Openers KL Rahul and Ambati Rayadu gave India the required start while chasing a decent target of 253 runs set by Afghanistan.&nbsp;

The two laid a strong foundation of the Indian inning and stitched a 110-run partnership, with Rayadu contributing 57 runs, before losing his wicket to Mohammad Nabi.&nbsp;

Rayadu's 49-ball inning included four boundaries and one six. &nbsp;

KL Rahul, on the other hand, also reached his half-century in 55 balls. &nbsp;

Earlier, Mohammad Shahzad's brilliant century and Mohammad Nabi's perfect cameo powered Afghanistan to a total of 252 for the loss of eight wickets against India on Tuesday.

Electing to bat, Afghan's Shahzad was the sole player on whom the team relied before nabi took the driver's seat.&nbsp;

The opener was in action from the very first ball and played magnificently against the Indian bowling attack to slam 124 runs.

Dropped at 49 by &nbsp;Ambati Rayudu, Shahzad slammed 11 boundaries and 7 huge sixes in his 116-ball inning, which was finally ended by Kedhar Jadhav. &nbsp;

Afghans could have put a high target if Shahzad would have found an ally in the downline. Apart from him no other player, till Nabi arrived, could stand the Indian attack and were dismissed in quick successions.

Nabi's 56-ball 64 runs cameo was supported with three boundaries and four sixes. &nbsp;He played at a strike rate of 114.29, much better than what Shahzad's had today. &nbsp;

Khaleel Ahmed was the man who took Nabi's wicket to restrict Afghanistan's score.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Kuldeep Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja took two and three wickets respectively to keep Afghanistan in control. &nbsp; &nbsp;

India, who is being captained by MS Dhoni, will have to display a better class of batting to win the game.&nbsp;

Even if India lose, they will still be playing the Asi Cup final, after they registered a comfortable victory against Bangladesh and Pakistan earlier to book a spot. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Openers KL Rahul and Ambati Rayadu gave India the required start while chasing a decent target of 253 runs set by Afghanistan. The two laid a strong foundation of the Indian inning and stitched a 110-run partnership, with Rayadu contributing 57 runs, before losing his wicket to Mohammad Nabi.

Openers KL Rahul and Ambati Rayadu gave India the required start while chasing a decent target of 253 runs set by Afghanistan. The two laid a strong foundation of the Indian inning and stitched a 110-run partnership, with Rayadu contributing 57 runs, before losing his wicket to Mohammad Nabi. Rayadu's 49-ball inning included four boundaries and one six. KL Rahul, on the other hand, also reached his half-century in 55 balls. Earlier, Mohammad Shahzad's brilliant century and Mohammad Nabi's perfect cameo powered Afghanistan to a total of 252 for the loss of eight wickets against India on Tuesday. Electing to bat, Afghan's Shahzad was the sole player on whom the team relied before nabi took the driver's seat. The opener was in action from the very first ball and played magnificently against the Indian bowling attack to slam 124 runs. Dropped at 49 by Ambati Rayudu, Shahzad slammed 11 boundaries and 7 huge sixes in his 116-ball inning, which was finally ended by Kedhar Jadhav. Afghans could have put a high target if Shahzad would have found an ally in the downline. Apart from him no other player, till Nabi arrived, could stand the Indian attack and were dismissed in quick successions. Nabi's 56-ball 64 runs cameo was supported with three boundaries and four sixes. He played at a strike rate of 114.29, much better than what Shahzad's had today. Khaleel Ahmed was the man who took Nabi's wicket to restrict Afghanistan's score. Meanwhile, Kuldeep Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja took two and three wickets respectively to keep Afghanistan in control. India, who is being captained by MS Dhoni, will have to display a better class of batting to win the game. Even if India lose, they will still be playing the Asi Cup final, after they registered a comfortable victory against Bangladesh and Pakistan earlier to book a spot.

Asia Cup: Rayudu falls after quickfire fifty, India 114/1 after 18 overs

Mohammad Shahzad's brilliant century and Mohammad Nabi's perfect cameo powered Afghanistan to a total of 252 for the loss of eight wickets against India on Tuesday.

Electing to bat, Afghan's Shahzad was the sole player on whom the team was dependent&nbsp;before nabi took the driver's seat.&nbsp;

The opener was in action from the very first ball and played magnificently against the Indian bowling attack to slam 124 runs.

Dropped at 49 by Ambati Rayudu, Shahzad slammed 11 boundaries and 7 huge sixes in his 116-ball inning, which was finally ended by Kedhar Jadhav. &nbsp;

Afghans could have put a high target if Shahzad would have found an ally in the downline. Apart from him no other player, till Nabi arrived, could stand the Indian attack and were dismissed in quick successions.

Nabi's 56-ball 64 runs cameo was supported with three boundaries and four sixes. He played at a strike rate of 114.29, much better than what Shahzad's had today. &nbsp;

Khaleel Ahmed was the man who took Nabi's wicket to restrict Afghanistan's score.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Kuldeep Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja took two and three wickets, respectively, to keep Afghanistan in control. &nbsp; &nbsp;

India, who is being captained by MS Dhoni, will have to display a better class of batting to win the game.&nbsp;

Even if India lose, they will still be playing the Asi Cup final, after they registered a comfortable victory against Bangladesh and Pakistan earlier to book a spot. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Mohammad Shahzad's brilliant century and Mohammad Nabi's perfect cameo powered Afghanistan to a total of 252 for the loss of eight wickets against India on Tuesday.

Mohammad Shahzad's brilliant century and Mohammad Nabi's perfect cameo powered Afghanistan to a total of 252 for the loss of eight wickets against India on Tuesday. Electing to bat, Afghan's Shahzad was the sole player on whom the team was dependent before nabi took the driver's seat. The opener was in action from the very first ball and played magnificently against the Indian bowling attack to slam 124 runs. Dropped at 49 by Ambati Rayudu, Shahzad slammed 11 boundaries and 7 huge sixes in his 116-ball inning, which was finally ended by Kedhar Jadhav. Afghans could have put a high target if Shahzad would have found an ally in the downline. Apart from him no other player, till Nabi arrived, could stand the Indian attack and were dismissed in quick successions. Nabi's 56-ball 64 runs cameo was supported with three boundaries and four sixes. He played at a strike rate of 114.29, much better than what Shahzad's had today. Khaleel Ahmed was the man who took Nabi's wicket to restrict Afghanistan's score. Meanwhile, Kuldeep Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja took two and three wickets, respectively, to keep Afghanistan in control. India, who is being captained by MS Dhoni, will have to display a better class of batting to win the game. Even if India lose, they will still be playing the Asi Cup final, after they registered a comfortable victory against Bangladesh and Pakistan earlier to book a spot.

Asia Cup: Shahzad's superlative century powers Afghanistan to 252

Kuldeep Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja took two wickets apiece to keep Afghanistan in control in the second-last game of the Super four of 2018 Asia Cup.

Despite opener Mohammad Shahzad's perfect start, Afghanistan lost a slew of wickets at other end to find themselves in trouble.

Apart from Shahzad, no other player has reached the 10-digit mark till now. After 20 overs being bowled, Afghanistan are&nbsp;103 for the loss of four&nbsp;wickets.&nbsp;

Afghanistan won the toss and elected to bat first against India, which is captained by former skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni after Rohit Sharma and other players were given rest.

This is Dhoni's 200 game as&nbsp;Indian Cricket team's skipper.

India have already reached the Asia Cup final after defeating Bangladesh and Pakistan.&nbsp;

Kuldeep Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja took two wickets apiece to keep Afghanistan in control in the second-last game of the Super four of 2018 Asia Cup. Despite opener Mohammad Shahzad's perfect start, Afghanistan lost a slew of wickets at other end to find themselves in trouble.

Kuldeep Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja took two wickets apiece to keep Afghanistan in control in the second-last game of the Super four of 2018 Asia Cup. Despite opener Mohammad Shahzad's perfect start, Afghanistan lost a slew of wickets at other end to find themselves in trouble. Apart from Shahzad, no other player has reached the 10-digit mark till now. After 20 overs being bowled, Afghanistan are 103 for the loss of four wickets. Afghanistan won the toss and elected to bat first against India, which is captained by former skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni after Rohit Sharma and other players were given rest. This is Dhoni's 200 game as Indian Cricket team's skipper. India have already reached the Asia Cup final after defeating Bangladesh and Pakistan.

Asia Cup: Kuldeep, Jadeja keep Afghanistan in control, are 103/4 after 20 overs

Mahendra Singh Dhoni on Tuesday captained India for the 200th time in One-day Internationals (ODIs) after a gap of almost two years in their Asia Cup 2018 Super Four clash against Afghanistan.&nbsp;

As expected, the defending champions opted to rest key players like Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Jasprit Bumrah, giving Dhoni a chance to lead the Men In Blue.&nbsp;

The wicketkeeper-batsman relinquished the captaincy of India's T20 and ODI sides in January 2017.

On Tuesday, Afghanistan had won the toss and elected to bat against India.

Speaking after the toss, MS Dhoni said this match gave him the opportunity to play it his 200th ODI match as a captain. "I was not really sure of where I am standing. I have captained 199 ODIs, so this gives me an opportunity to make it 200. It's all destiny and I always believed in that. It's not in my control, once I left captaincy. Good to complete 200, but I don't think it really matters," he said.

Dhoni also revealed that India were also looking to bowl first. "We were looking to bowl first. Quite a few changes. Both the openers are missing, Bhuvi, Bumrah and Chahal are also missing. Everybody who hadn't played in this tournament gets a chance."

&nbsp;They are part of the 15 and are representing India. We'll have to keep the intensity up. It is important for them to adjust to the line and length they need to bowl," he added.

India are already in final after wins over Bangladesh and Pakistan.

Mahendra Singh Dhoni on Tuesday captained India for the 200th time in One-day Internationals (ODIs) after a gap of almost two years in their Asia Cup 2018 Super Four clash against Afghanistan.

