Indian opening batsmen's misery against left-arm bowlers continued during Asia Cup 2023 match against Pakistan with Shaheen Shah Afridi wreaking havoc. Afridi took the wickets of India skipper Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to leave India two down for 27 inside seven overs.

The first wicket for India to fall was Rohit who was clean bowled through his defence. Shaheen had bowled previous two balls outside off to Rohit but brought the final ball of innings' fifth over into the batsman, uprooting Rohit's stumps. The India skipper scored only 11 off 22 balls before going back to pavillion.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-irfan-pathan-recalls-javed-miandads-found-on-every-street-comment-ahead-of-india-pakistan-clash-631751">Irfan Pathan recalls Javed Miandad's 'found on every street' comment ahead of India-Pakistan clash</a>

In his next over, Afridi took out India's star batsman Virat Kohli who tried to play the ball towards third man for a single but the ball took an inside edge and hit the stumps, sending Pak fans in frenzy. Kohli could score only seven off four balls before getting out. Have a look at the wickets here:

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SHAHEEN YOU BEAUTY 
Inject this in my veins. This is Pak vs Ind 🥵🥵<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ShaheenShahAfridi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ShaheenShahAfridi</a> I <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvPAK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvPAK</a> I <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AsiaCup2023?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AsiaCup2023</a> I <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ShaheenAfridi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ShaheenAfridi</a> <a href="https://t.co/bhUEGzzxhi">pic.twitter.com/bhUEGzzxhi</a>
— Ahmad (@ahmad_haii2) <a href="https://twitter.com/ahmad_haii2/status/1697928503596085304?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 2, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Haris Rauf then took over the reins and took the wickets of Shreyas Iyer and Shubman Gill to leave India four down for 66 in 15th over. While Iyer got out on nine runs playing a pull shot, Gill could just score 10 off 32 balls before a Rauf jaffa hit his&nbsp;timber&nbsp;through his defence.

Ishan Kishan and Hardik Pandya then got together and had added 36 runs for the fifth wicket as India crossed 100-run mark in 20 overs. At the time of writing this report, Kishan was 32 not out and Pandya was unbeaten on 16.&nbsp;

Earlier, India won the toss and skipper Rohit Sharma decided to bat first on a cloudy day in Kandy. Pak pace trio of Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf probed the Indian batters early on and even prized out three wickets before India reached 50.

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Indian opening batsmen's misery against left-arm bowlers continued during Asia Cup 2023 match against Pakistan with Shaheen Shah Afridi wreaking havoc. Afridi took the wickets of India skipper Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to leave India two down for 27 inside seven overs.

Indian opening batsmen's misery against left-arm bowlers continued during Asia Cup 2023 match against Pakistan with Shaheen Shah Afridi wreaking havoc. Afridi took the wickets of India skipper Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to leave India two down for 27 inside seven overs. The first wicket for India to fall was Rohit who was clean bowled through his defence. Shaheen had bowled previous two balls outside off to Rohit but brought the final ball of innings' fifth over into the batsman, uprooting Rohit's stumps. The India skipper scored only 11 off 22 balls before going back to pavillion. Also Read: Irfan Pathan recalls Javed Miandad's 'found on every street' comment ahead of India-Pakistan clash In his next over, Afridi took out India's star batsman Virat Kohli who tried to play the ball towards third man for a single but the ball took an inside edge and hit the stumps, sending Pak fans in frenzy. Kohli could score only seven off four balls before getting out. Have a look at the wickets here: SHAHEEN YOU BEAUTY Inject this in my veins. This is Pak vs Ind 🥵🥵#ShaheenShahAfridi I #INDvPAK I #AsiaCup2023 I #ShaheenAfridi pic.twitter.com/bhUEGzzxhi — Ahmad (@ahmad_haii2) September 2, 2023 × Haris Rauf then took over the reins and took the wickets of Shreyas Iyer and Shubman Gill to leave India four down for 66 in 15th over. While Iyer got out on nine runs playing a pull shot, Gill could just score 10 off 32 balls before a Rauf jaffa hit his timber through his defence. Ishan Kishan and Hardik Pandya then got together and had added 36 runs for the fifth wicket as India crossed 100-run mark in 20 overs. At the time of writing this report, Kishan was 32 not out and Pandya was unbeaten on 16. Earlier, India won the toss and skipper Rohit Sharma decided to bat first on a cloudy day in Kandy. Pak pace trio of Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf probed the Indian batters early on and even prized out three wickets before India reached 50. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Asia Cup: Pakistan pacer Shaheen Afridi stuns India with wickets of Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli - WATCH

India wicketkeeper-batsman Ishan Kishan played one of the most important innings of his ODI career, scoring 82 off 81 balls and helped India recover from 66/4. Kishan finally was dismissed in 38th over by Haris Rauf but by that time India had successfully recovered from the precarious position.

Ishan, while trying to hit one out of the park, skewed up the third ball of 38th over in the air which was caught by Pak skipper Babar Azam with ease. After the catch, however, Rauf got a bit exited and decided to give Ishan Kishan a send off. Have a look at the video here:

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LOVED IT <a href="https://t.co/MdqqK7aNKH">pic.twitter.com/MdqqK7aNKH</a>
— Rizwan stan. (@rizzyxshaddyy) <a href="https://twitter.com/rizzyxshaddyy/status/1697962966447222956?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 2, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Ishan, who came on the crease in 10th over and hit nine hours and two sixes during his innings, and added 138 runs for the fifth wicket with Hardik Pandya. By the time Kishan departed, India had crossed 200-run mark and were on course for 275+.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-shreyas-iyer-reveals-he-had-sleepless-night-ahead-of-india-vs-pakistan-match-631779">Shreyas Iyer reveals he had 'sleepless night' ahead of India vs Pakistan match</a>

Earlier, India won the toss and skipper Rohit Sharma decided to bat first on a cloudy day in Kandy, Sri Lanka. Pak pace trio of Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf probed the Indian batters early on and even prized out three wickets before India reached 50.

The first wicket for India to fall was Rohit who was clean bowled through his defence. Shaheen had bowled previous two balls outside off to Rohit but brought the final ball of innings' fifth over into the batsman which uprooted Rohit's stumps.

In his next over, Afridi took out India's star batsman Virat Kohli who tried to play the ball towards third man for a single but the ball took an inside edge and hit the stumps. Haris Rauf then took over the reins and took the wickets of Shreyas Iyer and Shubman Gill to leave India four down for 66 in 15th over.

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India wicketkeeper-batsman Ishan Kishan played one of the most important innings of his ODI career, scoring 82 off 81 balls and helped India recover from 66/4. Kishan finally was dismissed in 38th over by Haris Rauf but by that time India had successfully recovered from the precarious position.

India wicketkeeper-batsman Ishan Kishan played one of the most important innings of his ODI career, scoring 82 off 81 balls and helped India recover from 66/4. Kishan finally was dismissed in 38th over by Haris Rauf but by that time India had successfully recovered from the precarious position. Ishan, while trying to hit one out of the park, skewed up the third ball of 38th over in the air which was caught by Pak skipper Babar Azam with ease. After the catch, however, Rauf got a bit exited and decided to give Ishan Kishan a send off. Have a look at the video here: LOVED IT pic.twitter.com/MdqqK7aNKH — Rizwan stan. (@rizzyxshaddyy) September 2, 2023 × Ishan, who came on the crease in 10th over and hit nine hours and two sixes during his innings, and added 138 runs for the fifth wicket with Hardik Pandya. By the time Kishan departed, India had crossed 200-run mark and were on course for 275+. Also Read: Shreyas Iyer reveals he had 'sleepless night' ahead of India vs Pakistan match Earlier, India won the toss and skipper Rohit Sharma decided to bat first on a cloudy day in Kandy, Sri Lanka. Pak pace trio of Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf probed the Indian batters early on and even prized out three wickets before India reached 50. The first wicket for India to fall was Rohit who was clean bowled through his defence. Shaheen had bowled previous two balls outside off to Rohit but brought the final ball of innings' fifth over into the batsman which uprooted Rohit's stumps. In his next over, Afridi took out India's star batsman Virat Kohli who tried to play the ball towards third man for a single but the ball took an inside edge and hit the stumps. Haris Rauf then took over the reins and took the wickets of Shreyas Iyer and Shubman Gill to leave India four down for 66 in 15th over. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Asia Cup: Pak pacer Haris Rauf gives SEND OFF to Ishan Kishan after taking his wicket - WATCH

India are all set to begin&nbsp;their Asia Cup campaign against Pakistan on September 2 in Kandy, Sri Lanka and their Playing XI is going to be in the focus a lot. A lot of players are making their comebacks in ODI side including pace bowler Jasprit Bumrah, middle-order batsman Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul. While Rahul has already been ruled out of the first two games of the tournament as he recovers from a niggle, Iyer made it to the final XI.

Before these players were available, BCCI gave chances to a lot of players including Suryakumar Yadav, Sanju Samson, and Ishan Kishan to name few. While India won some game, it recently lost a limited-overs series against West Indies and received a lot of criticism.

Speaking on the same, former Pak skipper Ramiz Raja also said that India are tinkering a lot with their final XI unlike Pakistan who, according to Raza, have a rather settled side.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sri-lanka-cricket-suspends-all-domestic-tournaments-wit-immediate-effect-631700">Sri Lanka Cricket suspends all domestic tournaments with immediate effect</a>

“India might be a little rusty, they are still searching for the right combination. The one big reason for that is even in the World Cup year, they haven't succeeded in producing a settled unit. I'm actually shocked that they are tinkering unnecessarily with a winning combination, they experiment with batting order and the focus moves to something else,” said Ramiz on his official YouTube channel.

“If you ask anyone about Pakistan's playing XI, he will tell you without much of a thought. But if you ask someone about India's XI, there are still doubts. And this might benefit Pakistan,” added Raja.

Recently, India coach Rahul Dravid clarified on why there was a lot of 'experimenting,' saying that it <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-coach-rahul-dravid-answers-all-experimenting-questions-says-didnt-do-for-sake-of-it-630582">wasn't for the sake of it</a>. Dravid said players getting injured in space of two-three months forced them to give other players chances in the playing XI.

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India are all set to begin their Asia Cup campaign against Pakistan on September 2 in Kandy, Sri Lanka and their Playing XI is going to be in the focus a lot. A lot of players are making their comebacks in ODI side including pace bowler Jasprit Bumrah, middle-order batsman Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul.

India are all set to begin their Asia Cup campaign against Pakistan on September 2 in Kandy, Sri Lanka and their Playing XI is going to be in the focus a lot. A lot of players are making their comebacks in ODI side including pace bowler Jasprit Bumrah, middle-order batsman Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul. While Rahul has already been ruled out of the first two games of the tournament as he recovers from a niggle, Iyer made it to the final XI. Before these players were available, BCCI gave chances to a lot of players including Suryakumar Yadav, Sanju Samson, and Ishan Kishan to name few. While India won some game, it recently lost a limited-overs series against West Indies and received a lot of criticism. Speaking on the same, former Pak skipper Ramiz Raja also said that India are tinkering a lot with their final XI unlike Pakistan who, according to Raza, have a rather settled side. Also Read: Sri Lanka Cricket suspends all domestic tournaments with immediate effect “India might be a little rusty, they are still searching for the right combination. The one big reason for that is even in the World Cup year, they haven't succeeded in producing a settled unit. I'm actually shocked that they are tinkering unnecessarily with a winning combination, they experiment with batting order and the focus moves to something else,” said Ramiz on his official YouTube channel. “If you ask anyone about Pakistan's playing XI, he will tell you without much of a thought. But if you ask someone about India's XI, there are still doubts. And this might benefit Pakistan,” added Raja. Recently, India coach Rahul Dravid clarified on why there was a lot of 'experimenting,' saying that it wasn't for the sake of it. Dravid said players getting injured in space of two-three months forced them to give other players chances in the playing XI. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Asia Cup: Former skipper Ramiz Raja says India's doubts about Playing XI will benefit Pakistan

IND vs PAK Live Streaming: The most awaited match of the Asia cup 2023, India vs Pakistan,&nbsp;is scheduled for September 2, 2023. Fans are eagerly waiting for the clash between the two teams. The cricket tournament began on Wednesday, August 30 and is being jointly hosted by Sri Lanka and Pakistan.&nbsp;

Pakistan won the first match with a 234-run win&nbsp;over Nepal.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the men in blue are all set to kick off their campaign&nbsp;with their first match against Pakistan.

<h2>IND vs PAK: Live-streaming details</h2>

<h2>Where to watch Asia Cup 2023, India vs Pakistan live in India</h2>

The broadcasting rights for IND vs PAK Asia Cup 2023 have been&nbsp;purchased by Star Sports for television.&nbsp; 
The match shall be available on the following channels:&nbsp; 
Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD, Star Sports 1 Hindi, Star Sports 1 Hindi HD, Star Sports 1 Tamil SD + HD, Star Sports 1 Telugu SD+HD, Star Sports 1 Kannada

<h2>Where to live stream Asia Cup 2023, India vs Pakistan for free</h2>

The game will be available for free on the Disney+ Hotstar platform.&nbsp;

Here is the list of live streaming and broadcasting details in other countries:&nbsp; 
Pakistan: PTV Sports and Ten Sports&nbsp; 
Bangladesh: Gazi TV 
United Kingdom: TNT Sports app 
Australia: Fox Sports and FOXTel app 
South Africa: SuperSport

<h2>When will the India vs Pakistan match be played?&nbsp;Date</h2>

India vs Pakistan match will be held on September 02, 2023.&nbsp;

<h2>When to watch India&nbsp;vs Pakistan?&nbsp;Time</h2>

The match between India and Pakistan will kick off at 3:00 pm IST.

<h2>Where will the India&nbsp;vs Pakistan&nbsp;ODI be played? Venue</h2>

The match will be played at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Sri Lanka

Here’s &nbsp;everything you need to know about India vs Pakistan Asia Cup 2023 
Date: September 2, 2023 
Time: 3;00 pm IST 
Venue:&nbsp;Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Sri Lanka 
Live Stream and Broadcast: Star Sports and Hotstar

<h2>India vs Pakistan Full Squads</h2>

India squad:&nbsp;

Rohit Sharma (c), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Shubman Gill, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya (vc), Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Kuldeep Yadav, Prasidh Krishna, Sanju Samson (travelling reserve)

Pakistan squad:&nbsp;

Babar Azam (c), Abdullah Shafique, Fakhar Zaman, Imam-ul-Haq, Salman Ali Agha, Iftikhar Ahmed, Mohammad Rizwan, Mohammad Haris, Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Usama Mir, Faheem Ashraf, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Afridi, Saud Shakeel, Tayyab Tahir (travelling reserve) 
&nbsp;

IND vs PAK Live Streaming: The most awaited match of the Asia cup 2023, India vs Pakistan, is scheduled for September 2, 2023. Fans are eagerly waiting for the clash between the two teams.

