On September 21, the India vs Pakistan Super Fours showdown in the Asia Cup 2025 proved to be more than just a cricket match. The on-field antics of Pakistan’s Haris Rauf and Sahibzada Farhan elicited extensive criticism on social media, with various analysts and fans condemning the pair for their juvenile and disrespectful attitude.
Ahead of Pakistan’s final Super Four match against Bangladesh, pacer Shaheen Afridi was asked about Rauf and Farhan’s gestures. Afridi admitted that on-field celebrations should not be the team’s main focus, emphasising that their primary responsibility is to play cricket. The left-arm quickly minimised the criticism around Pakistan’s actions, stating that everyone is entitled to their own opinions.
“Look, our job is to play cricket. Honestly, everyone has the right to express the way they want to. Everyone has their own respect. Everyone thinks the way they think. But our job is to play cricket. And we have come to win the tri-nation Series. We have come to win the Asia Cup. And we, God willing, as a team, are doing our best,” said Shaheen as quoted by NDTV Sports.
PAK will beat Indians in the finals, Shaheen Afridi is confident
While the finalists are yet to be confirmed, Pakistan’s pace spearhead expressed confidence in his side’s ability to overcome India if they clash in the title decider on Sunday. Afridi also acknowledged that Pakistan have struggled to secure victories against top-ranked teams in recent times but stressed that the players are determined to turn things around.
“They have not reached the final yet. We will see when they reach the final. We have come here to win the final and win the Asia Cup. We are ready for any team that comes. We will defeat them. Yes, we haven’t won against big teams. You can say that we have grown in the rankings. But when you play against big teams, you win. The teams that are coming now, we are competing against them,” he added.
It is noteworthy to mention that the Men in Green have already endured two consecutive defeats against India in the ongoing edition of the continental competition. However, the two arch-rivals could potentially meet once again in the tournament final on Sunday, September 28, which will be played at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
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