PAK vs UAE Match Preview – A formidable Pakistan side will lock horns with co-hosts United Arab Emirates in a much-anticipated Group A clash of the Asia Cup 2025 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Wednesday, September 17th. Led by Agha Salman, a young and dynamic Pakistani outfit will be eager to assert their dominance early in the tournament against a determined UAE side playing in their own backyard.
This encounter promises a fascinating contest between a top-tier cricketing nation and an Associate member looking to make a significant impact on the continental stage. For Pakistan, it’s about starting their campaign with a convincing victory, while for the UAE, it’s a golden opportunity to test their mettle against one of the world’s best.
PAK vs UAE Match Details
PAK vs UAE Head-to-Head
Pakistan and the UAE have had limited encounters in the T20 format, with Pakistan emerging victorious on the sole occasion they have faced each other. This historical dominance, combined with their vast experience at the highest level, will give Pakistan a significant psychological advantage heading into this fixture.
PAK vs UAE Pitch Report: Dubai International Cricket Stadium
The pitch at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium is renowned for its balanced nature, offering assistance to both batsmen and bowlers. The surface is generally flat and true, allowing for good stroke play, especially in the initial stages of the innings. However, as the match progresses, the pitch tends to slow down, bringing the spinners into the contest. The ‘Ring of Fire’ stadium’s vast dimensions also mean that hitting boundaries requires a combination of power and timing.
In the evening, dew can play a crucial role, often making it easier for the team batting second. The average first innings score in T20s at this venue hovers around the 160-170 mark. Therefore, the captain winning the toss might opt to field first to have a clear target in sight.
PAK vs UAE Weather Report
The weather in Dubai on Wednesday, September 17th, is expected to be hot and humid, typical of the region. Temperatures are likely to be in the high 30s (Celsius) during the day and will cool down slightly in the evening. There is no threat of rain, so a full, uninterrupted match is on the cards. Players will have to manage the challenging conditions, with hydration being a key factor for both sides.
PAK vs UAE Squads
Pakistan (PAK) Possible Playing XI: Sahibzada Farhan (WK), Saim Ayub, Mohammad Haris (WK), Fakhar Zaman, Agha Salman (C), Hassan Nawaz, Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Afridi, Sufiyan Muqeem, Abrar Ahmed
United Arab Emirates (UAE) Confirmed Playing XI: Waseem Muhammad (C), Alishan Sharafu, Asif-Khan, Zohaib-Khan, Hashit Kaushik, Rahul Chopra (WK), Dhruv Parashar, Haider Ali-I, Muhammad Rohid, Junaid Siddique, Muhammad Jawad-Ullah
PAK vs UAE Match Prediction
Pakistan will undoubtedly start this encounter as the overwhelming favorites. Their squad is packed with a blend of explosive young talent and seasoned campaigners. The likes of Saim Ayub and Fakhar Zaman at the top of the order can dismantle any bowling attack, while the pace battery led by the fiery Shaheen Afridi is a formidable force. The spin duo of Mohammad Nawaz and Abrar Ahmed will also pose a significant threat in the middle overs.
For the UAE, the key will be to play with courage and discipline. Captain Waseem Muhammad and the experienced Asif-Khan will have to shoulder the bulk of the batting responsibility. Their bowlers, including the seasoned Junaid Siddique, will need to be at their absolute best to contain a powerful Pakistani batting lineup.
While the UAE will have the advantage of playing in home conditions and will be roared on by the local crowd, the sheer depth and quality of the Pakistan side are likely to be too much to handle. Expect a dominant performance from Pakistan to kickstart their Asia Cup campaign with a comfortable victory.
Prediction: Pakistan to win.
