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Former India cricketer Deep Dasgupta believes that Pakistan and always dangerous and cannot be taken lightly ahead of the Suryakumar Yadav-led side's Asia Cup 2025 Super Four clash against the neighbouring nation. The upcoming India versus Pakistan clash in the Asia Cup will be the second outing of both teams against each other.
India and Pakistan last played against each other in the Group Stage clash of the continental tournament, where the Men in Blue registered a seven-wicket one-sided win against the arch-rivals.
"Pakistan hasn't played good cricket for a couple of years now. They have good individual players, but they haven't clicked as a unit. That said, they're always dangerous, and in this format, you can't take anyone lightly.
"There's still a clear difference in quality between India and Pakistan at the moment, but Pakistan remains a dangerous side," Dasgupta told PTI Videos.
On whether the return of pacer Haris Rauf could make a difference to Pakistan's bowling attack, Dasgupta said, "They've always had quality bowlers, and they still do. But it's their batting that's worrying.
"Against Kuldeep and Varun, they just had no clue. I'm sure they'll prepare better this time. Hopefully, the headlines will be from the cricket field and not off it."
While India are the favourite to lift the Asia Cup, Dasgupta cautioned against complacency.
"With all due respect, you can't take anyone lightly. Sri Lanka are playing really good cricket. Bangladesh are always competitive. Afghanistan, though not in the Super 4s, are also a side to watch in this format. Asia Cup has always been tricky, and T20 cricket is unpredictable," he said.
"It's India's tournament to lose, but they must stay switched on," he said.
The Super Four clash of India vs Pakistan will take place on September 21 at Dubai International Stadium in Dubai. Suryakumar Yadav-led side stormed into the Super Four after registering three consecutive wins against UAE, Pakistan and Oman respectively.
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