'Excitement is 101': Abhishek Nayar ahead of IND vs PAK Asia Cup 2025 final

Divy Dubey

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'Excitement is 101': Abhishek Nayar ahead of IND vs PAK Asia Cup 2025 final image

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India and Pakistan are set to meet in an Asia Cup final for the first time in 41 years. The wait has been long, the anticipation intense and the setting could hardly be more dramatic: a sold-out Dubai stadium, millions tuning in across both nations and a tournament that has built itself around this very rivalry.

Both sides bring their own stories into the final: India with their dominance through the campaign, Pakistan with their unpredictable edge that has produced sudden swings of brilliance.

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Abhishek Nayar rates excitement level '101' ahead of IND vs PAK Asia Cup final

Speaking on Sony Sports, former India all-rounder Abhishek Nayar was asked to put his excitement for the clash on a scale of 100. His reply summed up the mood on both sides of the border:

"101," Nayar said with a smile, reflecting the anticipation surrounding what promises to be one of the most watched matches of the year.

More: IND vs PAK Asia Cup 2025 final: Harsha Bhogle on ‘what is likely to happen’ in Dubai showdown

India come into the final with a clear edge - having beaten Pakistan twice already in this tournament. Captain Suryakumar Yadav even claimed during the campaign that the rivalry was "not a rivalry anymore," citing India's 12-3 record in T20Is.

Yet history offers reminders of Pakistan's ability to flip narratives. From Sharjah in the '80s and '90s to the Champions Trophy final in 2017, Pakistan have sprung surprises when least expected.

More: ‘Pressure on both sides’: Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha ahead of IND vs PAK Asia Cup 2025 final in Dubai

The build-up has often been about more than cricket: handshake controversies, sanctions for over-the-top celebrations and fiery comments in press conferences. But Sunday is about bat and ball.

With Abhishek Sharma, Saim Ayub, Varun Chakaravarthy and Fakhar Zaman all in focus, the final is a chance for the cricket itself to take center stage. Whatever happens, the Asia Cup 2025 final promises to leave a mark far beyond Dubai.

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Divy Dubey

Divy Dubey is a content producer for The Sporting News' India edition. He has a passion for cricket and is an avid fan of football. His work spans culture, media, and digital trends. With a background in research and a curiosity-driven approach, he enjoys crafting thoughtful, engaging stories that invite readers to see everyday topics in a new light.