Mahendra Singh Dhoni on Tuesday captained India for the 200th time in One-day Internationals (ODIs) after a gap of almost two years in their Asia Cup 2018 Super Four clash against Afghanistan. As expected, the defending champions opted to rest key players like Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Jasprit Bumrah, giving Dhoni a chance to lead the Men In Blue. The wicketkeeper-batsman relinquished the captaincy of India's T20 and ODI sides in January 2017. On Tuesday, Afghanistan had won the toss and elected to bat against India. Speaking after the toss, MS Dhoni said this match gave him the opportunity to play it his 200th ODI match as a captain. "I was not really sure of where I am standing. I have captained 199 ODIs, so this gives me an opportunity to make it 200. It's all destiny and I always believed in that. It's not in my control, once I left captaincy. Good to complete 200, but I don't think it really matters," he said. Dhoni also revealed that India were also looking to bowl first. "We were looking to bowl first. Quite a few changes. Both the openers are missing, Bhuvi, Bumrah and Chahal are also missing. Everybody who hadn't played in this tournament gets a chance." They are part of the 15 and are representing India. We'll have to keep the intensity up. It is important for them to adjust to the line and length they need to bowl," he added. India are already in final after wins over Bangladesh and Pakistan.

Asia Cup: MS Dhoni returns as India's captain against Afghanistan 

Having already sealed their place in the 2018 Asia Cup final, defending champions India will look to continue their winning streak when they face Afghanistan on Tuesday.

The Rohit-Sharma side recently registered a 9-wicket victory over arch-rivals Pakistan to confirm their place in the finals.&nbsp;

On Sunday, Indian openers Rohit Sharma, also the captain, and Shikhar Dhawan slammed a century each&nbsp;to achieve Pakistan's below-par target of 237.

The duo played brilliantly to stitch together a 210-run stand, with Dhawan departing after contributing 114 runs.&nbsp;

India had earlier defeated Bangladesh in their first Super 4 match, to remain as the only unbeaten team in the tournament so far.&nbsp;

India will be aiming to continue their dominance over the Asian newbies, who have managed to give a tough fight in their narrow defeats to the likes of Pakistan and Bangladesh in their Super Four clashes.&nbsp;

While Pakistan managed to win a last-over thriller over the Afghans by 3 wickets, Bangladesh on Sunday pipped Afghanistan by 3 runs to set up a virtual semi-final with Pakistan on Wednesday.

The game is also a chance for India to rest a few players and give the opportunity to other young talents.

Having already sealed their place in the 2018 Asia Cup final, defending champions India will look to continue their winning streak when they face Afghanistan on Tuesday.

Having already sealed their place in the 2018 Asia Cup final, defending champions India will look to continue their winning streak when they face Afghanistan on Tuesday. The Rohit-Sharma side recently registered a 9-wicket victory over arch-rivals Pakistan to confirm their place in the finals. On Sunday, Indian openers Rohit Sharma, also the captain, and Shikhar Dhawan slammed a century each to achieve Pakistan's below-par target of 237. The duo played brilliantly to stitch together a 210-run stand, with Dhawan departing after contributing 114 runs. India had earlier defeated Bangladesh in their first Super 4 match, to remain as the only unbeaten team in the tournament so far. India will be aiming to continue their dominance over the Asian newbies, who have managed to give a tough fight in their narrow defeats to the likes of Pakistan and Bangladesh in their Super Four clashes. While Pakistan managed to win a last-over thriller over the Afghans by 3 wickets, Bangladesh on Sunday pipped Afghanistan by 3 runs to set up a virtual semi-final with Pakistan on Wednesday. The game is also a chance for India to rest a few players and give the opportunity to other young talents.

Asia Cup: Already in finals, India aim to extend winning streak against Afghanistan

Afghanistan won the toss and elected to bat against defending champions India in the second-last game of the Super Four stage of the 2018 Asia Cup.

India, who was being led by Rohit Sharma till now, will be playing this game under their former captain MS Dhoni. &nbsp;

Talking after the toss, Dhoni said, "We were looking to bowl first. Quite a few changes. Both the openers are missing, Bhuvi, Bumrah and Chahal are also missing. Everybody who hadn't played in this tournament get a chance," Dhoni said.

"They are part of the 15 and are representing India. We'll have to keep the intensity up. It is important for them to adjust to the line and length they need to bowl. I was not really sure of where I am standing. I have captained 199 ODIs, so this gives me an opportunity to make it 200. It's all destiny and I always believed in that. It's not in my control, once I left captainship. Good to complete 200, but I don't think it really matters, he added."

Talking about their strategy for today, Afghan skipper Asghar Afghan said, "We will bat first. Today, the wicket might spin. We would like to put runs on the board and apply pressure. We have made two changes. Samiullah and Ihsanullah are not playing. Najibullah and Javed Ahmadi come in. We played well, but we lost two games. It's part of the game. Today we will look to play confidently."

Teams:

India (Playing XI): Lokesh Rahul, Ambati Rayudu, Manish Pandey, MS Dhoni(w/c), Dinesh Karthik, Kedar Jadhav, Ravindra Jadeja, Deepak Chahar, Siddarth Kaul, Kuldeep Yadav, K Khaleel Ahmed

Afghanistan (Playing XI): Mohammad Shahzad(w), Javed Ahmadi, Rahmat Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi, Asghar Afghan(c), Najibullah Zadran, Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan, Gulbadin Naib, Aftab Alam, Mujeeb Ur Rahman

India qualified for the Asia Cup final after defeating Pakistan by nine-wickets.&nbsp;

Afghanistan won the toss and elected to bat against defending champions India in the second-last game of the Super Four stage of the 2018 Asia Cup. India, who was being led by Rohit Sharma till now, will be playing this game under their former captain MS Dhoni.

Afghanistan won the toss and elected to bat against defending champions India in the second-last game of the Super Four stage of the 2018 Asia Cup. India, who was being led by Rohit Sharma till now, will be playing this game under their former captain MS Dhoni. Talking after the toss, Dhoni said, "We were looking to bowl first. Quite a few changes. Both the openers are missing, Bhuvi, Bumrah and Chahal are also missing. Everybody who hadn't played in this tournament get a chance," Dhoni said. "They are part of the 15 and are representing India. We'll have to keep the intensity up. It is important for them to adjust to the line and length they need to bowl. I was not really sure of where I am standing. I have captained 199 ODIs, so this gives me an opportunity to make it 200. It's all destiny and I always believed in that. It's not in my control, once I left captainship. Good to complete 200, but I don't think it really matters, he added." Talking about their strategy for today, Afghan skipper Asghar Afghan said, "We will bat first. Today, the wicket might spin. We would like to put runs on the board and apply pressure. We have made two changes. Samiullah and Ihsanullah are not playing. Najibullah and Javed Ahmadi come in. We played well, but we lost two games. It's part of the game. Today we will look to play confidently." Teams: India (Playing XI): Lokesh Rahul, Ambati Rayudu, Manish Pandey, MS Dhoni(w/c), Dinesh Karthik, Kedar Jadhav, Ravindra Jadeja, Deepak Chahar, Siddarth Kaul, Kuldeep Yadav, K Khaleel Ahmed Afghanistan (Playing XI): Mohammad Shahzad(w), Javed Ahmadi, Rahmat Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi, Asghar Afghan(c), Najibullah Zadran, Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan, Gulbadin Naib, Aftab Alam, Mujeeb Ur Rahman India qualified for the Asia Cup final after defeating Pakistan by nine-wickets.

Asia Cup: Afghanistan win toss, elect to bat against India

Indian openers have given a terrific start in reply to Pakistan's 237-run target in the Super Four, match 3 at Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai on Sunday.

Skipper Rohit Sharma played from the front and Shikhar Dhawan struck a magnificent century to bring team India closer to victory.

In the first innings, the fielding unit of India produced a clinical performance and kept taking wickets to build pressure on the batsmen and restrict the Men in Green at an achievable score.

However, Shoaib Malik struck an attractive half-century to salvage Pakistan's innings. His 90-ball 78 included four boundaries and two sixes.

Opener Fakhar Zaman looked dangerous at a moment but lost his wicket to India's spin sensation Kuldeep Yadav after scoring 31 runs.&nbsp;

After opting to bat, Pakistan lost Imam-ul-Haq (ten), Fakhar Zaman and Babar Azam (run out for nine) in an unimpressive start to their innings before Malik and skipper Sarfraz Ahmed added 107 for the fourth wicket.

Jasprit Bumrah finished with 2-29 in his ten overs.

The top two teams from the Super four will play the final on September 28 in Dubai.

Indian openers have given a terrific start in reply to Pakistan's 237-run target in the Super Four, match 3 at Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai on Sunday.

Indian openers have given a terrific start in reply to Pakistan's 237-run target in the Super Four, match 3 at Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai on Sunday. Skipper Rohit Sharma played from the front and Shikhar Dhawan struck a magnificent century to bring team India closer to victory. In the first innings, the fielding unit of India produced a clinical performance and kept taking wickets to build pressure on the batsmen and restrict the Men in Green at an achievable score. However, Shoaib Malik struck an attractive half-century to salvage Pakistan's innings. His 90-ball 78 included four boundaries and two sixes. Opener Fakhar Zaman looked dangerous at a moment but lost his wicket to India's spin sensation Kuldeep Yadav after scoring 31 runs. After opting to bat, Pakistan lost Imam-ul-Haq (ten), Fakhar Zaman and Babar Azam (run out for nine) in an unimpressive start to their innings before Malik and skipper Sarfraz Ahmed added 107 for the fourth wicket. Jasprit Bumrah finished with 2-29 in his ten overs. The top two teams from the Super four will play the final on September 28 in Dubai.

Asia Cup, India vs Pak: Shikhar Dhawan's century brings India closer to victory

Indian openers Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan hit centuries to inspire the team towards victory against their arch-rivals Pakistan in Super Four, match 3 of the ongoing Asia Cup tournament&nbsp;on Sunday.

Rohit Sharma&nbsp;scored an unbeaten 111 runs in an attractive innings which included seven fours and four sixes.

Pakistan could have got Sharma out in the sixth over but Imam-ul-Haq dropped an easy catch off a luckless Shaheen Shah.

While the highlight of Indian innings was Shikhar Dhawan, who scored 114 runs and his magnificent knock included 16 fours and two sixes.

He played several marvelous shots to pump-up the crowd at Dubai International Cricket Stadium but&nbsp;got out in the 34th over with 38 needed it was through a run out.

The win is India's highest against Pakistan in terms of wickets, improving on the eight wicket win over Pakistan in Melbourne in 1985.

