Morne Morkel Provides Crucial Injury Update on Hardik Pandya, Abhishek Sharma Ahead of Asia Cup 2025 Final

Dubai: The stage is set for a blockbuster finale as India take on arch-rivals Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2025 final. Having remained unbeaten throughout the tournament, India will be eyeing another major title, but injury concerns around key players had left fans anxious.

India’s bowling coach Morne Morkel has now clarified the situation regarding Hardik Pandya and Abhishek Sharma, who both left the field during India’s dramatic Super Four clash against Sri Lanka.

Hardik Pandya & Abhishek Sharma fitness update

In the tense encounter versus Sri Lanka, which went into a thrilling super over, Hardik Pandya bowled just one over before walking off, while Abhishek Sharma also left the field mid-game. This sparked fears that India’s squad depth might be tested in the all-important final against Pakistan.

Addressing these concerns, Morkel stated in the post-match press conference:

• On Hardik Pandya: “Hardik struggled with cramps. We’ll assess him tonight and tomorrow morning before the final. A call will be taken based on his recovery.”
• On Abhishek Sharma: “Abhishek is fine. He too had cramps during the game but nothing serious.”

He reassured fans that both players’ issues were related to dehydration and cramps rather than serious injuries.

Morkel on India’s bowling strategy in powerplays

Morkel also reflected on India’s bowling performance in the Asia Cup so far, particularly in the powerplay overs.
“If you look at the trend of the tournament, after 10 overs the scoring rate usually slows down. The new ball is coming onto the bat nicely, and the margin for error is quite small. As a bowling attack, we want to stay aggressive and aim for wickets upfront. There hasn’t been a lot of swing early on.”

He emphasized India’s focus on early breakthroughs against Pakistan, given the batting firepower their rivals possess.

India vs Pakistan: High-stakes finale

The India-Pakistan clash in the Asia Cup final is more than just another cricket match — it’s a contest that carries immense pressure, historical rivalry, and global attention. With India unbeaten so far and Pakistan looking to upset their arch-foes, the Dubai International Stadium is expected to witness a high-octane battle.

India’s squad depth has been tested in the tournament with Tilak Varma also seen limping against Sri Lanka, but the team has shown resilience in crunch moments. The news of Hardik and Abhishek being fit enough for the final will come as a major relief for Rohit Sharma’s side.