India and Pakistan will face off on September 14 in one of the most anticipated clashes of the Asia Cup 2025. The build-up has already seen plenty of noise with both camps assessing the other's strengths and weaknesses.
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Speaking on PTV Sports, former Pakistan fast bowler Tanvir Ahmed strongly disagreed with Pakistan's head coach Mike Hesson's approach - arguing that India will not be under any pressure going into the contest.
Tanvir Ahmed says India won't feel the heat
Speaking on the show, Tanvir dismissed the notion that India carries pressure into the fixture. Instead, he stressed that Pakistan is under the spotlight, especially given the weight of expectation from their supporters.
"People are saying India are under pressure. No, they are not. A strong team never feels pressure when playing a weaker side. The pressure is always on the weaker team. Our players will be under more pressure because they have to figure out how to beat India," Tanvir said.
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Tanvir Ahmed criticises Mike Hesson
Tanvir also took aim at Pakistan's head coach Mike Hesson's approach on Pakistan's reliance on all-rounders. Pakistan leaned on their multi-skilled players to compete with Oman.
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Though they won the game against Oman by a sheer margin, Tanvir argued that the upcoming match against India will expose whether Pakistan's batting and spin attack can deliver under pressure.
"The real test is how your spinners bowl and how your main performers step up. If Pakistan play like they did today, with the same planning, they won't be able to beat India," Tanvir added.
While both teams will be keen to secure a win, Tanvir believes India has the mental edge. With the fixture looming, Pakistan's ability to handle pressure and execute plans could decide whether they can challenge their arch-rivals.
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