MUMBAI – India’s plans for the Asia Cup 2025 final have been hit hard, with Hardik Pandya sidelined for the India vs Pakistan showdown in Dubai tomorrow. The BCCI confirmed late on Sunday that the all-rounder will miss the match, a development that has shaken fans and analysts ahead of a high-pressure contest.
Pandya picked up a hamstring injury in the semi-final against Sri Lanka three days ago. He clutched his leg after his third over and left the field in visible pain. Early checks hinted at a minor strain, but scans on Friday showed a grade-two tear. According to team physio Dr Anil Sharma, Pandya needs at least two weeks of rest and rehab, and the team will not risk his long-term fitness.
His absence removes a key piece from India’s white-ball setup. Hardik Pandya’s impact with bat and ball gives balance and tactical freedom. He has 1,892 ODI runs and 86 wickets from 92 matches, and often delivers when the pressure rises. His burst of late runs or timely breakthroughs frequently swings tight games, exactly the type of influence needed in a final.
Hardik Pandya Played a Central Role
India’s route to the final has been impressive. After a narrow defeat to Bangladesh in the group stage, the side hit back with polished wins over Afghanistan, Sri Lanka and Australia. Hardik Pandya played a central role in that surge. His 62 off 28 against Afghanistan turned a tricky chase into a comfortable finish, and his three wickets in the semi-final, including Kusal Mendis, tilted the match India’s way. The question now is how the team covers that all-around punch.
Pakistan, led by Babar Azam, arrives in top form. Their new-ball trio of Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf has rattled batting orders throughout the tournament. India already faced a stern task. Without Hardik Pandya’s counterattacking batting and knack for breaking stands, the challenge grows. Former captain Sunil Gavaskar called the loss a body blow, noting that Pandya’s unpredictability often gave India an edge and that the think tank must review the entire plan.
The BCCI has drafted in Shivam Dube as cover, a move that has sparked debate. Dube brings power hitting and medium pace, but lacks Pandya’s experience and range. He has 363 runs at 30.25 in 21 ODIs, with one wicket. Former selector Kris Srikkanth said Dube has the tools but faces a stern test in a high-pressure final against a sharp Pakistan attack.
Senior Players to Step Up
Rohit Sharma sounded upbeat in his media briefing. He admitted the loss is significant but backed the group to adjust. He expressed faith in Dube to step up. Rohit also hinted at tactical tweaks. KL Rahul could shift to the middle order for stability, and the spin-bowling load may increase for Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel.
The India vs Pakistan rivalry adds weight to every moment. With no bilateral series since 2013, the Asia Cup often becomes their main stage. Pakistan have had the upper hand in a few recent marquee clashes, including the 2021 T20 World Cup and the 2017 Champions Trophy final.
A win in Dubai would carry extra meaning for Indian supporters, but Pandya’s injury makes the path steeper.
In Dubai, the mood around the Indian camp is determined but guarded. The squad’s depth will be on trial. Senior players like Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah and Suryakumar Yadav must lead the way. Supporters will miss Hardik Pandya’s swagger and spark, yet the belief remains that India can still mount a strong push for the Asia Cup title.
The cricket world now awaits a gripping final. India will feel the absence of their X-factor, but the contest still promises high stakes, bold calls and pivotal moments. Can this side absorb the setback and outplay their biggest rivals on the day? Tomorrow holds the answer.