IND vs PAK Live Streaming: The most awaited match of the Asia cup 2023, India vs Pakistan, is scheduled for September 2, 2023. Fans are eagerly waiting for the clash between the two teams. The cricket tournament began on Wednesday, August 30 and is being jointly hosted by Sri Lanka and Pakistan. Pakistan won the first match with a 234-run win over Nepal. Meanwhile, the men in blue are all set to kick off their campaign with their first match against Pakistan. IND vs PAK: Live-streaming details Where to watch Asia Cup 2023, India vs Pakistan live in India The broadcasting rights for IND vs PAK Asia Cup 2023 have been purchased by Star Sports for television. The match shall be available on the following channels: Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD, Star Sports 1 Hindi, Star Sports 1 Hindi HD, Star Sports 1 Tamil SD + HD, Star Sports 1 Telugu SD+HD, Star Sports 1 Kannada Where to live stream Asia Cup 2023, India vs Pakistan for free The game will be available for free on the Disney+ Hotstar platform. Here is the list of live streaming and broadcasting details in other countries: Pakistan: PTV Sports and Ten Sports Bangladesh: Gazi TV United Kingdom: TNT Sports app Australia: Fox Sports and FOXTel app South Africa: SuperSport When will the India vs Pakistan match be played? Date India vs Pakistan match will be held on September 02, 2023. When to watch India vs Pakistan? Time The match between India and Pakistan will kick off at 3:00 pm IST. Where will the India vs Pakistan ODI be played? Venue The match will be played at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Sri Lanka Here’s everything you need to know about India vs Pakistan Asia Cup 2023 Date: September 2, 2023 Time: 3;00 pm IST Venue: Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Sri Lanka Live Stream and Broadcast: Star Sports and Hotstar India vs Pakistan Full Squads India squad: Rohit Sharma (c), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Shubman Gill, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya (vc), Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Kuldeep Yadav, Prasidh Krishna, Sanju Samson (travelling reserve) Pakistan squad: Babar Azam (c), Abdullah Shafique, Fakhar Zaman, Imam-ul-Haq, Salman Ali Agha, Iftikhar Ahmed, Mohammad Rizwan, Mohammad Haris, Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Usama Mir, Faheem Ashraf, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Afridi, Saud Shakeel, Tayyab Tahir (travelling reserve)

IND vs PAK live Streaming: How to watch Asia cup 2023 India vs Pakistan Live stream on your TV, Mobile, Laptop

The Clash of the Titans is here. India faces Pakistan in the Asia Cup. Both teams will be looking to fine-tune their squads ahead of the World Cup in India later this year. Who will win the marquee clash?

India vs Pak: India's XI for the clash against Pakistan

IND vs PAK Weather Live update: The most awaited match of Asia Cup 2023, India vs Pakistan is scheduled for today (September 02, 2023). IND vs PAK Asia Cup 2023, will be the first 50-over match after their clash in the 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup.&nbsp;

Both the teams are geared up for the clash and fans are eagerly waiting for the match to start. However, the forthcoming danger of rain could let everyone down and there could be a slight delay in the match.&nbsp;

<h2>Weather&nbsp;forecast for IND vs PAK Asia Cup 2023:</h2>

According to AccuWeather, the rain showers in Kandy would begin at 12:pm and it is anticipated to stop by 3:pm. The IND vs PAK Asia Cup 2023 is scheduled to start at 3:pm IST. The rain is expected to stop during the first half of the match but forecast states that it will come back after the sunset.&nbsp;

With 99% of cloud cover and high humidity, AccuWeather forecasts&nbsp;heavy rainfall to start from 7:pm this evening and it&nbsp;will get heavier in the night, between 9:pm and 11:pm.&nbsp;

<h2>Here’s everything you need to know about India vs Pakistan Asia Cup 2023</h2>

The men in green won the first match with a 234-run win over Nepal and Team India is all set to play their first match in Asia Cup 2023 series.&nbsp;

<h2>When will the India vs Pakistan match be played? Date</h2>

India vs Pakistan match will be held on September 02, 2023.&nbsp;

<h2>When to watch India vs Pakistan? Time</h2>

The match between India and Pakistan will kick off at 3:00 pm IST.

<h2>Where will the India vs Pakistan ODI be played? Venue</h2>

The match will be played at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Sri Lanka

<h2>India vs Pakistan Full Squads</h2>

India squad:&nbsp;

Rohit Sharma (c), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Shubman Gill, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya (vc), Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Kuldeep Yadav, Prasidh Krishna, Sanju Samson (travelling reserve)

Pakistan squad:&nbsp;

Babar Azam (c), Abdullah Shafique, Fakhar Zaman, Imam-ul-Haq, Salman Ali Agha, Iftikhar Ahmed, Mohammad Rizwan, Mohammad Haris, Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Usama Mir, Faheem Ashraf, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Afridi, Saud Shakeel, Tayyab Tahir (travelling reserve)

With inputs from agencies

IND vs PAK Weather Live update: The most awaited match of Asia Cup 2023, India vs Pakistan is scheduled for today (September 02, 2023). IND vs PAK Asia Cup 2023, will be the first 50-over match after their clash in the 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup.

IND vs PAK Weather Live update: The most awaited match of Asia Cup 2023, India vs Pakistan is scheduled for today (September 02, 2023). IND vs PAK Asia Cup 2023, will be the first 50-over match after their clash in the 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup. Both the teams are geared up for the clash and fans are eagerly waiting for the match to start. However, the forthcoming danger of rain could let everyone down and there could be a slight delay in the match. Weather forecast for IND vs PAK Asia Cup 2023: According to AccuWeather, the rain showers in Kandy would begin at 12:pm and it is anticipated to stop by 3:pm. The IND vs PAK Asia Cup 2023 is scheduled to start at 3:pm IST. The rain is expected to stop during the first half of the match but forecast states that it will come back after the sunset. With 99% of cloud cover and high humidity, AccuWeather forecasts heavy rainfall to start from 7:pm this evening and it will get heavier in the night, between 9:pm and 11:pm. Here’s everything you need to know about India vs Pakistan Asia Cup 2023 The men in green won the first match with a 234-run win over Nepal and Team India is all set to play their first match in Asia Cup 2023 series. When will the India vs Pakistan match be played? Date India vs Pakistan match will be held on September 02, 2023. When to watch India vs Pakistan? Time The match between India and Pakistan will kick off at 3:00 pm IST. Where will the India vs Pakistan ODI be played? Venue The match will be played at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Sri Lanka India vs Pakistan Full Squads India squad: Rohit Sharma (c), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Shubman Gill, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya (vc), Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Kuldeep Yadav, Prasidh Krishna, Sanju Samson (travelling reserve) Pakistan squad: Babar Azam (c), Abdullah Shafique, Fakhar Zaman, Imam-ul-Haq, Salman Ali Agha, Iftikhar Ahmed, Mohammad Rizwan, Mohammad Haris, Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Usama Mir, Faheem Ashraf, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Afridi, Saud Shakeel, Tayyab Tahir (travelling reserve) With inputs from agencies

IND vs PAK Weather Live update: Check Kandy Weather forecast Rain likely to affect India vs Pakistan match

Pakistan have made the first move before the high-voltage clash against India as they announced their Playing XI on Friday, September 1. The two arch-rivals set to meet on Saturday will be the 14th time they meet in the continental event with India leading the head-to-head 7-5. Babar Azam’s men have gone unchanged from their opening contest against Nepal where they won by 238 runs in Multan. They will now look to wrap up the Super Four qualification on Saturday with a win against India in Pallekele.

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Pakistan to field same playing XI tomorrow 🇵🇰<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PAKvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PAKvIND</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AsiaCup2023?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AsiaCup2023</a> <a href="https://t.co/qe18Ad6pF4">pic.twitter.com/qe18Ad6pF4</a>
— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheRealPCB/status/1697611637375824298?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 1, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Pakistan go unchanged</h2>

The co-hosts of the Asia Cup have named an unchanged eleven against India as skipper Babar tries to go with the winning combination against Nepal. Imam-ul-Haq will open the batting alongside Fakhar Zaman with Babar expected to come at his usual No.3. The skipper smashed 151 runs against Nepal and was seen in great touch while middle-order batter Iftikhar Ahmed also attracted attention with his 109-run knock.

He became the second-oldest Pakistan to player to score an ODI double hundred and will now look to nail down a place in the World Cup squad.

The pace attack will led by the always impressive Shaheen Shah Afridi who will share the new ball with Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf. Afridi will be crucial to Pakistan’s success as he brings tons of experience. Nawaz will be the other key member of the bowling attack where he will spin the ball with Shadab Khan.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/transfer-deadline-day-live-football-transfer-window-premier-league-bundesliga-manchester-city-chelsea-631180">Transfer Deadline Day Live: Chelsea complete Cole Palmer deal, João Palhinha to Bayern, Højbjerg to Fulham</a>

<h2>First of many clashes?</h2>

This could be the first of the multiple meetings between the sides in the Asia Cup 2023 as they could meet in the Super Four stage. Even if India lose on Saturday, a win for them against Nepal on Monday will guarantee them a passage in the Super Four. This could mean India and Pakistan could meet again on Sunday, September 10.&nbsp; The two nations met twice in a similar format last year when the Asia Cup was played in the T20 regulations.

In the opposition camp, India will be without KL Rahul as he recovers from injury prompting Ishan Kishan’s selection in the Playing XI. He could open the innings with skipper Rohit Sharma or could play at No.5.

<h2>Pakistan playing XI for India match</h2>

Babar Azam (C), Shadab Khan (vc), Imam-ul-Haq, Fakhar Zaman, Salman Ali Agha, Iftikhar Ahmed, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Mohammad Nawaz, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf

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Pakistan have made the first move before the high-voltage clash against India as they announced their Playing XI on Friday, September 1. The two arch-rivals set to meet on Saturday will be the 14th time they meet in the continental event with India leading the head-to-head 7-5.

Pakistan have made the first move before the high-voltage clash against India as they announced their Playing XI on Friday, September 1. The two arch-rivals set to meet on Saturday will be the 14th time they meet in the continental event with India leading the head-to-head 7-5. Babar Azam’s men have gone unchanged from their opening contest against Nepal where they won by 238 runs in Multan. They will now look to wrap up the Super Four qualification on Saturday with a win against India in Pallekele. Pakistan to field same playing XI tomorrow 🇵🇰#PAKvIND | #AsiaCup2023 pic.twitter.com/qe18Ad6pF4 — Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) September 1, 2023 × Pakistan go unchanged The co-hosts of the Asia Cup have named an unchanged eleven against India as skipper Babar tries to go with the winning combination against Nepal. Imam-ul-Haq will open the batting alongside Fakhar Zaman with Babar expected to come at his usual No.3. The skipper smashed 151 runs against Nepal and was seen in great touch while middle-order batter Iftikhar Ahmed also attracted attention with his 109-run knock. He became the second-oldest Pakistan to player to score an ODI double hundred and will now look to nail down a place in the World Cup squad. The pace attack will led by the always impressive Shaheen Shah Afridi who will share the new ball with Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf. Afridi will be crucial to Pakistan’s success as he brings tons of experience. Nawaz will be the other key member of the bowling attack where he will spin the ball with Shadab Khan. ALSO READ | Transfer Deadline Day Live: Chelsea complete Cole Palmer deal, João Palhinha to Bayern, Højbjerg to Fulham First of many clashes? This could be the first of the multiple meetings between the sides in the Asia Cup 2023 as they could meet in the Super Four stage. Even if India lose on Saturday, a win for them against Nepal on Monday will guarantee them a passage in the Super Four. This could mean India and Pakistan could meet again on Sunday, September 10. The two nations met twice in a similar format last year when the Asia Cup was played in the T20 regulations. In the opposition camp, India will be without KL Rahul as he recovers from injury prompting Ishan Kishan’s selection in the Playing XI. He could open the innings with skipper Rohit Sharma or could play at No.5. Pakistan playing XI for India match Babar Azam (C), Shadab Khan (vc), Imam-ul-Haq, Fakhar Zaman, Salman Ali Agha, Iftikhar Ahmed, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Mohammad Nawaz, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Asia Cup 2023: Babar Azam's Pakistan make first move before high-voltage clash, announce Playing XI vs India

India and Pakistan will face-off in Group A clash of the Asia Cup on Saturday (September 02) in Kandy. The third game of the ongoing competition, being jointly held in Pakistan and Sri Lanka, is eagerly awaited as it will see the resumption of the Indo-Pak rivalry after their epic face-off in last year's 2022 T20 World Cup, where the Men in Blue won a humdinger of a clash on the last ball.

With the Asia Cup being held in the 50-over format, as a dress rehearsal for next month's&nbsp;ODI World Cup in India, Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. will know they have their task cut-out to start with a win over No. 1 ranked side Pakistan. Babar Azam-led Men in Green's recent 3-0 whitewash over Afghanistan propelled them to the top spot and they also started the Asia Cup with a bang, thrashing Nepal by 238 runs in the curtain raise at Multan on Wednesday (August 30).

Talking to the reporters in the pre-match presser, Indian captain Rohit acknowledged Pakistan's white-ball success and said on Friday (September 01), "Pakistan have played really well in recent times in T20Is and ODIs. They worked really hard to be No.1, it'll be a good challenge for us tomorrow."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-hayden-warns-rohit-sharma-ahead-of-shaheen-afridi-battle-picks-winner-of-india-pakistan-tie-631224">Asia Cup: Hayden warns Rohit Sharma ahead of Shaheen Afridi battle, picks winner of India-Pakistan tie</a>

There is a strong possibility of India to face Pakistan as many as three times in this Asia Cup. They are likely to meet in the Super Four, on September 10 in Colombo, and can also lock horns in the tournament finale, to be held on September 17 in Colombo.&nbsp;

It is to be noted that India and Pakistan have never met in the Asia Cup final. Will history rewrite itself this time around? Only time will tell...

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India and Pakistan will face-off in Group A clash of the Asia Cup on Saturday (September 02) in Kandy. The third game of the ongoing competition, being jointly held in Pakistan and Sri Lanka, is eagerly awaited as it will see the resumption of the Indo-Pak rivalry after their epic face-off in last year's 2022 T20 World Cup, where the Men in Blue won a humdinger of a clash on the last ball.

India and Pakistan will face-off in Group A clash of the Asia Cup on Saturday (September 02) in Kandy. The third game of the ongoing competition, being jointly held in Pakistan and Sri Lanka, is eagerly awaited as it will see the resumption of the Indo-Pak rivalry after their epic face-off in last year's 2022 T20 World Cup, where the Men in Blue won a humdinger of a clash on the last ball. With the Asia Cup being held in the 50-over format, as a dress rehearsal for next month's ODI World Cup in India, Rohit Sharma & Co. will know they have their task cut-out to start with a win over No. 1 ranked side Pakistan. Babar Azam-led Men in Green's recent 3-0 whitewash over Afghanistan propelled them to the top spot and they also started the Asia Cup with a bang, thrashing Nepal by 238 runs in the curtain raise at Multan on Wednesday (August 30). Talking to the reporters in the pre-match presser, Indian captain Rohit acknowledged Pakistan's white-ball success and said on Friday (September 01), "Pakistan have played really well in recent times in T20Is and ODIs. They worked really hard to be No.1, it'll be a good challenge for us tomorrow." Also read: Asia Cup: Hayden warns Rohit Sharma ahead of Shaheen Afridi battle, picks winner of India-Pakistan tie There is a strong possibility of India to face Pakistan as many as three times in this Asia Cup. They are likely to meet in the Super Four, on September 10 in Colombo, and can also lock horns in the tournament finale, to be held on September 17 in Colombo. It is to be noted that India and Pakistan have never met in the Asia Cup final. Will history rewrite itself this time around? Only time will tell... WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Asia Cup: India captain Rohit Sharma heaps praise on No. 1 ODI side Pakistan ahead of mega battle in Kandy

All eyes are now on the India versus Pakistan clash in what will be the third game of the ongoing Asia Cup 2023 edition. The match will take place in Kandy and is expected to be an enthralling battle between the two arch-rivals. Babar Azam-led Men in Green will be keen to make it two wins in a row, after thrashing Nepal in the tournament-opener, whereas Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. will aim for a winning start.

Ahead of the face-off, many former cricketers have shared their take on the mother-of-all-clashes. Former Australian opener Matthew Hayden has also joined the bandwagon and advised Indian captain Rohit to start cautiously against Shaheen Afridi -- who got the better of him in the 2021 T20 World Cup -- and also picked the winner of the clash.

On Star Sports' Game Plan, Hayden said, "India is playing against Pakistan’s pace trio. Well, I can tell you this is one of the spiciest competitions on the planet. We’ve got Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, and Naseem. Three very different types of bowlers and unique bowlers which require unique plans from Team India. Firstly, the conditions here in Kandy tend to have quite a lot of bounce, so you’ve got to watch that out, especially Haris Rauf. He’ll want to really hustle in and hit the top of off stump."

"You’ve got to be conservative against Shaheen Afridi. Remember back to the World Cup more recently; Shaheen was able to take early wickets. We’ll never forget that ball that he bowled to captain Rohit Sharma, so a little bit of caution against Shaheen Afridi. If it's swinging, look to play out those first three overs,” he advised.

