Pakistan star Ayesha Zafar has played down the India-Pakistan Asia Cup 2026 clash despite the intense rivalry.
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Ayesha Zafar breaks silence on India-Pakistan Asia Cup 2026 clash(Photo: X)
Pakistan star all-rounder Ayesha Zafar has played down the hype around the much-awaited India-Pakistan clash in the Women’s Asia Cup 2026The two teams are set to face each other on Saturday at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, with plenty of attention around the contest.
While India have already secured their place in the semi-finals, Pakistan still have work to do in Group AThey started their campaign with a 35-run win over Thailand and will be looking to put up another strong performance against their neighbours.
‘Just another match’ for Pakistan
India-Pakistan games are usually surrounded by huge expectations, but Ayesha believes Pakistan need to keep things simple and focus on the cricket rather than the rivalry.
“Yes, it is India vs Pakistan, but this is just another match,” Ayesha said while speaking about the upcoming contest.
The Pakistan batter also made it clear that the team is taking the tournament one game at a timeWith India already through, Pakistan will be keen to use the high-profile clash as an opportunity to make a strong statement.
“It is our second match, so we are hoping to put up a good show and go towards winning it,” she added.
Pakistan focus on all three departments
Pakistan began their Asia Cup campaign with a convincing win over ThailandTheir batting initially struggled during the powerplay, but Muneeba Ali steadied the innings with a half-century before the bowlers helped the team complete a 35-run victory.
Ahead of the India game, Ayesha said Pakistan are not focusing on just one areaInstead, the team is working on batting, bowling and fielding as a complete unit.
“We cannot specifically focus on one thing, overall we have focused on all three,” she said.
India already through to semi-finals
India enter the contest in a comfortable position after securing a place in the last fourPakistan, meanwhile, have India and Hong Kong remaining in the group stage and need one win to put themselves in a strong position for qualification.
Pakistan captain Fatima Sana will lead the side in the tournament, with Ayesha Zafar also part of the 15-member squad.
The India-Pakistan clash is therefore important for Pakistan despite Ayesha’s attempt to keep the focus away from the rivalryFor India, it is another chance to continue their strong campaign, while Pakistan will hope to produce a performance that keeps their semi-final hopes firmly on track.
