Ignore the noise, enjoy the game, says Wasim Akram ahead of Pakistan-India Asia Cup clash

Former Pakistan captain and fast-bowling great Wasim Akram has urged players and fans from both Pakistan and India to focus on cricket rather than external pressures when the two teams meet in the Asia Cup T20 clash on Sunday.

The Group A encounter at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium will be the first meeting between the neighbours on the field since a military conflict four months ago strained bilateral ties further. Despite political tensions, India opted against boycotting the tournament.

“Enjoy, it’s a game of cricket. Forget about everything other than cricket. One team will win, and one team will lose,” Akram told AFP, adding that players must handle pressure with discipline.

The 59-year-old, who represented Pakistan for nearly two decades, recalled relishing high-pressure contests against India, including tours in 1987 and 1999 conducted amid political tension. A crowd of 25,000 is expected for Sunday’s match in Dubai.

Akram advised Pakistan’s relatively inexperienced squad to avoid being overwhelmed by the prospect of facing world champions India. He stressed the importance of maintaining focus on the broader objective of winning the Asia Cup rather than just targeting victory against their arch-rivals.

“Pakistan have a chance as they won a tri-series last week. They should not think that we just need to win against India, think of winning the Asia Cup,” he said.

He dismissed the likelihood of a one-sided contest, saying Pakistan’s form and recent 93-run win over Oman provided confidence ahead of the high-profile clash.