The 51-year-old further opined, "I think with Naseem, even though he will shape the ball, Pakistan can be in a position to advance forward with India managing to take them out of play by aggressive plays against someone like Naseem. Put him under pressure, feel like you are in front of the game."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-acc-pcb-blasted-by-ex-cricketers-and-fans-after-pakistans-name-goes-missing-from-team-jerseys-631197">Asia Cup: ACC, PCB blasted by ex-cricketers and fans after Pakistan's name goes missing from team jerseys</a>

The Aussie named the winner of the mega contest, citing 'a deeper and classier batting line-up' to aid the victorious side. "All in all, though, I think it’s going to be Team India that’s going to win. I think they’ve got a deeper, classier batting lineup, and I think they’ve got form on the board as well,” said Hayden.

There are high chances of India and Pakistan locking horns thrice overall in this edition of the Asia Cup, in the Super Four and also in the final. The summit clash will take place on September 17 in Colombo. It is to be noted that both the teams have never met in the tournament finale. However, history might be rewritten this time around.&nbsp; 
 
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All eyes are now on the India versus Pakistan clash in what will be the third game of the ongoing Asia Cup 2023 edition. The match will take place in Kandy and is expected to be an enthralling battle between the two arch-rivals.

All eyes are now on the India versus Pakistan clash in what will be the third game of the ongoing Asia Cup 2023 edition. The match will take place in Kandy and is expected to be an enthralling battle between the two arch-rivals. Babar Azam-led Men in Green will be keen to make it two wins in a row, after thrashing Nepal in the tournament-opener, whereas Rohit Sharma & Co. will aim for a winning start. Ahead of the face-off, many former cricketers have shared their take on the mother-of-all-clashes. Former Australian opener Matthew Hayden has also joined the bandwagon and advised Indian captain Rohit to start cautiously against Shaheen Afridi -- who got the better of him in the 2021 T20 World Cup -- and also picked the winner of the clash. On Star Sports' Game Plan, Hayden said, "India is playing against Pakistan’s pace trio. Well, I can tell you this is one of the spiciest competitions on the planet. We’ve got Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, and Naseem. Three very different types of bowlers and unique bowlers which require unique plans from Team India. Firstly, the conditions here in Kandy tend to have quite a lot of bounce, so you’ve got to watch that out, especially Haris Rauf. He’ll want to really hustle in and hit the top of off stump." "You’ve got to be conservative against Shaheen Afridi. Remember back to the World Cup more recently; Shaheen was able to take early wickets. We’ll never forget that ball that he bowled to captain Rohit Sharma, so a little bit of caution against Shaheen Afridi. If it's swinging, look to play out those first three overs,” he advised. The 51-year-old further opined, "I think with Naseem, even though he will shape the ball, Pakistan can be in a position to advance forward with India managing to take them out of play by aggressive plays against someone like Naseem. Put him under pressure, feel like you are in front of the game." Also read: Asia Cup: ACC, PCB blasted by ex-cricketers and fans after Pakistan's name goes missing from team jerseys The Aussie named the winner of the mega contest, citing 'a deeper and classier batting line-up' to aid the victorious side. "All in all, though, I think it’s going to be Team India that’s going to win. I think they’ve got a deeper, classier batting lineup, and I think they’ve got form on the board as well,” said Hayden. There are high chances of India and Pakistan locking horns thrice overall in this edition of the Asia Cup, in the Super Four and also in the final. The summit clash will take place on September 17 in Colombo. It is to be noted that both the teams have never met in the tournament finale. However, history might be rewritten this time around. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Asia Cup: Hayden warns Rohit Sharma ahead of Shaheen Afridi battle, picks winner of India-Pakistan tie

India and Pakistan are set to lock horns in match three of the Asia Cup 2023 edition, on Saturday (September 02) in Kandy. The two teams will meet each other for the first time since their memorable face-off in last year's T20 World Cup in Australia, where the Men in Blue won by four wickets on the last ball. Ahead of the much-awaited game, former&nbsp;captain and Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Ramiz Raja named a star batter who should be rested for the India game.

Pakistan started their campaign with a thumping win over Nepal&nbsp;in the tournament opener in Multan on Wednesday (August 30). Riding on Babar Azam's 151 and Iftikhar Ahmed's 109, the Men in Green posted a mammoth 342 for 6 and dismissed Nepal for 104. While everything clicked for the co-hosts, they were off to a poor start at 25 for 2 before Babar&nbsp;and Iftikhar came to the team's rescue.

Despite the early hiccups, Pakistan were at their dominant best. However, Ramiz feels the No. 1 ODI side should rest opener Fakhar Zaman for the India tie. Zaman&nbsp;has scores of 2, 30, 27 and 14 in his last four innings, respectively. Thus, the ex-PCB chief feels 'Zaman is the big problem'.

Ramiz said on his official YouTube channel. "The big problem is Fakhar Zaman. He is an unorthodox hitter, but when someone like that gets out of form, it takes some time to find solutions on the drawing board. He's a bottom-handed player, plays on the leg-side, somehow he adjusts with that and scores."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/only-he-couldve-done-that-shadab-recalls-kohlis-t20-wc-masterclass-before-india-vs-pakistan-asia-cup-tie-631120">'Only he could've done that': Shadab recalls Kohli's T20 WC masterclass before India vs Pakistan Asia Cup tie</a>

He added, “He played three matches against Afghanistan and couldn't make a mark as well. His body language is suffering, and Pakistan need an in-form opener. If Imam also gets dismissed cheaply, it creates pressure. Pakistan need to assess Fakhar. I believe they should rest him, give him some time out. Sidelining him is better for him as well as the Pakistan side. He's a good player, Pakistan has given him chances. But against India, with the form that he has, that chance is not worth being taken.”

It is to be noted that Zaman hasn't made it big in the last few innings but still has been among runs in the recent past. In the last 15 innings, he has four tons and a half-century under his belt. It will be interesting to see if Pakistan tinker with their winning combination and 'rest' Zaman, whose maiden ODI century came against India in the 2017 Champions Trophy final.

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India and Pakistan are set to lock horns in match three of the Asia Cup 2023 edition, on Saturday (September 02) in Kandy. The two teams will meet each other for the first time since their memorable face-off in last year's T20 World Cup in Australia, where the Men in Blue won by four wickets on the last ball.

India and Pakistan are set to lock horns in match three of the Asia Cup 2023 edition, on Saturday (September 02) in Kandy. The two teams will meet each other for the first time since their memorable face-off in last year's T20 World Cup in Australia, where the Men in Blue won by four wickets on the last ball. Ahead of the much-awaited game, former captain and Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Ramiz Raja named a star batter who should be rested for the India game. Pakistan started their campaign with a thumping win over Nepal in the tournament opener in Multan on Wednesday (August 30). Riding on Babar Azam's 151 and Iftikhar Ahmed's 109, the Men in Green posted a mammoth 342 for 6 and dismissed Nepal for 104. While everything clicked for the co-hosts, they were off to a poor start at 25 for 2 before Babar and Iftikhar came to the team's rescue. Despite the early hiccups, Pakistan were at their dominant best. However, Ramiz feels the No. 1 ODI side should rest opener Fakhar Zaman for the India tie. Zaman has scores of 2, 30, 27 and 14 in his last four innings, respectively. Thus, the ex-PCB chief feels 'Zaman is the big problem'. Ramiz said on his official YouTube channel. "The big problem is Fakhar Zaman. He is an unorthodox hitter, but when someone like that gets out of form, it takes some time to find solutions on the drawing board. He's a bottom-handed player, plays on the leg-side, somehow he adjusts with that and scores." Also read: 'Only he could've done that': Shadab recalls Kohli's T20 WC masterclass before India vs Pakistan Asia Cup tie He added, “He played three matches against Afghanistan and couldn't make a mark as well. His body language is suffering, and Pakistan need an in-form opener. If Imam also gets dismissed cheaply, it creates pressure. Pakistan need to assess Fakhar. I believe they should rest him, give him some time out. Sidelining him is better for him as well as the Pakistan side. He's a good player, Pakistan has given him chances. But against India, with the form that he has, that chance is not worth being taken.” It is to be noted that Zaman hasn't made it big in the last few innings but still has been among runs in the recent past. In the last 15 innings, he has four tons and a half-century under his belt. It will be interesting to see if Pakistan tinker with their winning combination and 'rest' Zaman, whose maiden ODI century came against India in the 2017 Champions Trophy final. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Asia Cup: 'His body language is...': Ramiz Raja feels THIS Pakistan star should be 'rested' for India tie

Sri Lanka entered the Asia Cup as defending champions, but the last edition in the UAE was a T20I tournament. The 50-over format is a completely different ball game and the Lankans have their task cut out with a full-blown injury crisis. WION Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo sets up Sri Lanka's campaign ahead of their opener against Bangladesh.

Injury-hit Lankans begin Asia Cup campaign

The cricketing world cannot wait for the blockbuster game between two arch-rivals, India and Pakistan, to get underway in Pallekele, Sri Lanka, in the ongoing Asia Cup 2023 on Saturday, September 2. However, there is a threat that looms over this blockbuster clash. The latest reports suggest thunderstorms could play a spoilsport during the marquee clash.

Considering it’s been raining in Kandy for the past two days and the forecast on D-day - September 2, predicts a 90% rain possibility, the India vs. Pakistan game could get washed out.

Since these Asian giants face each other only in ICC-related tournaments and the Asia Cup, a possible washout here would be a disaster for cricket fans from all over.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-csk-star-ambati-rayudu-cuts-short-cpl-stint-due-to-personal-reasons-630816">Former CSK star Ambati Rayudu cuts short CPL stint due to personal reasons</a>

Meanwhile, in Sri Lanka, especially in Pallekele, Kandy, the board avoids scheduling matches during the August-September window because of monsoon; however, with the BCCI refusing to travel&nbsp;to Pakistan for the Asia Cup 2023, Sri Lanka got roped in as an additional host at the last moment. It meant selected grounds got slated to host several games during the tournament, with India-Pakistan penned for September 2 in Pallekele.

Looking into history, Pallekele, in the past, has hosted 33 ODIs, with only three matches played during the monsoon season.

While Pakistan will host only four matches, Sri Lanka will host the remaining nine games, including all India matches and the final on September 17.

<h2>Pakistan begin Asia Cup in dominant fashion</h2>

With all eyes on the India-Pakistan match on September 2, the Men in Green began their six-team tournament campaign on a high by beating minnows Nepal by a whopping 238 runs. Captain Babar Azam and middle-order batter Iftikhar Ahmed scored respective centuries.

Shadab Khan returned with four scalps, while seamers Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf picked two wickets each.

Pakistan, India and Nepal were drawn in Group A.

<h3>India look to settle middle-order debate ahead of marquee clash</h3>

The Indian Cricket Team has an issue at hand – the middle-order issue, which further got into the limelight after returning makeshift keeper-batter KL Rahul got ruled out of the first two clashes, meaning he will miss India’s opening game of Asia Cup 2023 against Pakistan.

In his absence, Ishan Kishan is sure to play in the XI, as Sanju Samson, another keeper-batter, is part of the travelling reserves and hasn’t been added to the main squad yet.

With Kishan getting roped in, it would be interesting to see if India plays him in the top or middle-order, or if he will be used as a floater, depending on the match situation. 
 
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The cricketing world cannot wait for the blockbuster game between two arch-rivals, India and Pakistan, to get underway in Pallekele, Sri Lanka, in the ongoing Asia Cup 2023 on Saturday, September 2.

The cricketing world cannot wait for the blockbuster game between two arch-rivals, India and Pakistan, to get underway in Pallekele, Sri Lanka, in the ongoing Asia Cup 2023 on Saturday, September 2. However, there is a threat that looms over this blockbuster clash. The latest reports suggest thunderstorms could play a spoilsport during the marquee clash. Considering it’s been raining in Kandy for the past two days and the forecast on D-day - September 2, predicts a 90% rain possibility, the India vs. Pakistan game could get washed out. Since these Asian giants face each other only in ICC-related tournaments and the Asia Cup, a possible washout here would be a disaster for cricket fans from all over. ALSO READ: Former CSK star Ambati Rayudu cuts short CPL stint due to personal reasons Meanwhile, in Sri Lanka, especially in Pallekele, Kandy, the board avoids scheduling matches during the August-September window because of monsoon; however, with the BCCI refusing to travel to Pakistan for the Asia Cup 2023, Sri Lanka got roped in as an additional host at the last moment. It meant selected grounds got slated to host several games during the tournament, with India-Pakistan penned for September 2 in Pallekele. Looking into history, Pallekele, in the past, has hosted 33 ODIs, with only three matches played during the monsoon season. While Pakistan will host only four matches, Sri Lanka will host the remaining nine games, including all India matches and the final on September 17. Pakistan begin Asia Cup in dominant fashion With all eyes on the India-Pakistan match on September 2, the Men in Green began their six-team tournament campaign on a high by beating minnows Nepal by a whopping 238 runs. Captain Babar Azam and middle-order batter Iftikhar Ahmed scored respective centuries. Shadab Khan returned with four scalps, while seamers Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf picked two wickets each. Pakistan, India and Nepal were drawn in Group A. India look to settle middle-order debate ahead of marquee clash The Indian Cricket Team has an issue at hand – the middle-order issue, which further got into the limelight after returning makeshift keeper-batter KL Rahul got ruled out of the first two clashes, meaning he will miss India’s opening game of Asia Cup 2023 against Pakistan. In his absence, Ishan Kishan is sure to play in the XI, as Sanju Samson, another keeper-batter, is part of the travelling reserves and hasn’t been added to the main squad yet. With Kishan getting roped in, it would be interesting to see if India plays him in the top or middle-order, or if he will be used as a floater, depending on the match situation. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Asia Cup 2023: Will rain play spoilsport in India vs Pakistan game in Pallekele? Check latest update

Bangladesh have been dealt a major blow in the build-up to the Asia Cup 2023 as star batter and key member of the squad Litton Das has been ruled out of the tournament with fever. The news was confirmed on Wednesday, August 30 morning as the Chairman of the National Selection Panel, Minhajul Abedin informed of the situation. Wicketkeeper-batter Anamul Haque Bijoy has been roped in as a replacement for Das and will travel with the squad.

<h2>Bangladesh to miss Das</h2>

"He [Anamul] has been in the runs in domestic cricket and we have continued to monitor him in the Bangladesh Tigers program. He was always in our consideration," Minhajul Abedin, Chairman of the national selection panel, said.

"Due to Litton's unavailability, we needed a top-order batter who could keep wicket and Anamul got the nod."

The blow will be huge for Bangladesh considering Das was their highest scorer in ODIs since 2022 with 878 runs in 25 innings at an average of 41.80. The string of good form includes seven fifties and a century with a best of 136 against Afghanistan in February last year.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-preview-world-no1-pakistan-eye-momentum-before-world-cup-but-can-india-sl-put-spanner-in-the-work-630323">Asia Cup Preview: World No.1 Pakistan eye momentum before World Cup but can India, SL put spanner in the work?</a>

<h2>Who is Anamul Haque Bijoy?</h2>

Das’ replacement Bijoy last represented Bangladesh in December 2022 and is a utility option at the openers slot and No.3 for the national team. Bijoy has represented the national side in 44 ODIs, in which he has scored 1254 runs at an average of 30.58, which includes five fifties and three centuries. His wicketkeeping ability also sees him as a good back-up option to Mushfiqur Rahim.

The Tigers arrived in Sri Lanka on Sunday, August 27 as they will start their campaign against the co-hosts on Thursday. They will take on Sri Lanka at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Pallekele. Bangladesh are placed in Group B along with Afghanistan with whom they meet on Sunday, September 3 in Lahore.

Unlike last year’s Asia Cup, Bangladesh will look to make the Super Four stage and will try to go all the way in the tournament. They have been runners-up thrice in the competition, most recently in 2018 when they lost to India in the final.

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Bangladesh have been dealt a major blow in the build-up to the Asia Cup 2023 as star batter and key member of the squad Litton Das has been ruled out of the tournament with fever.

