Drama unfolded ahead of the Asia Cup 2025 Group A clash in Dubai as the Pakistan cricket team remained in their hotel rooms, having reportedly been asked not to travel to the stadium after pulling out of the tournament.
In contrast, the UAE team has already arrived at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, prepared to take the field for the scheduled evening fixture. The match was slated to begin at 6:30 PM local time (8:00 PM IST, 2:30 PM GMT), but uncertainty now looms large following Pakistan’s withdrawal.
The reported pullout comes amid controversy over a handshake row with India, which has escalated tensions and put Pakistan’s participation in the tournament in doubt. While the UAE squad is ready to play, clarity from the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) is awaited on whether the fixture will go ahead.
