Asia Cup 2025: India-Pakistan derby, Afghanistan’s strong start, and Ashwin’s criticism of the format

The Asia Cup 2025 is heating up: India and Pakistan captains vow not to dial down emotions, Afghanistan begins with a strong win, and Ravichandran Ashwin slams the tournament’s format.

India vs Pakistan: ‘No directive to dial down aggression’

Ahead of the high-stakes clash between India and Pakistan, both captains insisted their teams would play with natural intensity.

“Each player — especially bowlers — needs to express their style, as long as it stays within the rules,” said India captain Suryakumar Yadav.

Pakistan skipper Salman Agha added there had been “no instructions to soften emotions.” Despite political tensions earlier this year, both sides remain focused solely on cricket.

Afghanistan opens strong, but Trott demands consistency

Afghanistan launched their campaign with a commanding 94-run victory over Hong Kong. Sediqullah Atal (73) and Azmatullah Omarzai (53) led the way to 188/6 before bowling out the opposition for 94.

Still, head coach Jonathan Trott called for improvement:

“We need greater responsibility and steadiness among the batters.”

Trott stressed that the real challenge lies ahead in their clash against Bangladesh on September 16.

Ashwin: ‘This isn’t an opener, it’s just a curtain’

Veteran Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin criticized the Asia Cup format, pointing out the lack of high-level competition.

“This is not a curtain-raiser, it’s only a curtain,” Ashwin remarked.

He suggested that including India A could raise the standard and provide India with tougher contests.

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