In the first innings, the fielding unit of India produced a clinical performance and the bowlers&nbsp;kept taking wickets to build pressure on the batsmen and restrict the Men in Green at an achievable score.

However, Shoaib Malik struck an attractive half-century to salvage Pakistan's innings. His 90-ball 78 included four boundaries and two sixes.

Opener Fakhar Zaman looked dangerous at a moment but lost his wicket to India's spin sensation Kuldeep Yadav after scoring 31 runs.&nbsp;

After opting to bat, Pakistan lost Imam-ul-Haq (ten), Fakhar Zaman and Babar Azam (run out for nine) in an unimpressive start to their innings before Malik and skipper Sarfraz Ahmed added 107 for the fourth wicket.

Jasprit Bumrah finished with 2-29 in his ten overs.

The top two teams from the Super four will play the final on September 28 in Dubai.

Indian openers Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan hit centuries to inspire the team towards victory against their arch-rivals Pakistan in Super Four, match 3 of the ongoing Asia Cup tournament on Sunday.

Indian openers Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan hit centuries to inspire the team towards victory against their arch-rivals Pakistan in Super Four, match 3 of the ongoing Asia Cup tournament on Sunday. Rohit Sharma scored an unbeaten 111 runs in an attractive innings which included seven fours and four sixes. Pakistan could have got Sharma out in the sixth over but Imam-ul-Haq dropped an easy catch off a luckless Shaheen Shah. While the highlight of Indian innings was Shikhar Dhawan, who scored 114 runs and his magnificent knock included 16 fours and two sixes. He played several marvelous shots to pump-up the crowd at Dubai International Cricket Stadium but got out in the 34th over with 38 needed it was through a run out. The win is India's highest against Pakistan in terms of wickets, improving on the eight wicket win over Pakistan in Melbourne in 1985. In the first innings, the fielding unit of India produced a clinical performance and the bowlers kept taking wickets to build pressure on the batsmen and restrict the Men in Green at an achievable score. However, Shoaib Malik struck an attractive half-century to salvage Pakistan's innings. His 90-ball 78 included four boundaries and two sixes. Opener Fakhar Zaman looked dangerous at a moment but lost his wicket to India's spin sensation Kuldeep Yadav after scoring 31 runs. After opting to bat, Pakistan lost Imam-ul-Haq (ten), Fakhar Zaman and Babar Azam (run out for nine) in an unimpressive start to their innings before Malik and skipper Sarfraz Ahmed added 107 for the fourth wicket. Jasprit Bumrah finished with 2-29 in his ten overs. The top two teams from the Super four will play the final on September 28 in Dubai.

Asia Cup: Rohit, Shikhar hit 100s as India beat Pakistan with 10 overs to spare

Rohit Sharma, who scored his 19th ODI ton and also completed 7000 runs in ODI format, reacted to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-rohit-shikhar-hit-100s-india-beat-pakistan-10-overs-spare-167316">India's nine-wicket win</a> against Pakistan in Super Four, match 3 of the ongoing Asia Cup tournament on Sunday.

Apart from Rohit, opener Shikhar Dhawan also scored a century. In his 114-run knock, which included 16 fours and two sixes, Dhawan played some beautiful shots.

Chasing a target of 238, Rohit (111 no off 119 balls) and Dhawan (114 off 100 balls) flayed the Pakistan attack adding 210 runs for the opening stand.

It was India's biggest win against Pakistan in terms of the number of wickets lost.

India's skipper seemed pleased with team's disciplined performance against Pakistan and said that his side displayed a better show than their arch-rivals.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Total domination as <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> seal a win by 9 wickets <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvPAK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvPAK</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AsiaCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AsiaCup</a> <a href="https://t.co/k6vSgrkaB8">pic.twitter.com/k6vSgrkaB8</a>
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He gave specific mention to the bowling unit as they stuck to their task got crucial breakthroughs and kept taking wickets to rip through Pakistan's batting unit.

"We asked for something like this from the boys," said Sharma. "It was challenging conditions, and it was tough coming out and playing in these conditions. All of them showed great character, it's a good win."

Rohit Sharma, who scored his 19th ODI ton and also completed 7000 runs in ODI format, reacted to India's nine-wicket win against Pakistan in Super Four, match 3 of the ongoing Asia Cup tournament on Sunday.

Rohit Sharma, who scored his 19th ODI ton and also completed 7000 runs in ODI format, reacted to India's nine-wicket win against Pakistan in Super Four, match 3 of the ongoing Asia Cup tournament on Sunday. Apart from Rohit, opener Shikhar Dhawan also scored a century. In his 114-run knock, which included 16 fours and two sixes, Dhawan played some beautiful shots. Chasing a target of 238, Rohit (111 no off 119 balls) and Dhawan (114 off 100 balls) flayed the Pakistan attack adding 210 runs for the opening stand. It was India's biggest win against Pakistan in terms of the number of wickets lost. India's skipper seemed pleased with team's disciplined performance against Pakistan and said that his side displayed a better show than their arch-rivals. Total domination as #TeamIndia seal a win by 9 wickets #INDvPAK #AsiaCup pic.twitter.com/k6vSgrkaB8 — BCCI (@BCCI) September 23, 2018 × He gave specific mention to the bowling unit as they stuck to their task got crucial breakthroughs and kept taking wickets to rip through Pakistan's batting unit. "We asked for something like this from the boys," said Sharma. "It was challenging conditions, and it was tough coming out and playing in these conditions. All of them showed great character, it's a good win."

Team showed great character, it's a good win, says Rohit Sharma after India's win over Pak

Pakistan coach&nbsp;Mickey&nbsp;Arthur&nbsp;on Sunday (September 23) said there was a 'confidence crisis' in his team's dressing room after they were beaten comprehensively by their arch-rivals India in an Asia Cup encounter in Dubai.

Arthur&nbsp;admitted his men were outplayed by a dominant Indian side and added that there was a fear of failure after losing a group stage match to their neighbours in the tournament.

In the group game, India beat Pakistan by eight wickets with 21 overs to spare after restricting their opponents to an easy total of 162.

On Sunday, India again got the better of Pakistan to register a massive nine-wicket victory thanks to a partnership of 210 runs partnership by openers Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan. The win is India's biggest against Pakistan in terms of wickets in one-day internationals.

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Indian slow bowler Yuzvendra Chahal said two successive wins over Pakistan will boost the team confidence for the final of the Asia Cup.

Pakistan will now face Bangladesh in Abu Dhabhi on Wednesday (September 26) and the winner will face India in the finals of the tournament. India take on Afghanistan in Dubai on Tuesday (September 25).

Pakistan coach Mickey Arthur on Sunday (September 23) said there was a 'confidence crisis' in his team's dressing room after they were beaten comprehensively by their arch-rivals India in an Asia Cup encounter in Dubai.

Pakistan coach Mickey Arthur on Sunday (September 23) said there was a 'confidence crisis' in his team's dressing room after they were beaten comprehensively by their arch-rivals India in an Asia Cup encounter in Dubai. Arthur admitted his men were outplayed by a dominant Indian side and added that there was a fear of failure after losing a group stage match to their neighbours in the tournament. In the group game, India beat Pakistan by eight wickets with 21 overs to spare after restricting their opponents to an easy total of 162. On Sunday, India again got the better of Pakistan to register a massive nine-wicket victory thanks to a partnership of 210 runs partnership by openers Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan. The win is India's biggest against Pakistan in terms of wickets in one-day internationals. × Indian slow bowler Yuzvendra Chahal said two successive wins over Pakistan will boost the team confidence for the final of the Asia Cup. Pakistan will now face Bangladesh in Abu Dhabhi on Wednesday (September 26) and the winner will face India in the finals of the tournament. India take on Afghanistan in Dubai on Tuesday (September 25).

Team India 'didn't allow us to play', says Pakistan's cricket coach Mickey Arthur

Batsman Dinesh Chandimal has been installed as Sri Lanka captain across all three formats after Angelo Mathews lost his role as skipper of the country's limited-overs teams following their exit from the Asia Cup in the United Arab Emirates.

The 31-year-old Mathews was renamed as Sri Lanka's limited-overs skipper in January, six months after the all-rounder relinquished the captaincy for both red and white-ball formats following a home series defeat to Zimbabwe.

Mathews, however, was unable to revive the team's fortunes in his latest stint, which came to an unceremonious end after Sri Lanka crashed out of the ongoing six-nation Asia Cup following first-round defeats by Bangladesh and Afghanistan.

"The National Selectors on Sunday decided to appoint Dinesh Chandimal as the ODI captain to lead the team in the upcoming England series," Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) said in a statement.

"Accordingly, they have requested Angelo Mathews to relinquish his duties as the National ODI &amp; T20I captain, with immediate effect."

The decision has upset Mathews, who felt he had been made a "scapegoat" and offered to retire from limited-overs cricket, according to ESPNCricinfo http://www.espncricinfo.com, which published the all-rounder's letter to SLC chief executive Ashley de Silva.

"I'm willing to take part of the blame but, at the same time, feel betrayed and let down if the blame is solely put on me," Mathews wrote.

"If the selectors and coach are of the view that I am unfit to play ODI and T20 cricket and thus not entitled for my place in the team, I would also consider retiring from the ODI and T20 formats as I never want to be a burden to the team."

Sri Lanka have been grappling with a leadership crisis over the last 18 months, during which Upul Tharanga, Lasith Malinga, Chamara Kapugedera and Thisara Perera have also been tried as ODI captains.

From Oct. 10, Sri Lanka will host England for five one-day internationals, a one-off Twenty20 and three tests.

Batsman Dinesh Chandimal has been installed as Sri Lanka captain across all three formats after Angelo Mathews lost his role as skipper of the country's limited-overs teams following their exit from the Asia Cup in the United Arab Emirates.