Bangladesh have been dealt a major blow in the build-up to the Asia Cup 2023 as star batter and key member of the squad Litton Das has been ruled out of the tournament with fever. The news was confirmed on Wednesday, August 30 morning as the Chairman of the National Selection Panel, Minhajul Abedin informed of the situation. Wicketkeeper-batter Anamul Haque Bijoy has been roped in as a replacement for Das and will travel with the squad. Bangladesh to miss Das "He [Anamul] has been in the runs in domestic cricket and we have continued to monitor him in the Bangladesh Tigers program. He was always in our consideration," Minhajul Abedin, Chairman of the national selection panel, said. "Due to Litton's unavailability, we needed a top-order batter who could keep wicket and Anamul got the nod." The blow will be huge for Bangladesh considering Das was their highest scorer in ODIs since 2022 with 878 runs in 25 innings at an average of 41.80. The string of good form includes seven fifties and a century with a best of 136 against Afghanistan in February last year. ALSO READ | Asia Cup Preview: World No.1 Pakistan eye momentum before World Cup but can India, SL put spanner in the work? Who is Anamul Haque Bijoy? Das’ replacement Bijoy last represented Bangladesh in December 2022 and is a utility option at the openers slot and No.3 for the national team. Bijoy has represented the national side in 44 ODIs, in which he has scored 1254 runs at an average of 30.58, which includes five fifties and three centuries. His wicketkeeping ability also sees him as a good back-up option to Mushfiqur Rahim. The Tigers arrived in Sri Lanka on Sunday, August 27 as they will start their campaign against the co-hosts on Thursday. They will take on Sri Lanka at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Pallekele. Bangladesh are placed in Group B along with Afghanistan with whom they meet on Sunday, September 3 in Lahore. Unlike last year’s Asia Cup, Bangladesh will look to make the Super Four stage and will try to go all the way in the tournament. They have been runners-up thrice in the competition, most recently in 2018 when they lost to India in the final. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Asia Cup 2023: Blow for Bangladesh as THIS star batter gets ruled out due to fever, Anamul Bijoy roped in

Pakistan's middle-order was the highlight in&nbsp;their recent&nbsp;3-0 win against Afghanistan and the same was on display in Asia Cup 2023 opener against Nepal on Wednesday, August 30. Batting first after winning the toss, Pakistan lost two wickets in quick succession twice during the innings before skipper Babar Azam and Iftikhar Ahmed joined forces.

While Babar scored 151, his 19th ODI ton, Ahmed went on to record his first ODI century and finished 109 not out off just 71 balls. The duo added 214 runs for the fifth wicket as Pakistan scored 342/6 in 50 overs. While Babar became the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-pak-skipper-babar-azam-goes-past-virat-kohli-hashim-amla-to-achieve-this-feat-with-ton-vs-nepal-630638">fastest to score 19 ODI tons</a>, Ahmed too joined an elite list in context of Pakistan history.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-babar-iftikhar-and-bowlers-dismantle-nepal-as-pakistan-win-by-238-runs-630640">Babar, Iftikhar and bowlers dismantle Nepal as Pakistan win by 238 runs</a>

Aged 32 years and 361 days, Ahmed became the second oldest player to score his first ODI century for Pakistan. The only player ahead of him is Zaheer Abbas who was 34 years 146 days old when he scored his maiden ton in ODIs in 1981 against Australia.

Ahmed's innings was divided in two parts - his first fifty runs came off 43 balls while the second 50 came in 24 balls. With a ton off 67 balls, Ahmed also joined the list of fastest centuries for Pakistan in ODIs. He currently is joint-fifth on the list with former cricketer Shahid Afridi on top three places having scored a ton off 37, 45 and 53 balls. The next two places go to Sharjeel Khan and Basit Ali who had scored an ODI hundred off 61 and 67 balls, respectively.

Chasing a huge total of 343 in 50 overs, Nepal was never in contention against the pace trio of Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf and got bundled out for a paltry 104 runs in 23.4 overs. Spinners also played their part after first five Nepalese wickets were shared by pacers.&nbsp;

Mohammad Nawaz sent back Dipendra Singh Airee in the 21st over before Shadab Khan wreaked havoc. The leg-spinner accounted for rest of the four wickets including final two in space of three balls to finish 4/27 in 6.4 overs as Pak won by 238 runs.

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Pakistan's middle-order was the highlight in their recent 3-0 win against Afghanistan and the same was on display in Asia Cup 2023 opener against Nepal on Wednesday, August 30.

Pakistan's middle-order was the highlight in their recent 3-0 win against Afghanistan and the same was on display in Asia Cup 2023 opener against Nepal on Wednesday, August 30. Batting first after winning the toss, Pakistan lost two wickets in quick succession twice during the innings before skipper Babar Azam and Iftikhar Ahmed joined forces. While Babar scored 151, his 19th ODI ton, Ahmed went on to record his first ODI century and finished 109 not out off just 71 balls. The duo added 214 runs for the fifth wicket as Pakistan scored 342/6 in 50 overs. While Babar became the fastest to score 19 ODI tons, Ahmed too joined an elite list in context of Pakistan history. Also Read: Babar, Iftikhar and bowlers dismantle Nepal as Pakistan win by 238 runs Aged 32 years and 361 days, Ahmed became the second oldest player to score his first ODI century for Pakistan. The only player ahead of him is Zaheer Abbas who was 34 years 146 days old when he scored his maiden ton in ODIs in 1981 against Australia. Ahmed's innings was divided in two parts - his first fifty runs came off 43 balls while the second 50 came in 24 balls. With a ton off 67 balls, Ahmed also joined the list of fastest centuries for Pakistan in ODIs. He currently is joint-fifth on the list with former cricketer Shahid Afridi on top three places having scored a ton off 37, 45 and 53 balls. The next two places go to Sharjeel Khan and Basit Ali who had scored an ODI hundred off 61 and 67 balls, respectively. Chasing a huge total of 343 in 50 overs, Nepal was never in contention against the pace trio of Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf and got bundled out for a paltry 104 runs in 23.4 overs. Spinners also played their part after first five Nepalese wickets were shared by pacers. Mohammad Nawaz sent back Dipendra Singh Airee in the 21st over before Shadab Khan wreaked havoc. The leg-spinner accounted for rest of the four wickets including final two in space of three balls to finish 4/27 in 6.4 overs as Pak won by 238 runs. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Asia Cup: Pakistan's Iftikhar Ahmed joins ELITE list with maiden ODI ton in tournament opener against Nepal

Pakistan made small work of their Asia Cup 2023 opener against Nepal as they won the match by 238 runs. Chasing a huge total of 343 in 50 overs, Nepal was never in contention against the pace trio of Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf and got bundled out for a paltry 104 runs in 23.4 overs.

Earlier, Babar Azam and Iftikhar Ahmed hit centuries for Pakistan after some early fall of wickets to help them post 300+. With the win, Pakistan got two points to their name to be on top of Group A.

Nepal, playing for the first time in the regional tournament, had a horrible start of their chase as they lost two wickets in the first over itself to Shaheen Shah Afridi. Naseem Shah struck in the very next over and Nepal were three down for 14 inside two overs.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-pak-skipper-babar-azam-goes-past-virat-kohli-hashim-amla-to-achieve-this-feat-with-ton-vs-nepal-630638">Pak skipper Babar Azam goes past Virat Kohli, Hashim Amla to achieve THIS feat with ton vs Nepal</a>

Aarif Sheikh and Sompal Kami then added 59 runs for the fourth wicket in an attempt to revive the chase. Haris Rauf, however, rendered the attempt futile as he took out both batsmen in two overs to leave Nepal five down for 82 after 17 overs.

Spinners then took over the proceedings as Mohammad Nawaz sent back Dipendra Singh Airee in the 21st over before Shadab Khan wreaked havoc. The leg-spinner accounted for rest of the four wickets including final two in space of three balls to finish 4/27 in 6.4 overs.

Earlier, Pakistan won the toss and decided to bat first in Multan. Nepal struck early and sent back both openers, Fakhar Zaman and Imam-ul-Haq, in 6.1 overs. Babar Azam, who scored a magnificent 151, then added 86 runs with Mohammad Rizwan (44) before the latter got <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-wait-what-md-rizwans-brainfade-moment-makes-heads-turn-during-pakistan-nepal-opener-630606">run out in a bizarre manner</a>.

Nepal created an opening in 28th over of the innings by taking Agha Salman (5) out shortly after Rizwan's wicket but that was the last they celebrated. Iftikhar Ahmed (109 not out) joined his captain on the crease and the duo added 214 runs for the fifth wicket before Pak lost two wickets in last over while trying to accelerate.&nbsp;

For Nepal, Sompal Kami took wickets while Karan KC and Sandeep Lamichhane took one each. Pakistan next play India on September 2 in Kandy, Sri Lanka.

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Pakistan made small work of their Asia Cup 2023 opener against Nepal as they won the match by 238 runs. Chasing a huge total of 343 in 50 overs, Nepal was never in contention against the pace trio of Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf and got bundled out for a paltry 104 runs in 23.

Pakistan made small work of their Asia Cup 2023 opener against Nepal as they won the match by 238 runs. Chasing a huge total of 343 in 50 overs, Nepal was never in contention against the pace trio of Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf and got bundled out for a paltry 104 runs in 23.4 overs. Earlier, Babar Azam and Iftikhar Ahmed hit centuries for Pakistan after some early fall of wickets to help them post 300+. With the win, Pakistan got two points to their name to be on top of Group A. Nepal, playing for the first time in the regional tournament, had a horrible start of their chase as they lost two wickets in the first over itself to Shaheen Shah Afridi. Naseem Shah struck in the very next over and Nepal were three down for 14 inside two overs. Also Read: Pak skipper Babar Azam goes past Virat Kohli, Hashim Amla to achieve THIS feat with ton vs Nepal Aarif Sheikh and Sompal Kami then added 59 runs for the fourth wicket in an attempt to revive the chase. Haris Rauf, however, rendered the attempt futile as he took out both batsmen in two overs to leave Nepal five down for 82 after 17 overs. Spinners then took over the proceedings as Mohammad Nawaz sent back Dipendra Singh Airee in the 21st over before Shadab Khan wreaked havoc. The leg-spinner accounted for rest of the four wickets including final two in space of three balls to finish 4/27 in 6.4 overs. Earlier, Pakistan won the toss and decided to bat first in Multan. Nepal struck early and sent back both openers, Fakhar Zaman and Imam-ul-Haq, in 6.1 overs. Babar Azam, who scored a magnificent 151, then added 86 runs with Mohammad Rizwan (44) before the latter got run out in a bizarre manner. Nepal created an opening in 28th over of the innings by taking Agha Salman (5) out shortly after Rizwan's wicket but that was the last they celebrated. Iftikhar Ahmed (109 not out) joined his captain on the crease and the duo added 214 runs for the fifth wicket before Pak lost two wickets in last over while trying to accelerate. For Nepal, Sompal Kami took wickets while Karan KC and Sandeep Lamichhane took one each. Pakistan next play India on September 2 in Kandy, Sri Lanka. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Asia Cup: Babar, Iftikhar and bowlers dismantle Nepal as Pakistan win by 238 runs

Pakistan started their Asia Cup 2023 campaign on Wednesday, August 30, against Nepal and their skipper Babar Azam led from the front. After losing two early wickets, Babar held the innings together first with Mohammed Rizwan and then with Iftikhar Ahmed as Pakistan went on top in their innings.

Babar scored a magnificent 151 as the hosts posted a mammoth total of 342/6 runs in 50 overs. Babar, in the process of hitting his ton, broke an ODI record as well. This was Babar's 19th ton overall in one-day games and he took just 102 innings to get there. He now tops the list of batsmen who are fastest to reach 19 ODI tons, leaving past the likes of Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers and Hashim Amla.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-women-cricketers-to-get-equal-match-fees-as-male-counterparts-630618">England women cricketers to get equal match fees as male counterparts</a>

Before Babar, South African Amla was the fastest to reach 19 ODI centuries in 104 innings. Former India skipper Kohli, with whom Babar is often compared to, had reached the milestone in 124 innings. Completing the top five of the list are Australia David Warner in 139 innings and de Villiers in 171 innings.

As for the match, Pakistan won the toss and elected to bat first in Multan. Nepal, playing first time in the regional tournament, did well to scalp two quick wickets of openers Fakhar Zaman and Imam-ul-Haq. Babar then added 86 runs for the third wicket with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-wait-what-md-rizwans-brainfade-moment-makes-heads-turn-during-pakistan-nepal-opener-630606">Rizwan (44) who got out rather funnily</a>.

Nepal created an opening in 28th over of the innings by taking Agha Salman (5) out shortly after Rizwan's wicket but that was the last they celebrated. Ahmed (109 not out) joined his captain on the crease and the duo added 214 runs for the fifth wicket before Pak lost two wickets in last over while trying to accelerate.

For Nepal, Sompal Kami took wickets while Karan KC and Sandeep Lamichhane took one each.

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Pakistan started their Asia Cup 2023 campaign on Wednesday, August 30, against Nepal and their skipper Babar Azam led from the front. After losing two early wickets, Babar held the innings together first with Mohammed Rizwan and then with Iftikhar Ahmed as Pakistan went on top in their innings.

Pakistan started their Asia Cup 2023 campaign on Wednesday, August 30, against Nepal and their skipper Babar Azam led from the front. After losing two early wickets, Babar held the innings together first with Mohammed Rizwan and then with Iftikhar Ahmed as Pakistan went on top in their innings. Babar scored a magnificent 151 as the hosts posted a mammoth total of 342/6 runs in 50 overs. Babar, in the process of hitting his ton, broke an ODI record as well. This was Babar's 19th ton overall in one-day games and he took just 102 innings to get there. He now tops the list of batsmen who are fastest to reach 19 ODI tons, leaving past the likes of Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers and Hashim Amla. Also Read: England women cricketers to get equal match fees as male counterparts Before Babar, South African Amla was the fastest to reach 19 ODI centuries in 104 innings. Former India skipper Kohli, with whom Babar is often compared to, had reached the milestone in 124 innings. Completing the top five of the list are Australia David Warner in 139 innings and de Villiers in 171 innings. As for the match, Pakistan won the toss and elected to bat first in Multan. Nepal, playing first time in the regional tournament, did well to scalp two quick wickets of openers Fakhar Zaman and Imam-ul-Haq. Babar then added 86 runs for the third wicket with Rizwan (44) who got out rather funnily. Nepal created an opening in 28th over of the innings by taking Agha Salman (5) out shortly after Rizwan's wicket but that was the last they celebrated. Ahmed (109 not out) joined his captain on the crease and the duo added 214 runs for the fifth wicket before Pak lost two wickets in last over while trying to accelerate. For Nepal, Sompal Kami took wickets while Karan KC and Sandeep Lamichhane took one each. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Asia Cup: Pak skipper Babar Azam goes past Virat Kohli, Hashim Amla to achieve THIS feat with ton vs Nepal

The Asia Cup 2023 is all set for kickoff in Multan after riding with a string of controversies as co-hosts Pakistan meet debutants Nepal in the curtain-raiser on Wednesday, August 30. The so-called official hosts of the Asia Cup will carry momentum into the tournament while wearing the tag of the World No.1 ODI team after beating Afghanistan 3-0. However, an injury-plagued Indian side will look to stop the momentum as they search for their eighth title while defending champions Sri Lanka also try to put a spanner in the work for Pakistan.

<h2>What to watch out for in Asia Cup 2023?</h2>

The arch-rivalry between India and Pakistan will be the talking point of the Asia Cup 2023 as they are entitled to meet more than once. Pakistan fresh from success and carrying momentum with them will try to put India on the back foot who are struggling with injuries to KL Rahul, while also facing a fitness dilemma with Jasprit Bumrah and Shreyas Iyer. The two nations can meet on three occasions if a certain set of results are met in the tournament.

