Despite uncertainty over their continued participation in the Asia Cup 2025, the Pakistan team arrived at the ICC Academy in Dubai on Tuesday evening for a training session ahead of their upcoming match against the UAE. Their presence on the ground suggested a quiet indication that the team does not intend to withdraw from the tournament, even as the International Cricket Council (ICC) has rejected the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) formal protest following the recent handshake controversy.
While players went about their routine in good spirits, top PCB officials are still said to be awaiting final approval from the federal government in Islamabad before fully committing to the rest of the tournament.
According to a video released by PTI, the Pakistan players appeared relaxed, with captain Salman Ali Agha seen sharing a laugh with a UAE player as the home side concluded their training. As the UAE squad cleared the ground, the Pakistani team stepped in, maintaining a cheerful mood ahead of the must-win fixture.
Their arrival coincided with India’s ongoing training session. India captain Suryakumar Yadav, head coach Gautam Gambhir, and the rest of the squad were still utilising their allotted time when Pakistan began warming up. However, none of the Pakistani players approached the Indian training area, where India’s net session continued under the supervision of consultant Mike Hesson.
The clear separation between the two squads has mirrored the broader political and cricketing tensions that have marked this edition of the Asia Cup.
