'How is the morale?': Former Pakistan captain Waqar Younis questions team's mood ahead of final vs India

The Asia Cup 2025 final between India and Pakistan in Dubai witnessed drama even before the match began, with an unusual twist at the toss on Sunday.

In a rare arrangement, two broadcasters shared duties: former India coach Ravi Shastri interviewed India’s captain Suryakumar Yadav, while ex-Pakistan skipper Waqar Younis spoke to Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha.


After India won the toss and opted to bowl first, Waqar set the tone by asking Pakistan’s leader a pointed question: “How is the morale?”

Also See: IND vs PAK Live Score Asia Cup 2025

The query highlighted the scrutiny Pakistan have been under after a turbulent run into the final, marked by patchy batting and inconsistent performances.

Salman Agha struck a confident note.

“Definitely happy to bat first. We are very excited and looking forward to this game. We haven't played a perfect game and hopefully we play one today. Same side. We have been playing on these pitches for a while and it will play the same,” he said.

India, meanwhile, announced three changes.

“We are looking to bowl first. It looks like a good wicket. The wicket gets better under lights. We have been batting well first but we would like to chase today. The groundsmen have done a terrific job with the wickets here and it will stay the same," he added.

"The brand of cricket we have been playing for the last 5-6 games is pretty good and we would like to continue that. Unfortunately, Hardik misses out due to a niggle, Arshdeep and Harshit also miss out. Bumrah, Dube and Rinku come in.”

The high-voltage clash marks the third meeting between the arch-rivals in this edition, with India holding the edge after two earlier wins.


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