As expected if both India and Pakistan get the better of Nepal, they will meet on Sunday, September 3 while they are already proposed to meet in the group stage on the upcoming Saturday. India won seven meetings between the sides in the Asia Cup while Pakistan have won five with one match ending in no result.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dhoni-groomed-them-and-handed-over-to-kohli-ishant-sharma-on-smooth-transition-of-indian-bowlers-630271">Dhoni groomed them and handed over to Kohli: Ishant Sharma on smooth transition of Indian bowlers</a>

<h2>Other teams</h2>

Apart from India and Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh will come into the Asia Cup with a lot of buzz. Against all the odds, Sri Lanka got the better of Pakistan and India in the Asia Cup 2022 to lift the trophy. However, their cricket has suffered a recent downfall and only needed the qualifiers to book a place at the ODI World Cup in October. They will be led by Dasun Shanaka and will rely on the services of Kusal Mendis and other key members.

After turmoil of events surrounding Tamim Iqbal’s retirement Bangladesh will be led by veteran star Shakib Al Hasan. The three-time runners-up will have an eye for glory but will have to negotiate their way through India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. They are in the group of Sri Lanka and Afghanistan, where they will try to avoid last year’s embarrassment of early exit. Afghanistan will also look to throw behind the disappointment of the ODI series defeat against Pakistan and punch their ticket in the latter stage of the Asia Cup.

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The Asia Cup 2023 is all set for kickoff in Multan after riding with a string of controversies as co-hosts Pakistan meet debutants Nepal in the curtain-raiser on Wednesday, August 30.

The Asia Cup 2023 is all set for kickoff in Multan after riding with a string of controversies as co-hosts Pakistan meet debutants Nepal in the curtain-raiser on Wednesday, August 30. The so-called official hosts of the Asia Cup will carry momentum into the tournament while wearing the tag of the World No.1 ODI team after beating Afghanistan 3-0. However, an injury-plagued Indian side will look to stop the momentum as they search for their eighth title while defending champions Sri Lanka also try to put a spanner in the work for Pakistan. What to watch out for in Asia Cup 2023? The arch-rivalry between India and Pakistan will be the talking point of the Asia Cup 2023 as they are entitled to meet more than once. Pakistan fresh from success and carrying momentum with them will try to put India on the back foot who are struggling with injuries to KL Rahul, while also facing a fitness dilemma with Jasprit Bumrah and Shreyas Iyer. The two nations can meet on three occasions if a certain set of results are met in the tournament. As expected if both India and Pakistan get the better of Nepal, they will meet on Sunday, September 3 while they are already proposed to meet in the group stage on the upcoming Saturday. India won seven meetings between the sides in the Asia Cup while Pakistan have won five with one match ending in no result. ALSO READ | Dhoni groomed them and handed over to Kohli: Ishant Sharma on smooth transition of Indian bowlers Other teams Apart from India and Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh will come into the Asia Cup with a lot of buzz. Against all the odds, Sri Lanka got the better of Pakistan and India in the Asia Cup 2022 to lift the trophy. However, their cricket has suffered a recent downfall and only needed the qualifiers to book a place at the ODI World Cup in October. They will be led by Dasun Shanaka and will rely on the services of Kusal Mendis and other key members. After turmoil of events surrounding Tamim Iqbal’s retirement Bangladesh will be led by veteran star Shakib Al Hasan. The three-time runners-up will have an eye for glory but will have to negotiate their way through India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. They are in the group of Sri Lanka and Afghanistan, where they will try to avoid last year’s embarrassment of early exit. Afghanistan will also look to throw behind the disappointment of the ODI series defeat against Pakistan and punch their ticket in the latter stage of the Asia Cup. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Asia Cup Preview: World No.1 Pakistan eye momentum before World Cup but can India, SL put spanner in the work?

The Asia Cup 2023 edition kicks off on Wednesday evening (August 30) with Babar Azam-led Pakistan hosting Nepal in Multan. The tournament will be jointly hosted by Sri Lanka and Pakistan and the fans are eagerly excited to see the resumption of India-Pakistan rivalry. There is a strong possibility of fans to be treated with as many as three games between the two arch-rivals as they are likely to meet in the Super Four and can also lock horns in the summit clash, on September 17.&nbsp;

At present, India and Pakistan are in Group A and will meet each other on September 02 (Saturday) at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Pallekele. Ahead of the marquee face-off, former Pakistan captain Salman Butt named his national side as the favourites and feels India are solely dependent on captain Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli.&nbsp;

On his YouTube channel, Butt pointed out, "If we look at India's fast bowling, fitness is a concern. Players have been unfit for a long time, we don't know if they are fragile, will they go full throttle. Apart from Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, they have youngsters, who have played plenty of cricket but they don't have that much of experience."

He asserted, "India have won matches only when Rohit Sharma has played well or Virat Kohli has done something spectacular. When the onus is on others they have mostly struggled. Pakistan have Babar, Rizwan, Fakhar, Shadab, Shaheen, Haris Rauf. And in my opinion Pakistan have a much larger core group. India too have match-winners like Jadeja, Shami, Bumrah, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli. But their batting is brittle, if Pakistan pick the two big wickets then the others will have a lot to prove. They have not helped India win matches against Pakistan or in their own."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-2023-babar-azam-led-pakistan-announce-playing-xi-for-nepal-clash-mohammad-nawaz-in-usama-mir-out-630332">Asia Cup 2023: Babar Azam-led Pakistan announce Playing XI for Nepal clash; Mohammad Nawaz in, Usama Mir out</a>

Butt further opined on where the Men in Green have an 'added advantage' and said, "We have bowlers who can bowl at 90mph, only one or two can touch 90mph, others don't have that much pace. This is an added advantage. We have both type of spinners, fast bowling all-rounder, and he too touches 140kph."

In addition, Butt spoke about Indian youngsters and acknowledged their experience of facing tough situations in the Indian Premier League (IPL). However, he was quick to add that an Indo-Pak battle is a different ball game altogether and adds more pressure. “There are plenty of expectations from India, hence the pressure is more. And since India have not played against Pakistan for a long time for whatever reasons, their players no matter how much IPL they've played, they don't have the experience of playing in such high-voltage clash.&nbsp;Chahe subah, dopahar, sham IPL khel le&nbsp;(no matter how much you play in the IPL) it does not bring the same pressure, which is during India-Pakistan series,” he added.

The continental tournament is taking place in the 50-over format as the Asian giants are gearing up for the forthcoming ODI World Cup, in India, which kicks off on October 05.

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The Asia Cup 2023 edition kicks off on Wednesday evening (August 30) with Babar Azam-led Pakistan hosting Nepal in Multan. The tournament will be jointly hosted by Sri Lanka and Pakistan and the fans are eagerly excited to see the resumption of India-Pakistan rivalry.

The Asia Cup 2023 edition kicks off on Wednesday evening (August 30) with Babar Azam-led Pakistan hosting Nepal in Multan. The tournament will be jointly hosted by Sri Lanka and Pakistan and the fans are eagerly excited to see the resumption of India-Pakistan rivalry. There is a strong possibility of fans to be treated with as many as three games between the two arch-rivals as they are likely to meet in the Super Four and can also lock horns in the summit clash, on September 17. At present, India and Pakistan are in Group A and will meet each other on September 02 (Saturday) at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Pallekele. Ahead of the marquee face-off, former Pakistan captain Salman Butt named his national side as the favourites and feels India are solely dependent on captain Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. On his YouTube channel, Butt pointed out, "If we look at India's fast bowling, fitness is a concern. Players have been unfit for a long time, we don't know if they are fragile, will they go full throttle. Apart from Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, they have youngsters, who have played plenty of cricket but they don't have that much of experience." He asserted, "India have won matches only when Rohit Sharma has played well or Virat Kohli has done something spectacular. When the onus is on others they have mostly struggled. Pakistan have Babar, Rizwan, Fakhar, Shadab, Shaheen, Haris Rauf. And in my opinion Pakistan have a much larger core group. India too have match-winners like Jadeja, Shami, Bumrah, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli. But their batting is brittle, if Pakistan pick the two big wickets then the others will have a lot to prove. They have not helped India win matches against Pakistan or in their own." Also read: Asia Cup 2023: Babar Azam-led Pakistan announce Playing XI for Nepal clash; Mohammad Nawaz in, Usama Mir out Butt further opined on where the Men in Green have an 'added advantage' and said, "We have bowlers who can bowl at 90mph, only one or two can touch 90mph, others don't have that much pace. This is an added advantage. We have both type of spinners, fast bowling all-rounder, and he too touches 140kph." In addition, Butt spoke about Indian youngsters and acknowledged their experience of facing tough situations in the Indian Premier League (IPL). However, he was quick to add that an Indo-Pak battle is a different ball game altogether and adds more pressure. “There are plenty of expectations from India, hence the pressure is more. And since India have not played against Pakistan for a long time for whatever reasons, their players no matter how much IPL they've played, they don't have the experience of playing in such high-voltage clash. Chahe subah, dopahar, sham IPL khel le (no matter how much you play in the IPL) it does not bring the same pressure, which is during India-Pakistan series,” he added. The continental tournament is taking place in the 50-over format as the Asian giants are gearing up for the forthcoming ODI World Cup, in India, which kicks off on October 05. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'No matter how much IPL you play...': Ex-Pak captain names Babar & Co. favourites ahead of India clash

Pakistan have posted a mammoth 342 for 6 after opting to bat first versus Nepal in the opening game of the Asia Cup in Multan, Pakistan on Wednesday (August 30). The No. 1 ranked ODI side were challenged with Nepal striking early before Babar Azam (151) and Mohammed Rizwan got together, for the fourth wicket, whereas the skipper carried on from his end and was well supported by another centurion Iftikhar Ahmed (unbeaten on 109). However, it was Rizwan's mode of dismissal which remained a hot topic of debate.

It was the 23rd over of the Pakistani innings when Rizwan got run-out for a 50-ball 44.&nbsp;The right-hander hit a four off Nepal Lamichhane's previous delivery and went for a quick single, on the off-side, in the following ball. Nepal&nbsp;fielder, Dipendra Singh Airee swiftly collected the ball, stationed at covers, and a direct hit costed Rizwan's fall.&nbsp;What made heads turn was that Rizwan fumbled and he did not ground his bat whereas the veteran chose to jump, in a bid to avoid being hit by the throw. Since then, he has been&nbsp;trolled on social media platform X, formerly Twitter.&nbsp;Here are some of the reactions:

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Superman rizwan flying in the air <a href="https://t.co/gnWrXX2MqF">https://t.co/gnWrXX2MqF</a>
— Hannan (@be_likehannan) <a href="https://twitter.com/be_likehannan/status/1696845380946690257?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 30, 2023</a></blockquote>
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What is this behaviour!!??😭😭😭😭<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PAKvsNEP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PAKvsNEP</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Rizwan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Rizwan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AsiaCup2023?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AsiaCup2023</a> <a href="https://t.co/0Qf7SFlfQ7">pic.twitter.com/0Qf7SFlfQ7</a>
— Mahnoor Arif (@magic_peach007) <a href="https://twitter.com/magic_peach007/status/1696845464199422420?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 30, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Pakistan Cricket Is Back 
 
Vintage Pakistan Cricket 
This kind of Run-Out is permanent. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PAKvNEP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PAKvNEP</a> 
 
Pakistan Cricket And These Type Of Eun Outs 
 
OLD LOVE STORY 💗<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/mohammadrizwan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#mohammadrizwan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/rizwan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#rizwan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NEPvsPAK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NEPvsPAK</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PAKvNEP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PAKvNEP</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BabarAzam?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BabarAzam</a> <a href="https://t.co/kxKCD5frcV">pic.twitter.com/kxKCD5frcV</a>
— the DUGOUT ! (@teams_dream) <a href="https://twitter.com/teams_dream/status/1696845485439586716?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 30, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Rizwan be like, 
I'm a Barbie girl, in the barbie world. <a href="https://t.co/FPtf8ermCh">pic.twitter.com/FPtf8ermCh</a>
— Naveed Athar Mazari (@naveedamazari) <a href="https://twitter.com/naveedamazari/status/1696850048649503085?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 30, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kohlis-82-in-t20-world-cup-will-linger-in-minds-of-pakistan-players-feels-kaif-ahead-of-asia-cup-clash-630586">Kohli's 82* in T20 World Cup will linger in minds of Pakistan players, feels Kaif ahead of Asia Cup clash</a>

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Poor Running By M Rizwan...😶😶 
Pakistan in Trouble 👍🤨 
...<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PAKvsNEP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PAKvsNEP</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PakvsNepal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PakvsNepal</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AsiaCup2023?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AsiaCup2023</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pakistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pakistan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Nepal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Nepal</a> <a href="https://t.co/33WpjdzIdk">pic.twitter.com/33WpjdzIdk</a>
— Faheem Mehsud (@FaheemMehsud1) <a href="https://twitter.com/FaheemMehsud1/status/1696845499268317377?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 30, 2023</a></blockquote>
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India's veteran off-spinner R Ashwin, who remains active on various aspects of the gentlemen's game on social media, also tweeted saying, "The height of the throw made it harder to evade for Rizwan but for someone who generally dives to make his ground all the time while running between the wickets, this is a rare instance of him ducking for cover and the only reason is that he isn’t wearing his helmet. He loves sweeping against spin and no helmet makes it even more bizarre."

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The height of the throw made it harder to evade for Rizwan but for someone who generally dives to make his ground all the time while running between the wickets, this is a rare instance of him ducking for cover and the only reason is that he isn’t wearing his helmet. 
 
He loves… <a href="https://t.co/asBSX6rf9n">pic.twitter.com/asBSX6rf9n</a>
— Ashwin 🇮🇳 (@ashwinravi99) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99/status/1696845777870700749?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 30, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Rizwan will be eager to move past his dismissal and make the most of his chances in the remaining games in the continental tournament. For Pakistan, they have given a momentous target to lowly-ranked Nepal. It will be interesting to see if the latter manages to challenge the home side, comprising a formidable bowling attack.

The Men in Green will next lock horns with India on September 02, in Pallekele, Kandy, as the three sides are placed in Group A. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Afghanistan are in Group B. The tournament is being held in Sri Lanka and Pakistan and is touted to be an ideal&nbsp;dress rehearsal for the upcoming ODI World Cup in India, starting on October 05.

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Pakistan have posted a mammoth 342 for 6 after opting to bat first versus Nepal in the opening game of the Asia Cup in Multan, Pakistan on Wednesday (August 30).