Batsman Dinesh Chandimal has been installed as Sri Lanka captain across all three formats after Angelo Mathews lost his role as skipper of the country's limited-overs teams following their exit from the Asia Cup in the United Arab Emirates. The 31-year-old Mathews was renamed as Sri Lanka's limited-overs skipper in January, six months after the all-rounder relinquished the captaincy for both red and white-ball formats following a home series defeat to Zimbabwe. Mathews, however, was unable to revive the team's fortunes in his latest stint, which came to an unceremonious end after Sri Lanka crashed out of the ongoing six-nation Asia Cup following first-round defeats by Bangladesh and Afghanistan. "The National Selectors on Sunday decided to appoint Dinesh Chandimal as the ODI captain to lead the team in the upcoming England series," Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) said in a statement. "Accordingly, they have requested Angelo Mathews to relinquish his duties as the National ODI & T20I captain, with immediate effect." The decision has upset Mathews, who felt he had been made a "scapegoat" and offered to retire from limited-overs cricket, according to ESPNCricinfo http://www.espncricinfo.com, which published the all-rounder's letter to SLC chief executive Ashley de Silva. "I'm willing to take part of the blame but, at the same time, feel betrayed and let down if the blame is solely put on me," Mathews wrote. "If the selectors and coach are of the view that I am unfit to play ODI and T20 cricket and thus not entitled for my place in the team, I would also consider retiring from the ODI and T20 formats as I never want to be a burden to the team." Sri Lanka have been grappling with a leadership crisis over the last 18 months, during which Upul Tharanga, Lasith Malinga, Chamara Kapugedera and Thisara Perera have also been tried as ODI captains. From Oct. 10, Sri Lanka will host England for five one-day internationals, a one-off Twenty20 and three tests.

Chandimal to lead all Sri Lanka sides after Asia Cup flop

Bangladesh beat Afghanistan by three runs in a sensational finish to the Super Four game of the Asia Cup at Sheikh Zayed Stadium on Sunday.

Needing eight to win in the last over, Afghanistan scored four after they were set 250 to win, finishing on 246-7.

Bangladesh had made 249-7 in their 50 overs.

Bangladesh's win means India sailed into the September 28 final in Dubai while Pakistan and Bangladesh meet in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday to decide the second finalist.

Bangladesh beat Afghanistan by three runs in a sensational finish to the Super Four game of the Asia Cup at Sheikh Zayed Stadium on Sunday. Needing eight to win in the last over, Afghanistan scored four after they were set 250 to win, finishing on 246-7.

Bangladesh beat Afghanistan by three runs in a sensational finish to the Super Four game of the Asia Cup at Sheikh Zayed Stadium on Sunday. Needing eight to win in the last over, Afghanistan scored four after they were set 250 to win, finishing on 246-7. Bangladesh had made 249-7 in their 50 overs. Bangladesh's win means India sailed into the September 28 final in Dubai while Pakistan and Bangladesh meet in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday to decide the second finalist.

Asia Cup 2018: Bangladesh beat Afghanistan by three runs

Arsenal broke down a determined Everton defence to win 2-0 on Sunday, with second-half goals from Alexandre Lacazette and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang giving the Gunners their fourth straight Premier League victory.

Everton had created most of the early chances as they looked for their first victory at Arsenal since January 1996.

Richarlison and Dominic Calvert-Lewin both fired in a number of shots, the Brazilian in particular leaving Gunners defender Hector Bellerin in his wake repeatedly as he turned and darted towards goal. But both were unable to beat Arsenal keeper Petr Cech, who was determined to register his side's first clean sheet of the season.&nbsp;

Late in the half, Everton defender Lucas Digne also went close, whipping in a free kick from just outside the area that Cech deftly tipped back over the bar.

Arsenal by contrast seemed to lack a finishing touch despite having two-thirds of the possession, with striker Lacazette often failing to control the ball when passed to.

The Frenchman found his feet just short of the hour mark, however, running in from the left before elegantly curling the ball into the far corner just beyond the reach of outstretched England keeper Jordan Pickford.

Gabon international Aubameyang doubled the lead two minutes later from what appeared to be an offside position, sending Pickford the wrong way from close range.

"A big thanks to Petr Cech because he took a lot of balls today and we won our first clean sheet," Lacazette told Sky Sports.&nbsp;

The win pushes the Gunners up to sixth in the table with 12 points, six points adrift of leaders Liverpool, while the Toffees stay in 12th place with six points.

Arsenal broke down a determined Everton defence to win 2-0 on Sunday, with second-half goals from Alexandre Lacazette and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang giving the Gunners their fourth straight Premier League victory.

Arsenal broke down a determined Everton defence to win 2-0 on Sunday, with second-half goals from Alexandre Lacazette and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang giving the Gunners their fourth straight Premier League victory. Everton had created most of the early chances as they looked for their first victory at Arsenal since January 1996. Richarlison and Dominic Calvert-Lewin both fired in a number of shots, the Brazilian in particular leaving Gunners defender Hector Bellerin in his wake repeatedly as he turned and darted towards goal. But both were unable to beat Arsenal keeper Petr Cech, who was determined to register his side's first clean sheet of the season. Late in the half, Everton defender Lucas Digne also went close, whipping in a free kick from just outside the area that Cech deftly tipped back over the bar. Arsenal by contrast seemed to lack a finishing touch despite having two-thirds of the possession, with striker Lacazette often failing to control the ball when passed to. The Frenchman found his feet just short of the hour mark, however, running in from the left before elegantly curling the ball into the far corner just beyond the reach of outstretched England keeper Jordan Pickford. Gabon international Aubameyang doubled the lead two minutes later from what appeared to be an offside position, sending Pickford the wrong way from close range. "A big thanks to Petr Cech because he took a lot of balls today and we won our first clean sheet," Lacazette told Sky Sports. The win pushes the Gunners up to sixth in the table with 12 points, six points adrift of leaders Liverpool, while the Toffees stay in 12th place with six points.

Lacazette, Aubameyang help Arsenal edge past Everton

Pakistani cricket fan Adil Taj revealed the reason behind singing Indian national anthem during the group stage match between India and Pakistan in the ongoing Asia Cup tournament.

The video went viral, in which Adil was singing the Indian national anthem during the pre-match ceremony.

While speaking to ANI, Adil revealed that&nbsp;he had got goosebumps when he listened to the Indian national anthem for the first time in a Bollywood movie.

"I got goosebumps when I first heard the anthem in a Bollywood movie," he added.

"The moment Indian national anthem was played, I got a reminder of Pakistan Prime Minister&nbsp;Imran Khan&nbsp;stating that If India would move one step ahead then we would move two steps further. It was a small gesture from my side towards peace, towards respect," said Adil.

He also said that he will&nbsp;stitch the India-Pakistan flag together and wear it during the Super Four clash between the two countries on Sunday.

Watch the video:

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The best thing on Internet today!! 
-------------------------------------- 
A Pakistani cricket fan singing the Indian National Anthem on the eve of India-Pakistani ODI, during the ongoing Asia Cup in UAE.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvsPAK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvsPAK</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AsiaCup2018?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AsiaCup2018</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cricket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cricket</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AsiaCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AsiaCup</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UAE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UAE</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/nationalanthem?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#nationalanthem</a> <a href="https://t.co/9qfHcvBUdy">pic.twitter.com/9qfHcvBUdy</a>
— Syed Ahmad Afzāl (अफ़्ज़ाल) (@afzalistan) <a href="https://twitter.com/afzalistan/status/1043178394102444035?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 21, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"I am very excited ahead of the match. I am planning to stitch India-Pakistan flag together and wear it for tomorrow's match. That would be another positive message from my side," he said.

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I sang Pak anthem&amp;tried my best when Indian anthem was played. Pak fans listened to it respectfully. It was small gesture towards peace...Plan on carrying both flags tomorrow: Adil Taj, Pak cricket fan who was seen singing Indian national anthem before India-Pak match in Asia Cup <a href="https://t.co/SkCe0qDUVb">pic.twitter.com/SkCe0qDUVb</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1043545577018003457?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 22, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Some Indian fans were sitting with us in our enclosure. When our national anthem was played, I saw how they stood in respect &amp; also clapped for it: Adil Taj, Pakistani cricket fan who was seen singing Indian national anthem before India-Pakistan match in Asia Cup on 19 Sept <a href="https://t.co/Tey55NzRlR">pic.twitter.com/Tey55NzRlR</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1043545573457039360?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 22, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Taj also expressed the desire to have more bilateral series between India and Pakistan so they don't have to wait for major tournaments like&nbsp;Asia Cup&nbsp;and World Cup to see if the two teams are competing or not.

"Sports unite countries. We would again like to have regular series between the two countries. It will play a positive role towards peace, according to me," he concluded.

Pakistani cricket fan Adil Taj revealed the reason behind singing Indian national anthem during the group stage match between India and Pakistan in the ongoing Asia Cup tournament.

Pakistani cricket fan Adil Taj revealed the reason behind singing Indian national anthem during the group stage match between India and Pakistan in the ongoing Asia Cup tournament. The video went viral, in which Adil was singing the Indian national anthem during the pre-match ceremony. While speaking to ANI, Adil revealed that he had got goosebumps when he listened to the Indian national anthem for the first time in a Bollywood movie. "I got goosebumps when I first heard the anthem in a Bollywood movie," he added. "The moment Indian national anthem was played, I got a reminder of Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan stating that If India would move one step ahead then we would move two steps further. It was a small gesture from my side towards peace, towards respect," said Adil. He also said that he will stitch the India-Pakistan flag together and wear it during the Super Four clash between the two countries on Sunday. Watch the video: The best thing on Internet today!! -------------------------------------- A Pakistani cricket fan singing the Indian National Anthem on the eve of India-Pakistani ODI, during the ongoing Asia Cup in UAE.#INDvsPAK #AsiaCup2018 #Cricket #AsiaCup #UAE #nationalanthem pic.twitter.com/9qfHcvBUdy — Syed Ahmad Afzāl (अफ़्ज़ाल) (@afzalistan) September 21, 2018 × "I am very excited ahead of the match. I am planning to stitch India-Pakistan flag together and wear it for tomorrow's match. That would be another positive message from my side," he said. I sang Pak anthem&tried my best when Indian anthem was played. Pak fans listened to it respectfully. It was small gesture towards peace...Plan on carrying both flags tomorrow: Adil Taj, Pak cricket fan who was seen singing Indian national anthem before India-Pak match in Asia Cup pic.twitter.com/SkCe0qDUVb — ANI (@ANI) September 22, 2018 × Some Indian fans were sitting with us in our enclosure. When our national anthem was played, I saw how they stood in respect & also clapped for it: Adil Taj, Pakistani cricket fan who was seen singing Indian national anthem before India-Pakistan match in Asia Cup on 19 Sept pic.twitter.com/Tey55NzRlR — ANI (@ANI) September 22, 2018 × Taj also expressed the desire to have more bilateral series between India and Pakistan so they don't have to wait for major tournaments like Asia Cup and World Cup to see if the two teams are competing or not. "Sports unite countries. We would again like to have regular series between the two countries. It will play a positive role towards peace, according to me," he concluded.

