Despite Pakistan’s six-wicket loss to India in the Asia Cup Super Four clash on Sunday, Pakistani opener Sahibzada Farhan said the team is confident of meeting India again in the final next Sunday.
During Monday’s pre-match press conference, Farhan said, “We are fully confident that we will beat Sri Lanka and face India again in the final.”
Speaking about his unique celebration after reaching his half-century, Farhan explained, “I usually don’t celebrate after scoring 50. This was done all of a sudden. I don’t care what people think about it.”
He credited his batting partner Fakhar Zaman for boosting his confidence. “Having Fakhar Zaman at the other end gave me the belief to play my shots freely.”
The rivalry between Pakistan and India has become more intense after recent military clashes in May. In the first encounter, Indian players avoided the traditional handshake, turning sportsmanship on its head.
During the second match, players from both sides engaged in heated arguments. Indian fans were particularly offended by Haris Rauf’s gesture referencing Indian Rafales shot down by the Pakistan Air Force, which he made in response to Indian fans chanting “Kohli, Kohli” from the boundary line.
India on Sunday, comfortably chased down Pakistan’s target of 172 runs, winning the high-voltage contest with ease. Pakistan had started strongly, reaching 93 for 1 in 9.3 overs. Farhan played a brilliant knock of 58 runs off 45 balls to help his team post 171.
India are strong contenders for the final. Pakistan, meanwhile, can qualify by beating Sri Lanka and India in their remaining Super Four matches.
The Asia Cup final will take place on September 28 in Dubai, featuring the top two teams from the Super Four stage.