Pakistan have posted a mammoth 342 for 6 after opting to bat first versus Nepal in the opening game of the Asia Cup in Multan, Pakistan on Wednesday (August 30). The No. 1 ranked ODI side were challenged with Nepal striking early before Babar Azam (151) and Mohammed Rizwan got together, for the fourth wicket, whereas the skipper carried on from his end and was well supported by another centurion Iftikhar Ahmed (unbeaten on 109). However, it was Rizwan's mode of dismissal which remained a hot topic of debate. It was the 23rd over of the Pakistani innings when Rizwan got run-out for a 50-ball 44. The right-hander hit a four off Nepal Lamichhane's previous delivery and went for a quick single, on the off-side, in the following ball. Nepal fielder, Dipendra Singh Airee swiftly collected the ball, stationed at covers, and a direct hit costed Rizwan's fall. What made heads turn was that Rizwan fumbled and he did not ground his bat whereas the veteran chose to jump, in a bid to avoid being hit by the throw. Since then, he has been trolled on social media platform X, formerly Twitter. Here are some of the reactions: Superman rizwan flying in the air https://t.co/gnWrXX2MqF — Hannan (@be_likehannan) August 30, 2023 × What is this behaviour!!??😭😭😭😭#PAKvsNEP #Rizwan #AsiaCup2023 pic.twitter.com/0Qf7SFlfQ7 — Mahnoor Arif (@magic_peach007) August 30, 2023 × Pakistan Cricket Is Back Vintage Pakistan Cricket This kind of Run-Out is permanent. #PAKvNEP Pakistan Cricket And These Type Of Eun Outs OLD LOVE STORY 💗#mohammadrizwan #rizwan #NEPvsPAK #PAKvNEP #BabarAzam pic.twitter.com/kxKCD5frcV — the DUGOUT ! (@teams_dream) August 30, 2023 × Rizwan be like, I'm a Barbie girl, in the barbie world. pic.twitter.com/FPtf8ermCh — Naveed Athar Mazari (@naveedamazari) August 30, 2023 × Also read: Kohli's 82* in T20 World Cup will linger in minds of Pakistan players, feels Kaif ahead of Asia Cup clash Poor Running By M Rizwan...😶😶 Pakistan in Trouble 👍🤨 ...#PAKvsNEP #PakvsNepal #AsiaCup2023 #Pakistan #Nepal pic.twitter.com/33WpjdzIdk — Faheem Mehsud (@FaheemMehsud1) August 30, 2023 × India's veteran off-spinner R Ashwin, who remains active on various aspects of the gentlemen's game on social media, also tweeted saying, "The height of the throw made it harder to evade for Rizwan but for someone who generally dives to make his ground all the time while running between the wickets, this is a rare instance of him ducking for cover and the only reason is that he isn’t wearing his helmet. He loves sweeping against spin and no helmet makes it even more bizarre." The height of the throw made it harder to evade for Rizwan but for someone who generally dives to make his ground all the time while running between the wickets, this is a rare instance of him ducking for cover and the only reason is that he isn’t wearing his helmet. He loves… pic.twitter.com/asBSX6rf9n — Ashwin 🇮🇳 (@ashwinravi99) August 30, 2023 × Rizwan will be eager to move past his dismissal and make the most of his chances in the remaining games in the continental tournament. For Pakistan, they have given a momentous target to lowly-ranked Nepal. It will be interesting to see if the latter manages to challenge the home side, comprising a formidable bowling attack. The Men in Green will next lock horns with India on September 02, in Pallekele, Kandy, as the three sides are placed in Group A. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Afghanistan are in Group B. The tournament is being held in Sri Lanka and Pakistan and is touted to be an ideal dress rehearsal for the upcoming ODI World Cup in India, starting on October 05. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Asia Cup: Wait, what? Md Rizwan's BRAINFADE moment makes heads turn during Pakistan-Nepal opener

After a lot of wait, the Asia Cup 2023 edition is now underway. Babar Azam-led Pakistan have locked horns with Nepal in the opening game in Multan, Pakistan on Wednesday (August 30). The current edition is being held in the 50-over format for the ODI World Cup and is also taking place in two countries, for the first time ever, including Sri Lanka. The Islanders came into the picture after India's reluctance to travel to Pakistan, the original hosts, due to their strained political relations. On Tuesday (August 29), ahead of the Pakistan-Nepal clash, Men in Green captain Babar spoke about the hectic scheduling as all teams, barring India, are set to travel regularly within a short span of time.

<h2>'Unfortunately, nothing can be done about it'</h2>

Talking to the reporters before the match, Babar said, "If you ask me, it would have been good if the whole tournament would have been held in Pakistan, but unfortunately, nothing can be done about it," Babar said at the pre-tournament media conference. "As professionals, we are ready for any schedule that is given to us. There would be travelling as well as back-to-back games and we are ready for that."

It is to be noted that Pakistan kick&nbsp;off their campaign on Wednesday against Nepal in Multan and then will soon leave for&nbsp;Sri Lanka the very next day as they face off with arch-rivals India on September 02 in Kandy. Within a day, they will be back in Lahore for their Super Four game (as qualification for the next stage very likely) on September 6 and will again land in the Island nation for their following game&nbsp;on September 9.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-matter-how-much-ipl-you-play-ex-pak-captain-names-babar-co-favourites-ahead-of-india-clash-630453">'No matter how much IPL you play...': Ex-Pak captain names Babar &amp; Co. favourites ahead of India clash</a>

Babar explained how Pakistan will deal with the hectic schedule amid regular travelling. In this regard, the 28-year-old said, "Our coaches and support staff have chalked out plans about how much we would utilise each player and also we have booked our flights in such a manner, that our travelling schedule gives enough time to rest.

At present, Pakistan will look for a big win over Nepal to kick off their Asia Cup campaign in style with their next outing versus Team India. Here's the No. 1 ranked ODI side's playing XI for the Nepal tie.

<h2>Pakistan playing XI for Nepal match</h2>

Babar Azam (C), Shadab Khan (vc), Fakhar Zaman, Salman Ali Agha, Iftikhar Ahmed, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Mohammad Nawaz, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf

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After a lot of wait, the Asia Cup 2023 edition is now underway. Babar Azam-led Pakistan have locked horns with Nepal in the opening game in Multan, Pakistan on Wednesday (August 30).

After a lot of wait, the Asia Cup 2023 edition is now underway. Babar Azam-led Pakistan have locked horns with Nepal in the opening game in Multan, Pakistan on Wednesday (August 30). The current edition is being held in the 50-over format for the ODI World Cup and is also taking place in two countries, for the first time ever, including Sri Lanka. The Islanders came into the picture after India's reluctance to travel to Pakistan, the original hosts, due to their strained political relations. On Tuesday (August 29), ahead of the Pakistan-Nepal clash, Men in Green captain Babar spoke about the hectic scheduling as all teams, barring India, are set to travel regularly within a short span of time. 'Unfortunately, nothing can be done about it' Talking to the reporters before the match, Babar said, "If you ask me, it would have been good if the whole tournament would have been held in Pakistan, but unfortunately, nothing can be done about it," Babar said at the pre-tournament media conference. "As professionals, we are ready for any schedule that is given to us. There would be travelling as well as back-to-back games and we are ready for that." It is to be noted that Pakistan kick off their campaign on Wednesday against Nepal in Multan and then will soon leave for Sri Lanka the very next day as they face off with arch-rivals India on September 02 in Kandy. Within a day, they will be back in Lahore for their Super Four game (as qualification for the next stage very likely) on September 6 and will again land in the Island nation for their following game on September 9. Also read: 'No matter how much IPL you play...': Ex-Pak captain names Babar & Co. favourites ahead of India clash Babar explained how Pakistan will deal with the hectic schedule amid regular travelling. In this regard, the 28-year-old said, "Our coaches and support staff have chalked out plans about how much we would utilise each player and also we have booked our flights in such a manner, that our travelling schedule gives enough time to rest. At present, Pakistan will look for a big win over Nepal to kick off their Asia Cup campaign in style with their next outing versus Team India. Here's the No. 1 ranked ODI side's playing XI for the Nepal tie. Pakistan playing XI for Nepal match Babar Azam (C), Shadab Khan (vc), Fakhar Zaman, Salman Ali Agha, Iftikhar Ahmed, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Mohammad Nawaz, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Would've been good if Asia Cup 2023 was held entirely in Pakistan, says Babar Azam ahead of Nepal tie

Pakistan vs Nepal Live Streaming, Asia Cup 2023: The first match of Asia's biggest cricket tournament is all set to commence on August 30. The series will be co-hosted by Sri Lanka and Pakistan. The first game will be played at Multan Cricket Stadium. The home country is all set to mark its victory. The team will be led by Babar Azam. The team has a strong hand in batting with players like Fakhar Zaman, Iman-ul-Haq, Iftikhar Ahmed and Mohammad Rizwan.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Nepal also enters the contest with a set of its own players. Among the batsmen are Kushal Bhurtel, Bhim Sharki, Arjun Saud and Asif Sheikh.&nbsp;

Here's all you need to know about PAK vs NEP Asia Cup 2023: Match Details

Date: August 30

Time: 3:00 pm IST

Venue: Multan Cricket Stadium

<h2>PAK vs NEP Asia Cup 2023 1st Match: Squads</h2>

Nepal:

Rohit Paudel (c), Kushal Bhurtel, Aasif Sheikh, Bhim Sharki, Kushal Malla, Aarif Sheikh, Dipendra Singh Airee, Gulshan Jha, Sompal Kami, Karan KC, Sandeep Lamichhane, Lalit Rajbanshi, Pratish GC, Mousom Dhakal, Sundeep Jora, Kishore Mahato, Arjun Saud

Pakistan:

Babar Azam (c), Abdullah Shafique, Fakhar Zaman, Imam-ul-Haq, Salman Ali Agha, Iftikhar Ahmed, Mohammad Rizwan, Mohammad Haris, Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Usama Mir, Faheem Ashraf, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Afridi, Saud Shakeel, Tayyab Tahir (travelling reserve)

<h2>PAK vs NEP: When and where to watch, live coverage online</h2>

When will the 1st match between Pakistan and Nepal be played?

The first match of Asia Cup 2023, between Pakistan and Nepal will be played on August 30.&nbsp;

Where will the Asia Cup 2023 1st match between Pakistan and Nepal be played?

The match between Pakistan and Nepal will be played at the Multan Cricket Stadium.&nbsp;

What time will the match between Pakistan vs Nepal begin?

The match between Pakistan and Nepal will begin at 03:00 pm IST.&nbsp;

Which TV channels will broadcast the Pakistan vs Nepal Asia Cup 2023?

In India, the match between Pakistan and Nepal will be televised on Star Sports.&nbsp;

How do I watch the live streaming of Pakistan vs Nepal Asia Cup 2023?

Cricket fans can watch the Pakistan vs Nepal Asia Cup 2023 match live on Hotstar.&nbsp;

<h2>PAK vs NEP Asia Cup 2023 Probable Playing XI</h2>

Pakistan: Fakhar Zaman, Imam-ul-Haq, Babar Azam (c), Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Agha Salman, Iftikhar Ahmed, Shadab Khan, Mohammad Wasim Jr., Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf

Nepal: Kushal Bhurtel, Aasif Sheikh (wk), Bhim Sharki, Rohit Paudel (c), Kushal Malla, Dipendra Singh Airee, Gulsan Jha, Sompal Kami, Karan KC, Sandeep Lamichhane, and Lalit Rajbanshi

&nbsp;

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Pakistan vs Nepal Live Streaming, Asia Cup 2023: The first match of Asia's biggest cricket tournament is all set to commence on August 30. The series will be co-hosted by Sri Lanka and Pakistan.

Pakistan vs Nepal Live Streaming, Asia Cup 2023: The first match of Asia's biggest cricket tournament is all set to commence on August 30. The series will be co-hosted by Sri Lanka and Pakistan. The first game will be played at Multan Cricket Stadium. The home country is all set to mark its victory. The team will be led by Babar Azam. The team has a strong hand in batting with players like Fakhar Zaman, Iman-ul-Haq, Iftikhar Ahmed and Mohammad Rizwan. Meanwhile, Nepal also enters the contest with a set of its own players. Among the batsmen are Kushal Bhurtel, Bhim Sharki, Arjun Saud and Asif Sheikh. Here's all you need to know about PAK vs NEP Asia Cup 2023: Match Details Date: August 30 Time: 3:00 pm IST Venue: Multan Cricket Stadium PAK vs NEP Asia Cup 2023 1st Match: Squads Nepal: Rohit Paudel (c), Kushal Bhurtel, Aasif Sheikh, Bhim Sharki, Kushal Malla, Aarif Sheikh, Dipendra Singh Airee, Gulshan Jha, Sompal Kami, Karan KC, Sandeep Lamichhane, Lalit Rajbanshi, Pratish GC, Mousom Dhakal, Sundeep Jora, Kishore Mahato, Arjun Saud Pakistan: Babar Azam (c), Abdullah Shafique, Fakhar Zaman, Imam-ul-Haq, Salman Ali Agha, Iftikhar Ahmed, Mohammad Rizwan, Mohammad Haris, Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Usama Mir, Faheem Ashraf, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Afridi, Saud Shakeel, Tayyab Tahir (travelling reserve) PAK vs NEP: When and where to watch, live coverage online When will the 1st match between Pakistan and Nepal be played? The first match of Asia Cup 2023, between Pakistan and Nepal will be played on August 30. Where will the Asia Cup 2023 1st match between Pakistan and Nepal be played? The match between Pakistan and Nepal will be played at the Multan Cricket Stadium. What time will the match between Pakistan vs Nepal begin? The match between Pakistan and Nepal will begin at 03:00 pm IST. Which TV channels will broadcast the Pakistan vs Nepal Asia Cup 2023? In India, the match between Pakistan and Nepal will be televised on Star Sports. How do I watch the live streaming of Pakistan vs Nepal Asia Cup 2023? Cricket fans can watch the Pakistan vs Nepal Asia Cup 2023 match live on Hotstar. PAK vs NEP Asia Cup 2023 Probable Playing XI Pakistan: Fakhar Zaman, Imam-ul-Haq, Babar Azam (c), Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Agha Salman, Iftikhar Ahmed, Shadab Khan, Mohammad Wasim Jr., Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf Nepal: Kushal Bhurtel, Aasif Sheikh (wk), Bhim Sharki, Rohit Paudel (c), Kushal Malla, Dipendra Singh Airee, Gulsan Jha, Sompal Kami, Karan KC, Sandeep Lamichhane, and Lalit Rajbanshi WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Pakistan vs Nepal Live Streaming: Asia Cup 2023 PAK vs NEP match date, time, venue, squads, Playing XI

On Tuesday (August 29), Team India head coach Rahul Dravid confirmed that Indian batter KL Rahul is set to miss the first two games in the Asia Cup. The continental tournament, which will be held in the ODI format in Sri Lanka and Pakistan, gets underway on Wednesday evening (August 30) with co-hosts Babar Azam &amp; Co. taking on Nepal in Multan, Pakistan. Rohit Sharma-led India begin their campaign on September 02, in Pallekele, versus arch-rivals Pakistan. Thus, Rahul will be a big miss for the Men in Blue during their Kandy leg, where they also play Nepal on September 04 (Monday).

It is to be noted that the middle-order batter was named in India's final 17-member squad for the Asia Cup after he recovered from his original injury, i.e. a hip injury he suffered during IPL 2023. However, BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar made it clear that the the 31-year-old has picked up a niggle, unrelated to his original injury, and will be closely monitored for the initial few games in the Asia Cup. With him out of action, Ishan Kishan is a strong contender to replace him in the line-up.

<h2>'The news is not good for Indian fans'</h2>

Ahead of India's Asia Cup opener, versus Pakistan,&nbsp;Mohammed Kaif -- India's former batter -- opined on Rahul's fitness. Speaking to Star Sports, Kaif pointed out, "This means KL Rahul’s injury could aggravate. If he is unfit now, there is no guarantee that he will be fit after two games. The news is not good for Indian fans because Rahul plays very well at No. 5 in ODIs. His stats are very good."

Kaif further stated, "He knows how to shift gears, is able to play big shots, and knows how to stabilize innings. You won’t get a replacement even if you play Ishan Kishan. Apart from wicket-keeping, Rahul also provides a finishing touch."

Rahul has been exceptional for India at No. 5, scoring 742 runs in 18 innings at an average of 53 along with an impressive strike rate of 99.33. Further, he has seven fifties and a solitary ton as well.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-matter-how-much-ipl-you-play-ex-pak-captain-names-babar-co-favourites-ahead-of-india-clash-630453">'No matter how much IPL you play...': Ex-Pak captain names Babar &amp; Co. favourites ahead of India clash</a>

Kaif shared his take on India's likely playing XI after Rahul's absence. While Shubman Gill has struggled with the bat in recent times, managing only 102 runs in the West T20Is, the former cricketer feels he has to be in the top order. “Gill’s form has slightly dropped. He didn’t fare well on the West Indies tour, but I think the Kandy pitch will suit him. He loves pace and bounce. The ball will move, so the challenge will always be there for the top 3," added Kaif.

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On Tuesday (August 29), Team India head coach Rahul Dravid confirmed that Indian batter KL Rahul is set to miss the first two games in the Asia Cup. The continental tournament, which will be held in the ODI format in Sri Lanka and Pakistan, gets underway on Wednesday evening (August 30) with co-hosts Babar Azam & Co.