Asia Cup 2018: Pakistani cricket fan reveals reason to sing Indian national anthem

Mahmudullah Riyad and Imarul Kayes knocked half centuries to lift Bangladesh to a fighting 249-7 in their Super Four Stage match against Afghanistan in Abu Dhabi on Sunday.

Riyad scored 81-ball 74 with two sixes and three boundaries while Kayes,&nbsp;recalled as a back-up to strengthen the batting,&nbsp;made 89 ball 72 not out to help Bangladesh recover from a precarious 5-87 at Sheikh Zayed Stadium.

Opener Liton Das scored 41 and Mushfiqur Rahim made 33 but Bangaldesh - who won the toss and batted -- owed their total to a solid 128-run stand for the sixth wicket between Riyad and Kayes.

Kayes gave good support to Riyad as the two built the innings after Bangladesh's star batsman Shakib Al Hasan was run out for nought.

Kayes hit six boundaries as Bangladesh played the dangerous spinning duo of Rashid Khan and Mujeeb Ur Rahman who managed a wicket each.

Both Afghanistan and Bangladesh, who have lost their opening Super Four matches, need a win to stay in the hunt for the September 28th final in Dubai. &nbsp;

Mahmudullah Riyad and Imarul Kayes knocked half centuries to lift Bangladesh to a fighting 249-7 in their Super Four Stage match against Afghanistan in Abu Dhabi on Sunday.

Mahmudullah Riyad and Imarul Kayes knocked half centuries to lift Bangladesh to a fighting 249-7 in their Super Four Stage match against Afghanistan in Abu Dhabi on Sunday. Riyad scored 81-ball 74 with two sixes and three boundaries while Kayes, recalled as a back-up to strengthen the batting, made 89 ball 72 not out to help Bangladesh recover from a precarious 5-87 at Sheikh Zayed Stadium. Opener Liton Das scored 41 and Mushfiqur Rahim made 33 but Bangaldesh - who won the toss and batted -- owed their total to a solid 128-run stand for the sixth wicket between Riyad and Kayes. Kayes gave good support to Riyad as the two built the innings after Bangladesh's star batsman Shakib Al Hasan was run out for nought. Kayes hit six boundaries as Bangladesh played the dangerous spinning duo of Rashid Khan and Mujeeb Ur Rahman who managed a wicket each. Both Afghanistan and Bangladesh, who have lost their opening Super Four matches, need a win to stay in the hunt for the September 28th final in Dubai.

Asia Cup: Kayes and Mahmudullah lift Bangladesh to 249-7

Pakistan were once again short of a fighting total as they managed 237-7 in their 50 overs despite an attractive half century by Shoaib Malik in the Asia Cup game against India in Dubai on Sunday.

Malik scored a 90-ball 78 with four boundaries and two sixes, but India kept a tight check on Pakistan's progress after they won the toss and elected to &nbsp;bat.

Pakistan lost Imam-ul-Haq (ten), Fakhar Zaman (31) and Babar Azam (run out for nine) in an unimpressive start to their innings before Malik and skipper Sarfraz Ahmed added 107 for the fourth wicket.

Sarfraz scored a slow 66-ball 44 with only two boundaries before he became one of two Kuldeep Yadav's wicket who finished with 2-41.

Pakistan's final over score depended on Malik who crucially fell in the 44th over, caught behind off a leg-side edge off Jasprit Bumrah.

Asif Ali smashed two sixes in his 21-ball 30 before he was bowled by leg-spinner Yuzvndra Chahal who took 2-38 in his nine overs.

Bumran finished with 2-29 in his ten overs.

India kept the same team which beat Bangladesh on Friday while Pakistan brought back paceman Mohammad Amir and fit again Shadab Khan in place of Usman Shinwari and Haris Sohail from the side which won against Afghanista, also on Friday.&nbsp;

The top two teams from the Super four will play the final on September 28 in Dubai.

Pakistan were once again short of a fighting total as they managed 237-7 in their 50 overs despite an attractive half century by Shoaib Malik in the Asia Cup game against India in Dubai on Sunday.

Pakistan were once again short of a fighting total as they managed 237-7 in their 50 overs despite an attractive half century by Shoaib Malik in the Asia Cup game against India in Dubai on Sunday. Malik scored a 90-ball 78 with four boundaries and two sixes, but India kept a tight check on Pakistan's progress after they won the toss and elected to bat. Pakistan lost Imam-ul-Haq (ten), Fakhar Zaman (31) and Babar Azam (run out for nine) in an unimpressive start to their innings before Malik and skipper Sarfraz Ahmed added 107 for the fourth wicket. Sarfraz scored a slow 66-ball 44 with only two boundaries before he became one of two Kuldeep Yadav's wicket who finished with 2-41. Pakistan's final over score depended on Malik who crucially fell in the 44th over, caught behind off a leg-side edge off Jasprit Bumrah. Asif Ali smashed two sixes in his 21-ball 30 before he was bowled by leg-spinner Yuzvndra Chahal who took 2-38 in his nine overs. Bumran finished with 2-29 in his ten overs. India kept the same team which beat Bangladesh on Friday while Pakistan brought back paceman Mohammad Amir and fit again Shadab Khan in place of Usman Shinwari and Haris Sohail from the side which won against Afghanista, also on Friday. The top two teams from the Super four will play the final on September 28 in Dubai.

Asia Cup, India vs Pak: Pakistan out for 237/7, Shoaib Malik top-scores with 78

Bangladesh lost two early wickets again to put the middle order under pressure.

Earlier, opener Lipton Das and wicketkeeper-batsman Mushfiqur Rahim helped Bangladesh recover from the early losses after the side was reduced to 18 for the loss of two wickets in the super four game of the Asia Cup.&nbsp;

Das lost his wicket to Rashid Khan for 41 runs, while Rahim was run out for 33 runs. Shakib Al Hasan, on the other hand, was also run-out by Shenwari. He left the ground without opening his account.&nbsp;

After 21 overs bowled, Bangladesh are 87 for the loss of five wickets.&nbsp;

Nazmul Hossain Shanto was the first one to be dismissed by Afghanistani bowlers, followed by Mohammad Mithun.

While Shanto was dismissed for six runs by Aftab Alam, Mithun was left the ground by a brilliant lbw by Mujeeb Ur Rahman.

Bangladesh captain Mashrafe Mortaza on Sunday won the toss and opted to bat against Afghanistan. The two teams, who lost their first Super Four matches, will face each other next in a bid to revive their campaigns.

While Afghanistan lost the match to Pakistan by three wickets, Bangladesh were comprehensively beaten by India by registering a 7-wicket victory. &nbsp;

Both teams now need a win to stay alive in the competition and will have to put their best foot forward in this match.

Bangladesh lost two early wickets again to put the middle order under pressure. Earlier, opener Lipton Das and wicketkeeper-batsman Mushfiqur Rahim helped Bangladesh recover from the early losses after the side was reduced to 18 for the loss of two wickets in the super four game of the Asia Cup.

Bangladesh lost two early wickets again to put the middle order under pressure. Earlier, opener Lipton Das and wicketkeeper-batsman Mushfiqur Rahim helped Bangladesh recover from the early losses after the side was reduced to 18 for the loss of two wickets in the super four game of the Asia Cup. Das lost his wicket to Rashid Khan for 41 runs, while Rahim was run out for 33 runs. Shakib Al Hasan, on the other hand, was also run-out by Shenwari. He left the ground without opening his account. After 21 overs bowled, Bangladesh are 87 for the loss of five wickets. Nazmul Hossain Shanto was the first one to be dismissed by Afghanistani bowlers, followed by Mohammad Mithun. While Shanto was dismissed for six runs by Aftab Alam, Mithun was left the ground by a brilliant lbw by Mujeeb Ur Rahman. Bangladesh captain Mashrafe Mortaza on Sunday won the toss and opted to bat against Afghanistan. The two teams, who lost their first Super Four matches, will face each other next in a bid to revive their campaigns. While Afghanistan lost the match to Pakistan by three wickets, Bangladesh were comprehensively beaten by India by registering a 7-wicket victory. Both teams now need a win to stay alive in the competition and will have to put their best foot forward in this match.

Asia Cup: Bangladesh lose three early wickets, are 87/5 after 21 overs

Yuzvendra Chahal broke Pakistan's opening partnership to give India its first wicket in the super four clash of the Asia Cup on Sunday.

Chahal bowled a beautiful delivery to lbw Imam-ul-Haq for just 10 runs.

Imam was however given not out by the umpire but was soon asked to leave the ground after India went for a review.&nbsp;

Opting to bat, Pakistan are&nbsp;44 runs for the loss of one wicket after 13 overs.

Pakistan skipper Sarfaraz Ahmed said, " It's a used pitch. Looks like a flat wicket so we would like to put a good score on the board today. Amir will play today, and Fakhar has been asked to dig in there and hopefully, he can be more steady if he can spend more time out in the middle."

"Shadab is in for Haris and Amir is in for Usman Shenwari. We need to perform well in all three departments and today's performance is crucial for all of us. We will try to score over 250 and defend the score," he added.

India had easily defeated Pakistan by eight wickets in the group stage match of the tournament.&nbsp;

Speaking about India's strategy, skipper Rohit Sharma said, "If we continue to bowl the way we have, and today will be no different. If we can repeat the feats of the last two games, I'll be a happy captain. I don't think about stats when I play (about India's chances improving when he scores a 50)."&nbsp;

"It's important for me to get my team off to a good start. That's my job. That's the role I play. It is important to not lose early wickets, and if the runs come for me then that is in the best interest of the team. I'm happy with the wrist spinners. They went wicketless in the last game but they know what they're doing, they know what is expected of them in the middle overs," he added.

"They're still learning, and they know what is expected of them. It is important to come out with some good tactical nous when the batsmen go after them in the middle overs. They have done it in the past a lot of times, and a few off-games doesn't mean they are bad bowlers."&nbsp;

"Sometimes the opposition has to be appreciated for the way they play Chahal and Kuldeep, especially given the fact that batsmen try to read them off the hand - what with all the technology and slow-motion videos available. We're going in with the same team today," he concluded.

