‘We Want to Play Fearless Cricket’ – Saim Ayub Ahead of India vs Pakistan Clash in Asia Cup 2025

Pakistan opener Saim Ayub has made a bold and confident statement ahead of the highly anticipated Asia Cup 2025 clash with India, a match that has once again captured the imagination of millions of cricket fans across the globe. After his mixed performance against Oman—where he was dismissed for a duck but redeemed himself with two important wickets—the left-hander showed composure while addressing the media. The Pakistan-India fixture, scheduled for Sunday, September 14, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, is always more than just a game, and the pressure on players is enormous. Yet, Saim appeared calm, focused, and eager to make his mark on one of cricket’s grandest stages.

Speaking to reporters, Saim emphasized the message given by the team management over the last few months. “For the last 3–4 months, the message from our team management has been to learn from the past and move forward. We don’t want to dwell on the past or think too much about the future,” he said, highlighting a mindset shift within the Pakistani squad. The young opener insisted that the team is fully focused on the present challenge, preferring not to get distracted by history or future expectations.

Saim Ayub’s dual ability as an opening batter and a handy part-time spinner makes him an important figure in Pakistan’s lineup. Against Oman, despite failing with the bat, his two wickets provided Pakistan with crucial breakthroughs, proving his value as a multi-dimensional player. His role becomes even more vital in a pressure-filled game against India, where even a single moment can tilt the balance of the contest. Pakistan will need Saim to rise to the occasion with the bat, but his bowling could also play a surprise role against the star-studded Indian lineup.

Talking about Pakistan’s approach in the Asia Cup, Saim laid out a clear and fearless philosophy. “Our goal is to play fearless cricket against everyone. This is going to be a big match for the people. We don’t look at it like that as a team. We look at the next match and follow the same process day by day. Memories don’t matter. This tournament matters the most. We are not just waiting for the Pakistan-India match. We are looking forward to winning the tournament,” he stated confidently.

This approach reflects the renewed intent of Pakistan’s young squad, which is trying to shed the weight of history and expectations. Matches against India have often been overshadowed by external factors, political undertones, and the emotional baggage of previous results. However, Saim’s comments suggest that the team wants to focus purely on cricket, treating India as just another opponent, while still respecting the passion that such matches generate among fans.

The build-up to this encounter has been unique, as it is the first match between the arch-rivals following the Pahalgam attack and India’s subsequent Operation Sindoor. For a while, there were serious doubts about whether the clash would even go ahead, with speculations of political intervention casting uncertainty. However, the government clarified its stance: while there will be no bilateral series between India and Pakistan, both nations can continue to face each other in multi-nation tournaments. That confirmation has paved the way for this blockbuster encounter in Dubai, ensuring that the traditional rivalry lives on.

For fans, the match is not only about cricket but also about pride, emotions, and national spirit. But for Saim Ayub and his teammates, it is about focusing on the process, sticking to their fearless approach, and ensuring Pakistan has the best chance of lifting the Asia Cup. Whether he shines with the bat, makes an impact with the ball, or both, Saim Ayub’s mindset and confidence are already providing a morale boost to Pakistan’s campaign. With his eyes firmly set on the bigger goal of winning the tournament, Saim has set the tone for what promises to be another memorable chapter in the legendary India-Pakistan cricket rivalry.