On Tuesday (August 29), Team India head coach Rahul Dravid confirmed that Indian batter KL Rahul is set to miss the first two games in the Asia Cup. The continental tournament, which will be held in the ODI format in Sri Lanka and Pakistan, gets underway on Wednesday evening (August 30) with co-hosts Babar Azam & Co. taking on Nepal in Multan, Pakistan. Rohit Sharma-led India begin their campaign on September 02, in Pallekele, versus arch-rivals Pakistan. Thus, Rahul will be a big miss for the Men in Blue during their Kandy leg, where they also play Nepal on September 04 (Monday). It is to be noted that the middle-order batter was named in India's final 17-member squad for the Asia Cup after he recovered from his original injury, i.e. a hip injury he suffered during IPL 2023. However, BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar made it clear that the the 31-year-old has picked up a niggle, unrelated to his original injury, and will be closely monitored for the initial few games in the Asia Cup. With him out of action, Ishan Kishan is a strong contender to replace him in the line-up. 'The news is not good for Indian fans' Ahead of India's Asia Cup opener, versus Pakistan, Mohammed Kaif -- India's former batter -- opined on Rahul's fitness. Speaking to Star Sports, Kaif pointed out, "This means KL Rahul’s injury could aggravate. If he is unfit now, there is no guarantee that he will be fit after two games. The news is not good for Indian fans because Rahul plays very well at No. 5 in ODIs. His stats are very good." Kaif further stated, "He knows how to shift gears, is able to play big shots, and knows how to stabilize innings. You won’t get a replacement even if you play Ishan Kishan. Apart from wicket-keeping, Rahul also provides a finishing touch." Rahul has been exceptional for India at No. 5, scoring 742 runs in 18 innings at an average of 53 along with an impressive strike rate of 99.33. Further, he has seven fifties and a solitary ton as well. Also read: 'No matter how much IPL you play...': Ex-Pak captain names Babar & Co. favourites ahead of India clash Kaif shared his take on India's likely playing XI after Rahul's absence. While Shubman Gill has struggled with the bat in recent times, managing only 102 runs in the West T20Is, the former cricketer feels he has to be in the top order. “Gill’s form has slightly dropped. He didn’t fare well on the West Indies tour, but I think the Kandy pitch will suit him. He loves pace and bounce. The ball will move, so the challenge will always be there for the top 3," added Kaif. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'No guarantee...': Kaif concerned over KL Rahul's fitness as India batter set to miss Kandy leg of Asia Cup

Pakistan enter the Asia Cup as the world's top-ranked side in ODI Cricket. The designated hosts oscillate between the sublime and ridiculous and there is never a dull moment with the 1992 World Champions. Wion Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo sets up Pakistan's campaign ahead of their opener against Nepal.

Asia Cup: World no. 1 Pakistan begin WC dress rehearsal

Former India captain Virat Kohli is all geared up for the upcoming Asia Cup 2023 as he embarks on a crucial period that will see some big-ticket events. Virat, who will have his eyes on the ODI World Cup, has emphasised the Asia Cup to be the perfect platform for the preparations while suggesting the 50-over format is his favourite. India are set to take on Pakistan and Nepal in the upcoming Asia Cup that kickstarts on Wednesday, August 30.

<h2>Virat ready for Asia Cup</h2>

“I love playing ODI cricket. I think for me, ODI cricket is probably the one format that tests your game completely. Your technique, composure, patience, playing the situation, and playing differently in different phases of the game.

“So, I think it tests you as a batsman completely, and I feel the ODI cricket has always brought the best out of me because I like to embrace that challenge and play according to the situation to help my team win. I have always tried to do that, so yeah, as I said, it gives me an opportunity to test myself regularly, all aspects of my batting, and that’s why I really enjoy playing ODI cricket,” Kohli said on Star Sports.

The Indian team is all set to take on arch-rivals Pakistan on Saturday, September 2 in a high-voltage clash while they will take on Nepal on Monday. The 34-year-old has an impressive record in the ODI format where he has amassed 46 hundreds, second-most after Sachin Tendulkar. Virat needs three more tons to go level with the legendary player.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dhoni-groomed-them-and-handed-over-to-kohli-ishant-sharma-on-smooth-transition-of-indian-bowlers-630271">Dhoni groomed them and handed over to Kohli: Ishant Sharma on smooth transition of Indian bowlers</a>

<h2>Eyes on the big prize</h2>

Virat will also have his eyes on the ODI World Cup glory where he will be chasing his second title. Virat won the ODI World Cup in 2011 when India went all the way in their backyard. He is likely to remain the only player to make the squad from the 2011 World Cup winning campaign, with Ravichandran Ashwin likely to miss out.&nbsp;

Virat had good memories from his last Asia Cup tournament in 2022, despite India getting knocked out in the Super Four stage. He scored his first hundred in international cricket since 2019 when India beat Afghanistan in UAE. The knock proved to be a decisive one as Virat returned to form and was the leading run scorer in the 2022 T20 World Cup.

&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

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Former India captain Virat Kohli is all geared up for the upcoming Asia Cup 2023 as he embarks on a crucial period that will see some big-ticket events. Virat, who will have his eyes on the ODI World Cup, has emphasised the Asia Cup to be the perfect platform for the preparations while suggesting the 50-over format is his favourite.

Former India captain Virat Kohli is all geared up for the upcoming Asia Cup 2023 as he embarks on a crucial period that will see some big-ticket events. Virat, who will have his eyes on the ODI World Cup, has emphasised the Asia Cup to be the perfect platform for the preparations while suggesting the 50-over format is his favourite. India are set to take on Pakistan and Nepal in the upcoming Asia Cup that kickstarts on Wednesday, August 30. Virat ready for Asia Cup “I love playing ODI cricket. I think for me, ODI cricket is probably the one format that tests your game completely. Your technique, composure, patience, playing the situation, and playing differently in different phases of the game. “So, I think it tests you as a batsman completely, and I feel the ODI cricket has always brought the best out of me because I like to embrace that challenge and play according to the situation to help my team win. I have always tried to do that, so yeah, as I said, it gives me an opportunity to test myself regularly, all aspects of my batting, and that’s why I really enjoy playing ODI cricket,” Kohli said on Star Sports. The Indian team is all set to take on arch-rivals Pakistan on Saturday, September 2 in a high-voltage clash while they will take on Nepal on Monday. The 34-year-old has an impressive record in the ODI format where he has amassed 46 hundreds, second-most after Sachin Tendulkar. Virat needs three more tons to go level with the legendary player. ALSO READ | Dhoni groomed them and handed over to Kohli: Ishant Sharma on smooth transition of Indian bowlers Eyes on the big prize Virat will also have his eyes on the ODI World Cup glory where he will be chasing his second title. Virat won the ODI World Cup in 2011 when India went all the way in their backyard. He is likely to remain the only player to make the squad from the 2011 World Cup winning campaign, with Ravichandran Ashwin likely to miss out. Virat had good memories from his last Asia Cup tournament in 2022, despite India getting knocked out in the Super Four stage. He scored his first hundred in international cricket since 2019 when India beat Afghanistan in UAE. The knock proved to be a decisive one as Virat returned to form and was the leading run scorer in the 2022 T20 World Cup. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Virat Kohli gears up for Asia Cup showdown against Pakistan, Nepal - I love playing ODI cricket

Injuries forced Sri Lanka on Tuesday to drop two key players -- Wanindu Hasaranga and Dushmantha Chameera -- from its 15-member squad for the 50-over Asia Cup tournament. Sri Lanka's cricket board said Hasaranga, a spin bowling all-rounder, and pace bowler Chameera were in the original squad, but had to be dropped due to their injuries. Two other lesser-known players -- Dilshan Madushanka and Lahiru Kumara -- were also left out because of injuries, the board said.

The Asia Cup, which starts Wednesday, is a final chance for teams from the region to size each other up before the World Cup in India starting in October. Pakistan and Sri Lanka are co-hosting the six-nation Asia Cup, a hybrid model agreed after India refused to tour Pakistan.

Sri Lanka squad: Dasun Shanaka (Captain), Pathum Nissanaka, Dimuth Karunaratne, Kusal Perera, Kusal Mendis, Charith Asalanka, Dhananjaya de Silva, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Maheesh Theekshana, Dunith Wellalage, Matheesha Pathirana, Kasun Rajitha, Dushan Hemantha, Binura Fernando and Pramod Madushan.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-will-ease-him-into-it-slowly-rahul-dravid-on-jasprit-bumrah-as-pacer-set-for-50-over-return-in-asia-cup-630247">We will ease him into it slowly: Rahul Dravid on Jasprit Bumrah as pacer set for 50-over return in Asia Cup</a>

<h2>Pakistan face Nepal in Asia Cup opener</h2>

Pakistan face Afghanistan in a three-match one-day international series in&nbsp;Sri&nbsp;Lanka&nbsp;starting Tuesday, with skipper Babar Azam seeing it as good preparation for the Asia Cup and World Cup.&nbsp; The first bilateral ODI series between the two teams will be followed by the six-nation Asia Cup, in&nbsp;Sri&nbsp;Lanka&nbsp;and Pakistan, beginning on August 30 and the World Cup in India from October 5. &nbsp;

It is a home series for Afghanistan who cannot stage international cricket in their own country because of security fears. "These three matches are a good opportunity for us to test our players in the match situation," Azam told AFP.

Squads:

Pakistan: Babar Azam (capt), Shadab Khan, Mohammad Rizwan, Fakhar Zaman, Abdullah Shafique, Imam-ul-Haq, Saud Shakeel, Agha Salman, Iftikhar Ahmed, Mohammad Nawaz, Usama Mir, Haris Rauf, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Tayyab Tahir, Mohammad Haris, Faheem Ashraf, Mohammad Wasim&nbsp;

Afghanistan: Hashmatullah Shahidi (capt), Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Ikram Alikhil, Ibrahim Zadran, Riaz Hassan, Rahmat Shah, Najibullah Zadran, Mohammad Nabi, Azmatullah Omarzai, Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmad, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Abdul Rahman, Mohammad Saleem Safi, Wafadar Momand

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Injuries forced Sri Lanka on Tuesday to drop two key players -- Wanindu Hasaranga and Dushmantha Chameera -- from its 15-member squad for the 50-over Asia Cup tournament.

Injuries forced Sri Lanka on Tuesday to drop two key players -- Wanindu Hasaranga and Dushmantha Chameera -- from its 15-member squad for the 50-over Asia Cup tournament. Sri Lanka's cricket board said Hasaranga, a spin bowling all-rounder, and pace bowler Chameera were in the original squad, but had to be dropped due to their injuries. Two other lesser-known players -- Dilshan Madushanka and Lahiru Kumara -- were also left out because of injuries, the board said. The Asia Cup, which starts Wednesday, is a final chance for teams from the region to size each other up before the World Cup in India starting in October. Pakistan and Sri Lanka are co-hosting the six-nation Asia Cup, a hybrid model agreed after India refused to tour Pakistan. Sri Lanka squad: Dasun Shanaka (Captain), Pathum Nissanaka, Dimuth Karunaratne, Kusal Perera, Kusal Mendis, Charith Asalanka, Dhananjaya de Silva, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Maheesh Theekshana, Dunith Wellalage, Matheesha Pathirana, Kasun Rajitha, Dushan Hemantha, Binura Fernando and Pramod Madushan. Also read: We will ease him into it slowly: Rahul Dravid on Jasprit Bumrah as pacer set for 50-over return in Asia Cup Pakistan face Nepal in Asia Cup opener Pakistan face Afghanistan in a three-match one-day international series in Sri Lanka starting Tuesday, with skipper Babar Azam seeing it as good preparation for the Asia Cup and World Cup. The first bilateral ODI series between the two teams will be followed by the six-nation Asia Cup, in Sri Lanka and Pakistan, beginning on August 30 and the World Cup in India from October 5. It is a home series for Afghanistan who cannot stage international cricket in their own country because of security fears. "These three matches are a good opportunity for us to test our players in the match situation," Azam told AFP. Squads: Pakistan: Babar Azam (capt), Shadab Khan, Mohammad Rizwan, Fakhar Zaman, Abdullah Shafique, Imam-ul-Haq, Saud Shakeel, Agha Salman, Iftikhar Ahmed, Mohammad Nawaz, Usama Mir, Haris Rauf, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Tayyab Tahir, Mohammad Haris, Faheem Ashraf, Mohammad Wasim Afghanistan: Hashmatullah Shahidi (capt), Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Ikram Alikhil, Ibrahim Zadran, Riaz Hassan, Rahmat Shah, Najibullah Zadran, Mohammad Nabi, Azmatullah Omarzai, Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmad, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Abdul Rahman, Mohammad Saleem Safi, Wafadar Momand WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Injury-hit Dasun Shanaka-led Sri Lanka name 15-man squad for Asia Cup

Team India is set to kick off their campaign in the forthcoming Asia Cup 2023 edition on September 02 in Pallekele, Sri Lanka. The continental tournament gets underway on August 30 in Multan, Pakistan as the multi-nation competition will be jointly held in Sri Lanka and Pakistan. The Asia Cup is vital for India as it will be followed by the home ODI World Cup 2023 and, hence, it provides a&nbsp;great chance for the Men in Blue to finalise their team combination. The return of KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer, Jasprit Bumrah and Prasidh Krishna has also bolstered India's squad.&nbsp;

On Tuesday (August 30), head coach Rahul Dravid confirmed that Rahul will be missing the first two games in the Asia Cup, as a precaution due to a niggle, whereas Iyer is fully fit. On the other hand, Bumrah will also mark his return to the 50-over format after a long gap. He recently made his international return during the Ireland T20Is and will now prepare for the forthcoming ODI World Cup,&nbsp;starting&nbsp;on October 05 in Ahmedabad, India. Before India's Asia Cup opener, Dravid confirmed that India will 'ease Bumrah into the scheme of things slowly'.

"It is great to have them back. Jasprit is someone who we have missed a lot, over the last two years he has not played too much games," Dravid said while addressing the press conference on Tuesday. "We will ease him into it slowly. It was nice for him to get those overs in the tour of Ireland. We have a whole month to build him up before the World Cup. It gives us more options in the pace bowling department," Dravid added.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/iyer-is-fully-fit-he-has-ticked-all-the-boxes-confirms-head-coach-dravid-ahead-of-asia-cup-opener-630213">Shreyas Iyer is fully fit, confirms head coach Rahul Dravid ahead of India's Asia Cup opener vs Pakistan</a>

Bumrah is extremely vital to India's plans for October-November's home ODI World Cup. His form and fitness will be essential and, hence, will be closely monitored throughout the continental tournament. The 29-year-old made a strong statement in the Ireland T20Is, early this month. Leading the side, he guided a second-stringed India to a 2-0 series win and ended with the Player-of-the-Series award with four scalps in two games, with the finale being a complete washout.

India squad for Asia Cup 2023

Rohit Sharma (C), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Tilak Varma, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammad Siraj, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammad Shami, Prasidh Krishna

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Team India is set to kick off their campaign in the forthcoming Asia Cup 2023 edition on September 02 in Pallekele, Sri Lanka. The continental tournament gets underway on August 30 in Multan, Pakistan as the multi-nation competition will be jointly held in Sri Lanka and Pakistan.

