Published on, Sept. 20 -- September 20, 2025 4:57 PM

DUBAI - India's captain Suryakumar Yadav has advised his players to block out external pressure ahead of their high-voltage Asia Cup rematch against Pakistan. The two arch-rivals are set to clash again on Sunday amid political tension and controversy surrounding their previous meeting.

India won their first Group A encounter, but post-match conduct - including players refusing to shake hands and dedicating the win to the Indian armed forces - drew criticism. Pakistan even considered withdrawing from the tournament in protest over what they called unsportsmanlike behavior condoned by officials.

In a press conference Saturday, Suryakumar addressed the mental pressure on his squad, urgi...