Salman Agha unfit? Pakistan face injury scare before Asia Cup campaign

Pakistan were handed a brief injury concern ahead of the Asia Cup 2025, as captain Salman Agha skipped a major part of Wednesday’s training session at the ICC Academy in Dubai. The all-rounder, who is set to lead Pakistan against Oman on Friday, September 12, at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi, was spotted with a bandage on his neck after experiencing a mild spasm.

As per reports on Geo News, although he travelled with the squad, Salman stayed away from warm-ups and light football drills, while the rest of the players went through a complete fitness routine. His restricted movement sparked worries in the camp, particularly with the high-voltage clash against India on Sunday approaching.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), however, played down the concerns, clarifying that the issue is minor and precautionary in nature. Salman is expected to return to full training shortly, and the team management remains confident that their skipper will be fit to lead Pakistan in the crucial Asia Cup 2025 fixtures ahead.

‘Pakistan playing good cricket’

Pakistan are rebuilding under coach Mike Hesson, having moved on from former captains Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan after the 2024 South Africa series. Salman now leads the team following a turbulent 18 months. Confident of their prospects, Pakistan will face India, UAE, and Oman in the Asia Cup group stages—marking their first major tournament without the senior duo.

"I think we are playing good cricket, we started that a few months ago. Things are coming together, as a team we are playing good cricket and looking forward to this tournament and everyone is very excited," Salman said in the pre-series press conference on Tuesday, September 9.

When asked whether India are favourites for the tournament, Salman stated that in T20 cricket, no team can be considered a favourite, as a single over or two can completely change the outcome.

"No one is favourite in a T20 game. In a space of 1 or 2 overs the match can change. The tri-series was a preparation for the Asia Cup and the mindset was always to win that tournament," Salman added.

Pakistan will enter the Asia Cup on the back of a tri-series triumph in the UAE, having beaten Afghanistan by 75 runs in the final at Sharjah Cricket Stadium.