PAK vs UAE Match Preview – In a classic David vs. Goliath encounter of the Asia Cup 2025, a formidable Pakistan side is set to take on the United Arab Emirates at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Wednesday, September 17th. While Pakistan enters the tournament as one of the front-runners, the UAE will be looking to punch above their weight and cause a major upset on home soil.
This match presents a crucial opportunity for both teams. For Pakistan, it’s a chance to start their campaign on a high note and fine-tune their combinations. For the UAE, it’s a golden opportunity to test their skills against one of the world’s elite cricketing nations and make a statement on the continental stage. The cricketing world will be watching keenly to see if the co-hosts can challenge the might of the Men in Green.
PAK vs UAE Match Details
PAK vs UAE Head to Head
As expected, the head-to-head record between Pakistan and the UAE is heavily skewed in favor of the former. These two nations have not had frequent encounters, but in the limited opportunities, Pakistan has maintained a perfect record. This historical dominance will be a significant psychological advantage for Pakistan heading into this clash.
PAK vs UAE Pitch Report: Dubai International Cricket Stadium
The pitch at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium is renowned for its true bounce and pace, making it a good surface for batting. In the initial phase of the innings, the new ball tends to come onto the bat nicely, allowing for free-scoring. However, as the game progresses, the pitch can slow down, and spinners might find some assistance.
The “Ring of Fire” stadium is also known for its long boundaries, which will test the power-hitting abilities of the batsmen. With the match scheduled as a night game, dew could become a significant factor in the second innings, potentially making it easier for the team batting second to chase down a target. The captain winning the toss will likely opt to field first.
PAK vs UAE Weather Report
The weather in Dubai on Wednesday, September 17th, is expected to be hot and humid, typical for this time of the year. The temperature is likely to be in the mid to 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 their energy levels effectively in the challenging weather conditions.
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 enter this contest as the overwhelming favorites, and for good reason. Their squad is packed with world-class talent and a wealth of experience. The pace battery led by the fiery Shaheen Afridi is expected to pose a significant challenge to the UAE’s batting lineup. The likes of Fakhar Zaman and Saim Ayub in their batting order have the ability to take the game away from the opposition in a matter of overs.
For the UAE, the key will be to play fearless cricket and not be intimidated by their formidable opponents. Captain Waseem Muhammad and the experienced Asif-Khan will have to shoulder the bulk of the responsibility with the bat. Their bowlers, including the seasoned Junaid Siddique, will need to be incredibly disciplined to contain the explosive Pakistani batting.
While an upset is not entirely out of the question in the unpredictable world of T20 cricket, it would require an extraordinary performance from the UAE and an uncharacteristically poor one from Pakistan. Realistically, Pakistan’s superior skill and experience should see them cruise to a comfortable victory and begin their Asia Cup 2025 campaign on a winning note.
Prediction: Pakistan to win.
