Hardik Pandya is not playing in the Asia Cup 2025 final against Pakistan due to an injury. He suffered a quadricep/hamstring niggle during the Super Four match against Sri Lanka, where he bowled just one over before walking off and not returning to the field. The injury prevented him from recovering in time for the final. India captain Suryakumar Yadav confirmed at the toss that Hardik misses out due to this niggle. As a result, Rinku Singh has been included in India's playing XI in his place. This absence is considered a big blow for India as Hardik has been a key player and an effective all-rounder for the team in pressure situations, especially against Pakistan.