Yuzvendra Chahal broke Pakistan's opening partnership to give India its first wicket in the super four clash of the Asia Cup on Sunday. Chahal bowled a beautiful delivery to lbw Imam-ul-Haq for just 10 runs.

Yuzvendra Chahal broke Pakistan's opening partnership to give India its first wicket in the super four clash of the Asia Cup on Sunday. Chahal bowled a beautiful delivery to lbw Imam-ul-Haq for just 10 runs. Imam was however given not out by the umpire but was soon asked to leave the ground after India went for a review. Opting to bat, Pakistan are 44 runs for the loss of one wicket after 13 overs. Pakistan skipper Sarfaraz Ahmed said, " It's a used pitch. Looks like a flat wicket so we would like to put a good score on the board today. Amir will play today, and Fakhar has been asked to dig in there and hopefully, he can be more steady if he can spend more time out in the middle." "Shadab is in for Haris and Amir is in for Usman Shenwari. We need to perform well in all three departments and today's performance is crucial for all of us. We will try to score over 250 and defend the score," he added. India had easily defeated Pakistan by eight wickets in the group stage match of the tournament. Speaking about India's strategy, skipper Rohit Sharma said, "If we continue to bowl the way we have, and today will be no different. If we can repeat the feats of the last two games, I'll be a happy captain. I don't think about stats when I play (about India's chances improving when he scores a 50)." "It's important for me to get my team off to a good start. That's my job. That's the role I play. It is important to not lose early wickets, and if the runs come for me then that is in the best interest of the team. I'm happy with the wrist spinners. They went wicketless in the last game but they know what they're doing, they know what is expected of them in the middle overs," he added. "They're still learning, and they know what is expected of them. It is important to come out with some good tactical nous when the batsmen go after them in the middle overs. They have done it in the past a lot of times, and a few off-games doesn't mean they are bad bowlers." "Sometimes the opposition has to be appreciated for the way they play Chahal and Kuldeep, especially given the fact that batsmen try to read them off the hand - what with all the technology and slow-motion videos available. We're going in with the same team today," he concluded.

 Asia Cup: Chahal breaks Pakistan's opening partnership, are 44/1 after 13 overs  

Bangladesh captain Mashrafe Mortaza on Sunday won the toss and opted to bat against Afghanistan.&nbsp;The two teams, who lost their first Super Four matches, will face each other next in a bid to revive their campaigns.

While Afghanistan lost the match to Pakistan by three wickets, Bangladesh were comprehensively beaten by India by registering a 7-wicket victory. &nbsp;

Taking after toss, Mortaza said, " We got two changes. We are playing with an extra spinner. Nazmul Islam is making his debut today. Imrul Kayes comes in for Mosaddek Hossain. We have to play with confidence. They have world class bowlers. We have to back our techniques and play confidently."

"If we have a good start, we can carry on from there. We need to win. Hopefully, boys recovered well and give a big shot today," he added.

Meanwhile, Afghanistan skipper said, "On this track, everyone would have wanted to bat. But, that doesn't matter. We have one change. Najibullah is not playing. Samiullah comes in."

"Yesterday, we had a bit of rest. We have a very important game to play. Afghanistan are not just coming here to play, we want to win matches," he added.

Both teams now need a win to stay alive in the competition and will have to put their best foot forward in this match.

Teams:

Bangladesh (Playing XI): Liton Das, Imrul Kayes, Shakib Al Hasan, Mushfiqur Rahim(w), Nazmul Hossain Shanto, Mohammad Mithun, Mahmudullah, Mashrafe Mortaza(c), Mehidy Hasan, Mustafizur Rahman, Nazmul Islam

Afghanistan (Playing XI): Mohammad Shahzad(w), Ihsanullah Janat, Rahmat Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi, Samiullah Shenwari, Asghar Afghan(c), Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Rashid Khan, Aftab Alam, Mujeeb Ur Rahman 
&nbsp;

Bangladesh captain Mashrafe Mortaza on Sunday won the toss and opted to bat against Afghanistan. The two teams, who lost their first Super Four matches, will face each other next in a bid to revive their campaigns.

Bangladesh captain Mashrafe Mortaza on Sunday won the toss and opted to bat against Afghanistan. The two teams, who lost their first Super Four matches, will face each other next in a bid to revive their campaigns. While Afghanistan lost the match to Pakistan by three wickets, Bangladesh were comprehensively beaten by India by registering a 7-wicket victory. Taking after toss, Mortaza said, " We got two changes. We are playing with an extra spinner. Nazmul Islam is making his debut today. Imrul Kayes comes in for Mosaddek Hossain. We have to play with confidence. They have world class bowlers. We have to back our techniques and play confidently." "If we have a good start, we can carry on from there. We need to win. Hopefully, boys recovered well and give a big shot today," he added. Meanwhile, Afghanistan skipper said, "On this track, everyone would have wanted to bat. But, that doesn't matter. We have one change. Najibullah is not playing. Samiullah comes in." "Yesterday, we had a bit of rest. We have a very important game to play. Afghanistan are not just coming here to play, we want to win matches," he added. Both teams now need a win to stay alive in the competition and will have to put their best foot forward in this match. Teams: Bangladesh (Playing XI): Liton Das, Imrul Kayes, Shakib Al Hasan, Mushfiqur Rahim(w), Nazmul Hossain Shanto, Mohammad Mithun, Mahmudullah, Mashrafe Mortaza(c), Mehidy Hasan, Mustafizur Rahman, Nazmul Islam Afghanistan (Playing XI): Mohammad Shahzad(w), Ihsanullah Janat, Rahmat Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi, Samiullah Shenwari, Asghar Afghan(c), Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Rashid Khan, Aftab Alam, Mujeeb Ur Rahman

Asia Cup: Bangladesh opt to bat against Afghanistan 

Rohit Sharma-led team India is set to give a tough fight to their arch-rivals Pakistan in the&nbsp;Super Fours clash at the Dubai International Stadium on Sunday.

Previously, India produced a stunning show&nbsp;to defeat Pakistan by eight wickets in the Group match of the same tournament.

After the India-Pak clash, India produced another clinical performance against Bangladesh and marked an easy victory in the opening Super Four match.

India will look to maintain the same momentum while Pakistan will be looking to improve their game after a massive scare against Afghanistan in their previous match which they won in the a last over finish.

The batting line-up of Pakistan especially the opening batsmen have been struggling so far in the series, however, the veteran Shoaib Malik has proved his mettle by playing responsible innings in previous crucial matches. He scored 43 against India and an unbeaten 51 against Afghanistan.

For India, both bowling and batting departments have chipped&nbsp;in to guide the team towards the victory. Special mention to all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, who made a comeback to the team, also dished out a splendid performance to rip through Bangladesh's batting line-up with a four-wicket haul.

Pakistan will be looking to put aside their disappointing performance against India in the last match and giving the Men in Blue a tough competition.

Here is the playing XI (TBC):&nbsp;

India:&nbsp;Rohit Sharma (c), Shikhar Dhawan, Ambati Rayudu, Dinesh Karthik, MS Dhoni (wk), Kedar Jadhav, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Kuldeep Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Yuzvendra Chahal, Jasprit Bumrah.

Pakistan:&nbsp;Imam-ul-Haq, Fakhar Zaman, Sarfraz Ahmed (c and wk), Babar Azam, Shoaib Malik, Asif Ali, Shadab Khan, Faheem Ashraf, Mohammad Amir, Hasan Ali, Usman Khan.

Rohit Sharma-led team India is set to give a tough fight to their arch-rivals Pakistan in the Super Fours clash at the Dubai International Stadium on Sunday. Previously, India produced a stunning show to defeat Pakistan by eight wickets in the Group match of the same tournament.

Rohit Sharma-led team India is set to give a tough fight to their arch-rivals Pakistan in the Super Fours clash at the Dubai International Stadium on Sunday. Previously, India produced a stunning show to defeat Pakistan by eight wickets in the Group match of the same tournament. After the India-Pak clash, India produced another clinical performance against Bangladesh and marked an easy victory in the opening Super Four match. India will look to maintain the same momentum while Pakistan will be looking to improve their game after a massive scare against Afghanistan in their previous match which they won in the a last over finish. The batting line-up of Pakistan especially the opening batsmen have been struggling so far in the series, however, the veteran Shoaib Malik has proved his mettle by playing responsible innings in previous crucial matches. He scored 43 against India and an unbeaten 51 against Afghanistan. For India, both bowling and batting departments have chipped in to guide the team towards the victory. Special mention to all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, who made a comeback to the team, also dished out a splendid performance to rip through Bangladesh's batting line-up with a four-wicket haul. Pakistan will be looking to put aside their disappointing performance against India in the last match and giving the Men in Blue a tough competition. Here is the playing XI (TBC): India: Rohit Sharma (c), Shikhar Dhawan, Ambati Rayudu, Dinesh Karthik, MS Dhoni (wk), Kedar Jadhav, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Kuldeep Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Yuzvendra Chahal, Jasprit Bumrah. Pakistan: Imam-ul-Haq, Fakhar Zaman, Sarfraz Ahmed (c and wk), Babar Azam, Shoaib Malik, Asif Ali, Shadab Khan, Faheem Ashraf, Mohammad Amir, Hasan Ali, Usman Khan.

Who will win? It's India vs Pakistan once again at Asia Cup 2018

Pakistan's paceman Hasan Ali and Afghanistan's Asghar Afghan and Rashid Khan have all been fined on Saturday for violating the players' code of conduct, the International Cricket Council said Saturday.

Pakistan narrowly beat Afghanistan by three wickets in a highly charged Asia Cup Super Four match in Abu Dhabi on Friday, with Shoaib Malik hitting a six and four in the last over.

"Hasan, and Afghanistan's duo of Asghar and Rashid have all been fined 15 per cent of their match fees. They have also received one demerit point in separate incidents during the match on Friday," the ICC said.

"After the match, all the three players pleaded guilty to the offences and accepted the sanctions proposed by Andy Pycroft of the Elite Panel of ICC Match Referees and, as such, there was no need for a formal hearing."

The ICC said: "Rashid was charged and fined for giving a sendoff to Asif Ali in the 47th over of Pakistan's innings by holding up a finger and staring at the batsman, an action that could have provoked an aggressive reaction from the departing batsman."

