Pakistan’s spin attack could trouble India in Asia Cup clash: Manjrekar

Former Indian cricketer and veteran commentator Sanjay Manjrekar believes Pakistan’s spin-heavy bowling unit could pose serious challenges to Indian batters in their high-stakes Asia Cup 2025 encounter in Dubai on Sunday.

Traditionally celebrated for producing world-class fast bowlers, Pakistan have reshaped their strategy for the tournament in the UAE, opting for a spin-led attack tailored to local conditions.

The adjustment has paid dividends, with back-to-back wins against Afghanistan in the tri-series final and Oman in their Asia Cup opener.

“I like this bowling combination because it’s India vs Pakistan, and I feel this attack might give the Indian batters something different to think about,” Manjrekar remarked while analyzing Pakistan’s campaign.

Drawing comparisons with past Pakistan lineups, the 60-year-old humorously added that legendary pacer Wasim Akram “would hate it” as there is “hardly any pace on show.”

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While praising Pakistan’s bowling, Manjrekar underlined the need for stronger batting performances against India. He also credited white-ball head coach Mike Hesson for innovative use of resources, including Saim Ayub’s surprising role as a regular bowler.

“Batting will need a little improvement against India, but credit to Mike Hesson for making the most of the resources he has.

Saim Ayub has hardly bowled for Pakistan in the past, but under Hesson, he’s bowled in almost 90% of the innings,” Manjrekar noted.

Highlighting Pakistan’s bold tactical shift, he concluded: “Can you imagine the first six or eight overs? Just two overs of pace, and the rest all spin. Incredible.”