If we play good cricket, like we have in recent months, we’ll be good against any side.”
Pakistan advanced despite another stuttering batting display. Fakhar Zaman made 50, but opener Saim Ayub recorded his third straight duck. Salman admitted improvement was needed: “We got the job done, but the middle order must perform better.”
India beat Pakistan by seven wickets in their earlier encounter — the first match between the two since their military confrontation in May. The PCB later accused match referee Andy Pycroft of misconduct for allegedly telling Salman not to shake hands with Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav. The board threatened to withdraw but continued after Pycroft apologised.
If both sides progress, a third meeting is possible in the September 28 final.
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