Dubai: India’s build-up to the Asia Cup 2025 final against Pakistan has been overshadowed by uncertainty over the fitness of all-rounder Hardik Pandya. The star cricketer, who has been instrumental in India’s campaign with both bat and ball, was forced off the field in the semifinal after bowling just one over, sparking concerns about whether he will feature in the high-stakes clash in Dubai.
Pandya’s absence would leave a huge void in the Indian lineup, as his all-round abilities provide crucial balance between batting and bowling. Without him, the team faces a difficult choice—either bolster the pace attack by adding another seamer and weaken the batting depth, or strengthen the batting by bringing in a specialist batter but risk leaving the bowling unit stretched. Axar Patel may be promoted to number seven if Pandya is unavailable, though the side would still miss his versatility.
Losing Pandya would also heap added responsibility on Jasprit Bumrah and the rest of the bowling attack, particularly on a surface expected to be slow and low. His absence from the lower order could also test India’s batting depth in a pressure-filled contest.
The final call on Pandya’s participation hinges on a fitness assessment. If he is cleared, India will retain their tactical flexibility, but if not, the team will have to reshuffle and depend heavily on their specialists to deliver in one of cricket’s most anticipated encounters.