"Hasan and Asghar were found guilty of 'conduct that is contrary to the spirit of the game and using language, actions or gestures which disparage or which could provoke an aggressive reaction from a batsman upon his/her dismissal during an International Match.'

"While Hasan and Rashid have received demerit points for the first time, it is the second occasion that Asghar has been handed a demerit point within a 24-month period.&nbsp;

"The incident involving Hasan happened in the 33rd over of Afghanistan's innings when he threatened to throw the ball towards striker Hashmatullah Shahidi after fielding off his own bowling.

"As regards the incident involving Asghar, the Afghanistan captain brushed his shoulder with the bowler Hasan in the 37th over as he passed him while taking a run." &nbsp;

Pakistan's paceman Hasan Ali and Afghanistan's Asghar Afghan and Rashid Khan have all been fined on Saturday for violating the players' code of conduct, the International Cricket Council said Saturday.

Pakistan's paceman Hasan Ali and Afghanistan's Asghar Afghan and Rashid Khan have all been fined on Saturday for violating the players' code of conduct, the International Cricket Council said Saturday. Pakistan narrowly beat Afghanistan by three wickets in a highly charged Asia Cup Super Four match in Abu Dhabi on Friday, with Shoaib Malik hitting a six and four in the last over. "Hasan, and Afghanistan's duo of Asghar and Rashid have all been fined 15 per cent of their match fees. They have also received one demerit point in separate incidents during the match on Friday," the ICC said. "After the match, all the three players pleaded guilty to the offences and accepted the sanctions proposed by Andy Pycroft of the Elite Panel of ICC Match Referees and, as such, there was no need for a formal hearing." The ICC said: "Rashid was charged and fined for giving a sendoff to Asif Ali in the 47th over of Pakistan's innings by holding up a finger and staring at the batsman, an action that could have provoked an aggressive reaction from the departing batsman." "Hasan and Asghar were found guilty of 'conduct that is contrary to the spirit of the game and using language, actions or gestures which disparage or which could provoke an aggressive reaction from a batsman upon his/her dismissal during an International Match.' "While Hasan and Rashid have received demerit points for the first time, it is the second occasion that Asghar has been handed a demerit point within a 24-month period. "The incident involving Hasan happened in the 33rd over of Afghanistan's innings when he threatened to throw the ball towards striker Hashmatullah Shahidi after fielding off his own bowling. "As regards the incident involving Asghar, the Afghanistan captain brushed his shoulder with the bowler Hasan in the 37th over as he passed him while taking a run."

Pakistan and Afghanistan players fined in Asia Cup: ICC

All-rounder Ravindra Jadeja shone brightly for team India as the Men in Blue defeated Bangladesh by seven wickets in the Super Four, Match 1 at Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai on Friday.&nbsp;

India's skipper Rohit Sharma's unbeaten 83 inspire the team towards victory in 36.2 overs for the loss of three wickets.&nbsp;

Jadeja's four-wicket haul helped India to restrict Bangladesh to an achievable score in 49.1 overs.&nbsp;

He took crucial wickets of Mosaddek Hossain, Mohammad Mithun, Mushfiqur Rahim and Shakib Al Hasan to wreck Bangladesh's batting order.&nbsp;

Veteran pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar (3-32) and Jasprit Bumrah (3-37) were also ruthless as Bangladeshi batting couldn't get going with tail-ender Mehidy Hasan top-scoring with a 50-ball 42 with two sixes and two boundaries.&nbsp;

Bangladesh, who were bowled out for a mere 119 against Afghanistan on Thursday, were once again off to a disastrous start during which they lost half the side for just 65 runs.

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Three wins out of three at the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AsiaCup2018?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AsiaCup2018</a> for India! 🇮🇳 
 
Rohit Sharma and Ravindra Jadeja starred in a comfortable 7 wicket win against Bangladesh.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvBAN?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvBAN</a> REPORT 👇<a href="https://t.co/iC1Fvk20OR">https://t.co/iC1Fvk20OR</a> <a href="https://t.co/8TlaGEZ1TD">pic.twitter.com/8TlaGEZ1TD</a>
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Mushfiqur Rahman, who scored a brilliant hundred against Sri Lanka, managed 21 while star batsman Shakib Al Hasan failed yet again with 17.

All-rounder Ravindra Jadeja shone brightly for team India as the Men in Blue defeated Bangladesh by seven wickets in the Super Four, Match 1 at Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai on Friday.

All-rounder Ravindra Jadeja shone brightly for team India as the Men in Blue defeated Bangladesh by seven wickets in the Super Four, Match 1 at Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai on Friday. India's skipper Rohit Sharma's unbeaten 83 inspire the team towards victory in 36.2 overs for the loss of three wickets. Jadeja's four-wicket haul helped India to restrict Bangladesh to an achievable score in 49.1 overs. He took crucial wickets of Mosaddek Hossain, Mohammad Mithun, Mushfiqur Rahim and Shakib Al Hasan to wreck Bangladesh's batting order. Veteran pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar (3-32) and Jasprit Bumrah (3-37) were also ruthless as Bangladeshi batting couldn't get going with tail-ender Mehidy Hasan top-scoring with a 50-ball 42 with two sixes and two boundaries. Bangladesh, who were bowled out for a mere 119 against Afghanistan on Thursday, were once again off to a disastrous start during which they lost half the side for just 65 runs. Three wins out of three at the #AsiaCup2018 for India! 🇮🇳 Rohit Sharma and Ravindra Jadeja starred in a comfortable 7 wicket win against Bangladesh.#INDvBAN REPORT 👇https://t.co/iC1Fvk20OR pic.twitter.com/8TlaGEZ1TD — ICC (@ICC) September 21, 2018 × Mushfiqur Rahman, who scored a brilliant hundred against Sri Lanka, managed 21 while star batsman Shakib Al Hasan failed yet again with 17.

India beat Bangladesh by 7 wickets in Asia Cup Super Four

While India and Pakistan's fierce cricket rivalry has been on display at the Asian Cup in the United Arab Emirates, some families in the country have divided loyalties.&nbsp;

The UAE is home to many cricket-loving cross-border couples from India and Pakistan who find it an easier option than living on the subcontinent, where Pakistanis have trouble getting visas for India, and vice versa.&nbsp;

Cross-border ties have been strained ever since the violence and upheaval that accompanied the creation of modern India and Pakistan at the end of British rule in August 1947.&nbsp;

The two have fought three wars since becoming independent, deepening mistrust and suspicion of each other, while thousands of families remain divided by the border.

Relations further soured after the 2008 Mumbai attacks, and cross-border unions are now few and far between.&nbsp;

One rare high-profile example is Indian tennis player Sania Mirza and her husband, Pakistani cricketer Shoaib Malik, who have a home in Dubai.&nbsp;

Indian national Kasim Vakkil and his wife Ghazala, from Pakistan, are also part of the UAE's large South Asian community.&nbsp;

"My marriage would not have been possible if we were not living in UAE," Kasim told AFP.

"Ghazala is from Lahore and I am from Mumbai but living at this neutral venue made our marriage possible."

They came together through cricket when Kasim met his future father-in-law at a game between Pakistan and South Africa in the UAE, where Pakistan hosts games owing to the risk of terror attacks on home soil.

"I went to watch a match between Pakistan and South Africa in 2014 where I met Ghazala's father which became the first step towards our proposal," said Kasim, a former college-level fast bowler in Mumbai.

"I would not have imagined watching Pakistani cricketers like Shahid Afridi, Abdul Razzaq and Mohammad Amir before my own eyes but it became possible since UAE became a neutral venue for the Pakistan team."&nbsp;

'Double joy'&nbsp;

Ghazala, who works in human resources, said watching India and Pakistan play made her think of home.

India thrashed Pakistan by eight wickets in the group stage and they are set to meet again in the Super Fours on Sunday.

"Now with India and Pakistan playing in UAE for the Asian title it has given us double joy as we get to see players from both the countries which gives us a nostalgic feeling," said Ghazala.

India is playing in the Emirates for the first time since 2006, sparking huge interest among the country's large number of Indian expats.

Club-level cricketer Naveed Siraj hails from Srinagar in Indian-administered Kashmir, while his wife, Nida, is from the Pakistani capital Islamabad.

"My uncle and aunty lived in Kuwait and Nida's family were their neighbours so they initiated the talk for our marriage," said Naveed.

"UAE is a neutral venue for all the expats from Pakistan and India so everyone lives here in comfort and enjoys everything including cricket."

Dubai taxi driver Sunil Manohar, from India's Karnataka state, married Nunda from Pakistan's Sindh province after their families met in the UAE.

"UAE is a nice place for cross-border families," he said. "In the past, a few couples were stuck in Pakistan because they were not getting an Indian visa."

While India and Pakistan's fierce cricket rivalry has been on display at the Asian Cup in the United Arab Emirates, some families in the country have divided loyalties.

While India and Pakistan's fierce cricket rivalry has been on display at the Asian Cup in the United Arab Emirates, some families in the country have divided loyalties. The UAE is home to many cricket-loving cross-border couples from India and Pakistan who find it an easier option than living on the subcontinent, where Pakistanis have trouble getting visas for India, and vice versa. Cross-border ties have been strained ever since the violence and upheaval that accompanied the creation of modern India and Pakistan at the end of British rule in August 1947. The two have fought three wars since becoming independent, deepening mistrust and suspicion of each other, while thousands of families remain divided by the border. Relations further soured after the 2008 Mumbai attacks, and cross-border unions are now few and far between. One rare high-profile example is Indian tennis player Sania Mirza and her husband, Pakistani cricketer Shoaib Malik, who have a home in Dubai. Indian national Kasim Vakkil and his wife Ghazala, from Pakistan, are also part of the UAE's large South Asian community. "My marriage would not have been possible if we were not living in UAE," Kasim told AFP. "Ghazala is from Lahore and I am from Mumbai but living at this neutral venue made our marriage possible." They came together through cricket when Kasim met his future father-in-law at a game between Pakistan and South Africa in the UAE, where Pakistan hosts games owing to the risk of terror attacks on home soil. "I went to watch a match between Pakistan and South Africa in 2014 where I met Ghazala's father which became the first step towards our proposal," said Kasim, a former college-level fast bowler in Mumbai. "I would not have imagined watching Pakistani cricketers like Shahid Afridi, Abdul Razzaq and Mohammad Amir before my own eyes but it became possible since UAE became a neutral venue for the Pakistan team." 'Double joy' Ghazala, who works in human resources, said watching India and Pakistan play made her think of home. India thrashed Pakistan by eight wickets in the group stage and they are set to meet again in the Super Fours on Sunday. "Now with India and Pakistan playing in UAE for the Asian title it has given us double joy as we get to see players from both the countries which gives us a nostalgic feeling," said Ghazala. India is playing in the Emirates for the first time since 2006, sparking huge interest among the country's large number of Indian expats. Club-level cricketer Naveed Siraj hails from Srinagar in Indian-administered Kashmir, while his wife, Nida, is from the Pakistani capital Islamabad. "My uncle and aunty lived in Kuwait and Nida's family were their neighbours so they initiated the talk for our marriage," said Naveed. "UAE is a neutral venue for all the expats from Pakistan and India so everyone lives here in comfort and enjoys everything including cricket." Dubai taxi driver Sunil Manohar, from India's Karnataka state, married Nunda from Pakistan's Sindh province after their families met in the UAE. "UAE is a nice place for cross-border families," he said. "In the past, a few couples were stuck in Pakistan because they were not getting an Indian visa."

