Asia Cup 2025: Pakistan’s former captain slams national team ahead of crucial ‘semi-final’

KARACHI: In a fiery outburst ahead of Pakistan’s crucial Asia Cup clash with Bangladesh, former Test captain Younis Khan has urged the national cricket team to focus on the game and leave politics aside. The legendary batsman voiced his frustration over the lack of consistency within the team, stressing that players should put the country’s interests first, not their personal agendas.

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Speaking to the media, Younis did not hold back, saying, “Players need to stop playing politics and start playing for the team. Consistency is the key. It’s not about playing for yourself; it’s about playing for the nation.” He also pointed out the rise of Shaheen Shah Afridi’s all-round skills, asserting that if Afridi can perform with the bat, then others should have no excuse to not contribute in all aspects of the game.

“Shaheen has shown he can be a potential all-rounder. There is no reason others can’t step up as well. Winning matches is about playing well, and that’s only possible if the team plans accordingly,” he added, underscoring the importance of strategy and teamwork.

Younis, who has always been an advocate for unity and discipline within the squad, took a swipe at frequent changes in the lineup. He warned that continuous tinkering with the team could have detrimental effects on performance. “Too many changes affect the team’s rhythm. Stability is key to success,” he added.

The former captain also voiced his thoughts on the ongoing political tensions, specifically pointing to the recent controversy over the India-Pakistan encounter. “Sports and politics should remain separate,” Younis said, adding, “The refusal of Indian cricketers to shake hands with our players was against the spirit of the game. If their government directs them to do so, that’s their issue, but we, as cricketers, should maintain the respect and integrity of the sport. If our government issues similar instructions, we would have to follow them as well.”

The former captain said that no team is number one or two in Asia. Rather, the team that wins on the day will be called the number one position.

PAKISTAN VS BANGLADESH IS NOW VIRTUALLY SEMI-FINAL

Looking ahead to today’s high-stakes encounter between Pakistan and Bangladesh, the match has taken on semi-final status. The winner will face India in the final. With the tournament in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) nearing its climax, India has already secured a spot in the final, topping the points table with six points from three matches.

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Pakistan, sitting second with four points, will be aiming to secure a direct final berth with a win over Bangladesh, who also have four points after two wins and one loss.

Pakistan’s path to the final is clear. Beat Bangladesh, and they’re in. A loss, however, could see them miss out on the title clash.