india vs pakistan asia cup final | hardik pandya injury update | all eyes on abhishek and Bumrah

Hardik Pandya Injury Concerns: India's star all-rounder faces fitness doubts after suffering cramps during the Sri Lanka Super Over thriller. A crucial fitness test was scheduled before the final, with team management remaining tight-lipped about his availability. His absence would be a massive blow to India's balance. Abhishek Sharma's Record-Breaking Tournament: The explosive opener has rewritten Asia Cup history, becoming the first batsman ever to score 300+ runs in a single T20 Asia Cup edition. With 309 runs in just 6 innings, he surpassed Mohammad Rizwan's previous record of 281 runs from 2022. His three consecutive fifties in Super Four stage - including match-winning 74* against Pakistan - make him India's tournament star. Abhishek's seven consecutive 30+ scores equals the world record held by Rohit Sharma and Mohammad Rizwan. Jasprit Bumrah Under Pressure: India's pace spearhead has endured a rare off-tournament with concerning figures - only 3 wickets at economy rate of 8.36. His 0/45 against Pakistan in Super Four marked his worst spell since 2022. Despite struggles, coaching staff backs his "exceptionally tough job" of bowling 3 powerplay overs plus death overs. Tournament Context: India arrives unbeaten with 8 Asia Cup titles, chasing a record-extending 9th crown. Pakistan seeks their 3rd Asia Cup title and first since 2012. This final ends the tournament's 41-year streak without an India-Pakistan summit clash. Head-to-Head: India dominates T20I meetings 11-3 overall, but Pakistan historically performs better in major finals with 3-2 advantage in big tournaments.