The cricket-loving India, Pakistan couples prove love has no boundaries

Pakistan&nbsp;beat Afghanistan by three wickets in a nerve-racking last over finish in the Super Four match of the Asia Cup in Abu Dhabi on Friday.

Afghanistan scored 257-6 in their 50 overs which&nbsp;Pakistan&nbsp;chased down in 49.3 overs for the loss of seven wickets at Abu Dhabi stadium.

Chasing a competitive 258 to win, Pakistan overhauled the target with just three balls to spare with former captain Malik playing the match-winning knock from 43 balls.

Pakistan required 10 runs from the last over and Malik dispatched pacer Aftab Alam for a six and four after playing a dot ball.&nbsp;

Wickets kept falling for Pakistan with star Afghan spinner Rashid Khan yet again proving his utility with a three wicket haul but Malik held his nerves to keep one end tight.

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Pakistan win a thriller in Abu Dhabi! 
 
Afghanistan are denied a maiden victory against their neighbours as Shoaib Malik takes Pakistan home with 3 balls remaining to win by 3 wickets! What a game! 🇵🇰 🇦🇫 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PAKvAFG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PAKvAFG</a> scorecard ➡️ <a href="https://t.co/Sa2zeTsbZ4">https://t.co/Sa2zeTsbZ4</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AsiaCup2018?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AsiaCup2018</a> <a href="https://t.co/DOP6NjEjq4">pic.twitter.com/DOP6NjEjq4</a>
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Before Malik, Imam-ul-Haq (80) and Babar Azam (60) hit patient half-centuries in a 154-run stand but the slow run rate made it difficult for Pakistan.

Electing to bat, Hashmatullah Shahidi (97) missed out on his maiden ODI hundred by just three runs after skipper Asghar Afghan hit a combative 67 off 56 balls as Afghanistan scored a fighting 257 for six.

Their 94-run partnership and some terrific batting towards the end by the Afghans made it an interesting contest as they scored 87 runs in the last 10 overs.

Pakistan made a shaky start, losing opener Fakhar Zaman in the sixth ball of the innings, bowled by Mujeeb ur Rahman, but after that Azam and Imam taking control of the proceedings, though the run-rate was always shooting up.

At the half-way mark, Pakistan had put on board just 103 for one with required touching going beyond six but they the cushion of nine wickets.

The two batsmen out on 154 runs for the second wicket before the bespectacled Imam was run out in the 34th over. It was Najibullah Zadran's direct hit which found Imam short. His 80-run knock came off 104 balls with four shots to the fence and one over the ropes.&nbsp;

Nine balls later, Rashid Khan had Azam stumped. It was when Pakistan needed exact 100 runs from 15 overs.&nbsp;

Pakistan lost Haris Sohail (13), Sarfraz Ahmad (8), Asif Ali (7) and Mohammad Nawaz (10) with Afghan bowlers fighting hard.

In the end, former captain Malik's experience saw them cross the finish the&nbsp; 
line. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Earlier, Shahidi needed a boundary off the last ball to complete his century but Hasan Ali denied him the milestone with a incoming yorker which the left-hander could not put away.

With his skipper Asghar, Shahidi shared a match-changing 94-run stand for the fourth wicket.&nbsp;

Shahidi shifted gears with ease after largely remaining patient in his unbeaten and career-best knock which came off 118 balls. He was bowled off a no ball when he was on 76 in the penultimate over.

Five of his seven boundaries came during the last 14 balls of the Afghan innings.&nbsp;

Asghar had joined left-handed Shahidi at the crease after left-arm spinner Mohammad Nawaz (3/57) removed the top three Afghan batsmen,&nbsp;Mohammad Shahzad (20), Ihsanullah (10) and Rahmat Shah (36).

In his 67-run knock, Asghar showed both aggression and patience and Shahidi was determined, holding one end tight.&nbsp;

Asghar chose right deliveries to go for big shots, hitting five sixes and two fours.

Shahidi and Asghar were tested by the Pakistan pace duo of Hasan Ali and Usman Khan but they refused to be intimidated by the raw pace.

They were sensible in defending and leaving the balls which moved after pitching outside off stump. They kept the scoreboard ticking with pushing and nudging the ball around.

Breakthrough not coming, Pakistan captain Sarfraz handed the ball back to Nawaz but Asghar creamed off 11 runs from his over, hitting a four and six, to end the long boundary drought.

Both the batsmen completed their half-centuries in the 40th over, bowled by young left-arm pacer Shaheen Afridi.

With few overs left, Asghar started hitting each everything thrown at him and was bowled by Afridi after being dropped by Haris Sohail in the 42nd over.

Pakistan beat Afghanistan by three wickets in a nerve-racking last over finish in the Super Four match of the Asia Cup in Abu Dhabi on Friday. Afghanistan scored 257-6 in their 50 overs which Pakistan chased down in 49.

Pakistan beat Afghanistan by three wickets in a nerve-racking last over finish in the Super Four match of the Asia Cup in Abu Dhabi on Friday. Afghanistan scored 257-6 in their 50 overs which Pakistan chased down in 49.3 overs for the loss of seven wickets at Abu Dhabi stadium. Chasing a competitive 258 to win, Pakistan overhauled the target with just three balls to spare with former captain Malik playing the match-winning knock from 43 balls. Pakistan required 10 runs from the last over and Malik dispatched pacer Aftab Alam for a six and four after playing a dot ball. Wickets kept falling for Pakistan with star Afghan spinner Rashid Khan yet again proving his utility with a three wicket haul but Malik held his nerves to keep one end tight. Pakistan win a thriller in Abu Dhabi! Afghanistan are denied a maiden victory against their neighbours as Shoaib Malik takes Pakistan home with 3 balls remaining to win by 3 wickets! What a game! 🇵🇰 🇦🇫 #PAKvAFG scorecard ➡️ https://t.co/Sa2zeTsbZ4#AsiaCup2018 pic.twitter.com/DOP6NjEjq4 — ICC (@ICC) September 21, 2018 × Before Malik, Imam-ul-Haq (80) and Babar Azam (60) hit patient half-centuries in a 154-run stand but the slow run rate made it difficult for Pakistan. Electing to bat, Hashmatullah Shahidi (97) missed out on his maiden ODI hundred by just three runs after skipper Asghar Afghan hit a combative 67 off 56 balls as Afghanistan scored a fighting 257 for six. Their 94-run partnership and some terrific batting towards the end by the Afghans made it an interesting contest as they scored 87 runs in the last 10 overs. Pakistan made a shaky start, losing opener Fakhar Zaman in the sixth ball of the innings, bowled by Mujeeb ur Rahman, but after that Azam and Imam taking control of the proceedings, though the run-rate was always shooting up. At the half-way mark, Pakistan had put on board just 103 for one with required touching going beyond six but they the cushion of nine wickets. The two batsmen out on 154 runs for the second wicket before the bespectacled Imam was run out in the 34th over. It was Najibullah Zadran's direct hit which found Imam short. His 80-run knock came off 104 balls with four shots to the fence and one over the ropes. Nine balls later, Rashid Khan had Azam stumped. It was when Pakistan needed exact 100 runs from 15 overs. Pakistan lost Haris Sohail (13), Sarfraz Ahmad (8), Asif Ali (7) and Mohammad Nawaz (10) with Afghan bowlers fighting hard. In the end, former captain Malik's experience saw them cross the finish the line. Earlier, Shahidi needed a boundary off the last ball to complete his century but Hasan Ali denied him the milestone with a incoming yorker which the left-hander could not put away. With his skipper Asghar, Shahidi shared a match-changing 94-run stand for the fourth wicket. Shahidi shifted gears with ease after largely remaining patient in his unbeaten and career-best knock which came off 118 balls. He was bowled off a no ball when he was on 76 in the penultimate over. Five of his seven boundaries came during the last 14 balls of the Afghan innings. Asghar had joined left-handed Shahidi at the crease after left-arm spinner Mohammad Nawaz (3/57) removed the top three Afghan batsmen, Mohammad Shahzad (20), Ihsanullah (10) and Rahmat Shah (36). In his 67-run knock, Asghar showed both aggression and patience and Shahidi was determined, holding one end tight. Asghar chose right deliveries to go for big shots, hitting five sixes and two fours. Shahidi and Asghar were tested by the Pakistan pace duo of Hasan Ali and Usman Khan but they refused to be intimidated by the raw pace. They were sensible in defending and leaving the balls which moved after pitching outside off stump. They kept the scoreboard ticking with pushing and nudging the ball around. Breakthrough not coming, Pakistan captain Sarfraz handed the ball back to Nawaz but Asghar creamed off 11 runs from his over, hitting a four and six, to end the long boundary drought. Both the batsmen completed their half-centuries in the 40th over, bowled by young left-arm pacer Shaheen Afridi. With few overs left, Asghar started hitting each everything thrown at him and was bowled by Afridi after being dropped by Haris Sohail in the 42nd over.

Asia Cup 2018: Pakistan beat Afghanistan in last over finish

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