Will India win it in the first six? Aakash Chopra urges ‘close the game at the top’ ahead of Pakistan Asia Cup clash

Devansh Poddar

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Will India win it in the first six? Aakash Chopra urges ‘close the game at the top’ ahead of Pakistan Asia Cup clash image

In a historic first, India and Pakistan are set to meet in the finals of the ACC Men's Asia Cup. The marquee clash between the arch-rivals will be played on Sunday, September 28, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.

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Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra has now come up with some advice for the Men In Blue ahead of the all-important clash. He mentioned that the Indian side should look to go ahead in the game in the power play.

Aakash Chopra's advice to India ahead of the Asia Cup Final

The Asia Cup Final is expected to produce a thriller between two fiercest rivals. Both teams will meet for the third time in this tournament, with the Men in Blue coming on top in the previous two occasions.

Powerplay is often crucial, especially in the shortest format of the game. Team India has been phenomenal in their first six overs in this tournament and would want to display yet another good performance at the top.

On his YouTube channel, Aakash Chopra noted that the side that wins the power play is likely to win the game. The former cricketer also urged the India side to make full use of the new ball, both while batting and bowling.

More: Pakistan to drop Saim Ayub in Asia Cup final? An underperforming batter could face the axe ahead of the India clash

"I am absolutely convinced, 'win the power play, win the game.' In fact, a lot of times you have to close the game later, but with Pakistan, you close the game right at the top. If you can do that, you'll be in a very good position," said Chopra

How has India performed in the powerplay in Asia Cup 2025?

India was magnificent in the first six overs in their last two games against the Men In Green. In their first league game against the side, India picked up two big wickets inside the first three overs and pushed Pakistan behind. They additionally smashed 61 in the first six, chasing 128.

In the Super 4s game as well, the Indian openers got off to a flyer, scoring 69 in the first six.

The Men in Blue enter the game as the clear favorites. They are the world's No.1 T20I side, have been unbeaten in this edition so far, and would be high on confidence.

On the other hand, Pakistan would look to pull one back after a losing streak of 7 across formats over their rivals and want to have the last laugh by winning the title.

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Devansh Poddar

Devansh Poddar is a content producer for The Sporting News' India edition.