Team India is set to kick off their campaign in the forthcoming Asia Cup 2023 edition on September 02 in Pallekele, Sri Lanka. The continental tournament gets underway on August 30 in Multan, Pakistan as the multi-nation competition will be jointly held in Sri Lanka and Pakistan. The Asia Cup is vital for India as it will be followed by the home ODI World Cup 2023 and, hence, it provides a great chance for the Men in Blue to finalise their team combination. The return of KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer, Jasprit Bumrah and Prasidh Krishna has also bolstered India's squad. On Tuesday (August 30), head coach Rahul Dravid confirmed that Rahul will be missing the first two games in the Asia Cup, as a precaution due to a niggle, whereas Iyer is fully fit. On the other hand, Bumrah will also mark his return to the 50-over format after a long gap. He recently made his international return during the Ireland T20Is and will now prepare for the forthcoming ODI World Cup, starting on October 05 in Ahmedabad, India. Before India's Asia Cup opener, Dravid confirmed that India will 'ease Bumrah into the scheme of things slowly'. "It is great to have them back. Jasprit is someone who we have missed a lot, over the last two years he has not played too much games," Dravid said while addressing the press conference on Tuesday. "We will ease him into it slowly. It was nice for him to get those overs in the tour of Ireland. We have a whole month to build him up before the World Cup. It gives us more options in the pace bowling department," Dravid added. Also read: Shreyas Iyer is fully fit, confirms head coach Rahul Dravid ahead of India's Asia Cup opener vs Pakistan Bumrah is extremely vital to India's plans for October-November's home ODI World Cup. His form and fitness will be essential and, hence, will be closely monitored throughout the continental tournament. The 29-year-old made a strong statement in the Ireland T20Is, early this month. Leading the side, he guided a second-stringed India to a 2-0 series win and ended with the Player-of-the-Series award with four scalps in two games, with the finale being a complete washout. India squad for Asia Cup 2023 Rohit Sharma (C), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Tilak Varma, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammad Siraj, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammad Shami, Prasidh Krishna WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

We will ease him into it slowly: Rahul Dravid on Jasprit Bumrah as pacer set for 50-over return in Asia Cup

Team India head coach Rahul Dravid has confirmed that Shreyas Iyer is fully fit for the Asia Cup 2023 edition, which kicks off on August 30 in Multan, Pakistan. The Men in Blue, under Rohit Sharma, will begin their campaign on September 02 in Pallekele, Sri Lanka. All eyes are on India's middle-order as Rohit &amp; Co. are desperate to finalise their batting line-up ahead of the home ODI World Cup, which gets underway on October 05 in India. Hence, Iyer and Rahul's participation in the continental tournament will be very essential.&nbsp;

<h2>'Shreyas Iyer is fully fit'</h2>

Speaking at the press conference, on Tuesday (August 29), after India's training camp in Alur, Karnataka, Dravid confirmed Iyer's fitness and said, "Shreyas Iyer is fully fit, he has ticked all the boxes - batted and fielded a lot in the camp. The only thing he has missed is the game time. Looked pretty good, and it will be all about giving him more game time, Hopefully, it will come in the Asia Cup. In terms of fitness, he has done really well, has batted really well, ticked all the boxes."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-shines-at-no-3-ex-india-opener-not-in-favour-of-star-batters-demotion-ahead-of-asia-cup-630186">Virat Kohli shines at No. 3: Ex-India opener not in favour of star batter's demotion ahead of Asia Cup</a>

However, Dravid made it official that KL Rahul won't feature in India's opening two games of the Asia Cup. "Both him (KL Rahul) and Shreyas are in the same boat. Slightly cautious approach with KL (due to a niggle, unrelated to his original injury). We are hoping he will only miss the first two games and will be available for the latter part of the tour," added Dravid.

India are placed in Pool A comprising Pakistan and Nepal. The top two teams from both groups -- Group B comprises Sri Lanka, Afghanistan and Bangladesh -- will proceed to the Super Four before the summit clash takes place on September 17. The continental tournament, being jointly held in Sri Lanka and Pakistan, is vital for India as they gear up for the home ODI World Cup, which kicks off on October 05, and, thus, they will be adamant about fixing their middle-order issues. It remains an area of concern for the Men in Blue given Rahul and Iyer's lengthy injury breaks.&nbsp;

India squad for Asia Cup 2023

Rohit Sharma (C), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Tilak Varma, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammad Siraj, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammad Shami, Prasidh Krishna

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Team India head coach Rahul Dravid has confirmed that Shreyas Iyer is fully fit for the Asia Cup 2023 edition, which kicks off on August 30 in Multan, Pakistan. The Men in Blue, under Rohit Sharma, will begin their campaign on September 02 in Pallekele, Sri Lanka.

Team India head coach Rahul Dravid has confirmed that Shreyas Iyer is fully fit for the Asia Cup 2023 edition, which kicks off on August 30 in Multan, Pakistan. The Men in Blue, under Rohit Sharma, will begin their campaign on September 02 in Pallekele, Sri Lanka. All eyes are on India's middle-order as Rohit & Co. are desperate to finalise their batting line-up ahead of the home ODI World Cup, which gets underway on October 05 in India. Hence, Iyer and Rahul's participation in the continental tournament will be very essential. 'Shreyas Iyer is fully fit' Speaking at the press conference, on Tuesday (August 29), after India's training camp in Alur, Karnataka, Dravid confirmed Iyer's fitness and said, "Shreyas Iyer is fully fit, he has ticked all the boxes - batted and fielded a lot in the camp. The only thing he has missed is the game time. Looked pretty good, and it will be all about giving him more game time, Hopefully, it will come in the Asia Cup. In terms of fitness, he has done really well, has batted really well, ticked all the boxes." Also read: Virat Kohli shines at No. 3: Ex-India opener not in favour of star batter's demotion ahead of Asia Cup However, Dravid made it official that KL Rahul won't feature in India's opening two games of the Asia Cup. "Both him (KL Rahul) and Shreyas are in the same boat. Slightly cautious approach with KL (due to a niggle, unrelated to his original injury). We are hoping he will only miss the first two games and will be available for the latter part of the tour," added Dravid. India are placed in Pool A comprising Pakistan and Nepal. The top two teams from both groups -- Group B comprises Sri Lanka, Afghanistan and Bangladesh -- will proceed to the Super Four before the summit clash takes place on September 17. The continental tournament, being jointly held in Sri Lanka and Pakistan, is vital for India as they gear up for the home ODI World Cup, which kicks off on October 05, and, thus, they will be adamant about fixing their middle-order issues. It remains an area of concern for the Men in Blue given Rahul and Iyer's lengthy injury breaks. India squad for Asia Cup 2023 Rohit Sharma (C), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Tilak Varma, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammad Siraj, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammad Shami, Prasidh Krishna WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Shreyas Iyer is fully fit, confirms head coach Rahul Dravid ahead of India's Asia Cup opener vs Pakistan

India wicketkeeper-batsman KL Rahul, who returned to the Asia Cup squad after recovering from an&nbsp;injury, has been ruled out of the first two matches of the regional tournament. While announcing the squad, selection committee head Ajit Agarkar had said that Rahul is not completely fit and the same was confirmed by coach Rahul Dravid after wrapping up the training camp at NCA, Bengaluru.

"The NCA will be looking after him for the next few days while we are travelling. We will reassess on the 4th (September) and take it from there. But signs are looking good. He will be unavailable for the first two games," Dravid said.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) also tweeted the same, confirming Rahul's exclusion from the group stage of the Asia Cup.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-shines-at-no-3-ex-india-opener-not-in-favour-of-star-batters-demotion-ahead-of-asia-cup-630186">Virat Kohli shines at No. 3: Ex-India opener not in favour of star batter's demotion ahead of Asia Cup</a>

"KL Rahul is progressing really well but will not be available for India’s first two matches – against Pakistan and Nepal – of the Asia Cup Head Coach Rahul Dravid,” read the BCCI tweet.

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KL Rahul is progressing really well but will not be available for India’s first two matches – against Pakistan and Nepal – of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AsiaCup2023?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AsiaCup2023</a>: Head Coach Rahul Dravid<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a>
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Ishan Kishan will be the replacement wicketkeeper-batter for the first two games, that is, against Pakistan and Nepal. Shall India qualify for the next round, of which there are very high chances, Rahul then would be available to play from the knockout stage onwards.

The regional tournament, which is being played in a 50-over format as a precursor to the World Cup, will kick off on August 30 when Pakistan take on Sri Lanka. India start their campaign against Pakistan on September 2 in Kandy, Sri Lanka. They play Nepal a couple of days after the Pakistan match, on September 4 in Kandy only.

India are also due to announce their provisional squad for the ICC ODI World Cup. The deadline for naming the 15-man squad is September 5 and almost the same set of players, more or less, are expected to make it to the ODI World Cup squad as well. The quadrennial event starts October 5 in India.

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India wicketkeeper-batsman KL Rahul, who returned to the Asia Cup squad after recovering from an injury, has been ruled out of the first two matches of the regional tournament.

India wicketkeeper-batsman KL Rahul, who returned to the Asia Cup squad after recovering from an injury, has been ruled out of the first two matches of the regional tournament. While announcing the squad, selection committee head Ajit Agarkar had said that Rahul is not completely fit and the same was confirmed by coach Rahul Dravid after wrapping up the training camp at NCA, Bengaluru. "The NCA will be looking after him for the next few days while we are travelling. We will reassess on the 4th (September) and take it from there. But signs are looking good. He will be unavailable for the first two games," Dravid said. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) also tweeted the same, confirming Rahul's exclusion from the group stage of the Asia Cup. Also Read: Virat Kohli shines at No. 3: Ex-India opener not in favour of star batter's demotion ahead of Asia Cup "KL Rahul is progressing really well but will not be available for India’s first two matches – against Pakistan and Nepal – of the Asia Cup Head Coach Rahul Dravid,” read the BCCI tweet. UPDATE KL Rahul is progressing really well but will not be available for India’s first two matches – against Pakistan and Nepal – of the #AsiaCup2023: Head Coach Rahul Dravid#TeamIndia — BCCI (@BCCI) August 29, 2023 × Ishan Kishan will be the replacement wicketkeeper-batter for the first two games, that is, against Pakistan and Nepal. Shall India qualify for the next round, of which there are very high chances, Rahul then would be available to play from the knockout stage onwards. The regional tournament, which is being played in a 50-over format as a precursor to the World Cup, will kick off on August 30 when Pakistan take on Sri Lanka. India start their campaign against Pakistan on September 2 in Kandy, Sri Lanka. They play Nepal a couple of days after the Pakistan match, on September 4 in Kandy only. India are also due to announce their provisional squad for the ICC ODI World Cup. The deadline for naming the 15-man squad is September 5 and almost the same set of players, more or less, are expected to make it to the ODI World Cup squad as well. The quadrennial event starts October 5 in India. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Asia Cup: KL Rahul out of first two games against Pakistan and Nepal, confirms coach Rahul Dravid

Virat Kohli is set to feature in his fourth ODI World Cup when the upcoming 2023 edition kicks off on October 5 in India. At 34, Kohli will leave no stone unturned to help India end their ten-year-long ICC title drought and win the 50-over showpiece event. It is to be noted that India last won the ODI World Cup when the ICC event was co-hosted by India, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. Thus, the home side will be eager to replicate their 2011 heroics. Kohli, who was part of the MS Dhoni-led victorious side in 2011, will aim to bring his experience into play and help Rohit Sharma and Co.

Ahead of the Asia Cup, which starts on August 30 (Wednesday), and will soon be followed by the CWC 2023, Kohli recalled the memories from the 2011 edition and claimed that winning the 50-over championship is his career's highlight.&nbsp;

<h2>'It was stuff from dreams'</h2>

In an event in Bengaluru, Kohli was quoted as saying by PTI, "My career highlight is obviously winning the World Cup in 2011. I was 23 at the time, and I probably didn't understand the magnitude of it. But now at 34, and has played many World Cups, which we haven't been able to win, So, I understand the emotions of all the senior players (in 2011)."

"All the more for Sachin Tendulkar, as it was his last World Cup. He had already played many World Cups by then and to win it in Mumbai, his hometown, was very special for him. I mean, it was stuff from dreams," the former captain opined.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-is-where-he-becomes-so-valuable-manjrekar-on-virat-kohli-ahead-of-indias-asia-cup-cwc-23-campaigns-630020">This is where he becomes so valuable: Manjrekar on Virat Kohli ahead of India's Asia Cup, CWC '23 campaigns</a>

Recalling his entire experience, Kohli said, "I remember the amount of pressure there was on all the players when we were travelling. Thankfully, there was no social media back then. It would have been a nightmare, honestly. But through the airports, it was always just one thing -- we need to win the Cup."

Kohli had a decent run in his first-ever World Cup in 2011. He ended with 282 runs -- including a century and a vital fifty -- and made a crucial 34 in the final where India beat Sri Lanka by six wickets on April 2 at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. Back then, Dhoni &amp; Co. beat teams such as Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Australia, etc. to win the coveted title for the second time in Indian cricket's history.

Talking about the CWC '23 edition, Rohit-led India will open their campaign on October 08 in Chennai where they face Australia. They will go hard for their third 50-over mega title and Kohli will be desperate to lead the batting department with aplomb. The 34-year-old, with over 25,000 international runs in 501 games, along with 76 hundreds, will be the go-to batter for the Men in Blue.

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Virat Kohli is set to feature in his fourth ODI World Cup when the upcoming 2023 edition kicks off on October 5 in India. At 34, Kohli will leave no stone unturned to help India end their ten-year-long ICC title drought and win the 50-over showpiece event.

Virat Kohli is set to feature in his fourth ODI World Cup when the upcoming 2023 edition kicks off on October 5 in India. At 34, Kohli will leave no stone unturned to help India end their ten-year-long ICC title drought and win the 50-over showpiece event. It is to be noted that India last won the ODI World Cup when the ICC event was co-hosted by India, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. Thus, the home side will be eager to replicate their 2011 heroics. Kohli, who was part of the MS Dhoni-led victorious side in 2011, will aim to bring his experience into play and help Rohit Sharma and Co. Ahead of the Asia Cup, which starts on August 30 (Wednesday), and will soon be followed by the CWC 2023, Kohli recalled the memories from the 2011 edition and claimed that winning the 50-over championship is his career's highlight. 'It was stuff from dreams' In an event in Bengaluru, Kohli was quoted as saying by PTI, "My career highlight is obviously winning the World Cup in 2011. I was 23 at the time, and I probably didn't understand the magnitude of it. But now at 34, and has played many World Cups, which we haven't been able to win, So, I understand the emotions of all the senior players (in 2011)." "All the more for Sachin Tendulkar, as it was his last World Cup. He had already played many World Cups by then and to win it in Mumbai, his hometown, was very special for him. I mean, it was stuff from dreams," the former captain opined. Also read: This is where he becomes so valuable: Manjrekar on Virat Kohli ahead of India's Asia Cup, CWC '23 campaigns Recalling his entire experience, Kohli said, "I remember the amount of pressure there was on all the players when we were travelling. Thankfully, there was no social media back then. It would have been a nightmare, honestly. But through the airports, it was always just one thing -- we need to win the Cup." Kohli had a decent run in his first-ever World Cup in 2011. He ended with 282 runs -- including a century and a vital fifty -- and made a crucial 34 in the final where India beat Sri Lanka by six wickets on April 2 at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. Back then, Dhoni & Co. beat teams such as Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Australia, etc. to win the coveted title for the second time in Indian cricket's history. Talking about the CWC '23 edition, Rohit-led India will open their campaign on October 08 in Chennai where they face Australia. They will go hard for their third 50-over mega title and Kohli will be desperate to lead the batting department with aplomb. The 34-year-old, with over 25,000 international runs in 501 games, along with 76 hundreds, will be the go-to batter for the Men in Blue. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

My career highlight is winning the 2011 ODI World Cup, says Virat Kohli ahead of Asia Cup, CWC '23

Team India, under Rohit Sharma, is set to kick off their Asia Cup 2023 campaign on September 02 when they face arch-rivals Pakistan in Pallekele, Sri Lanka. The continental tournament gets underway on Wednesday (August 30) with co-hosts Pakistan locking horns with Nepal in Multan. After the Asia Cup, to be held in the ODI format, the 50-over World Cup will take place, in India, starting on October 05.

Prior to the Asia Cup and CWC '23, former Indian cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar heaped praise on Virat Kohli and pointed out where he becomes 'valuable' for Rohit &amp; Co.&nbsp;

<h2>'I expect Virat to have a great World Cup'</h2>

Speaking to&nbsp;Star Sports&nbsp;in the lead-up to the 50-over Asia Cup, Manjrekar was optimistic of Kohli having a great run in the upcoming World Cup.&nbsp;"Great player who has had a great journey. But people change, players change and skills change as well. At this stage, you see that Rohit Sharma, his greatest skill and impact is visible in Test cricket. I expect Virat to have a great World Cup," Manjrekar mentioned.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohlis-141-in-adelaide-was-a-masterpiece-ian-chappell-heaps-praise-on-former-indian-captain-630002">'Virat Kohli's 141 in Adelaide was a masterpiece': Ian Chappell heaps praise on former Indian captain</a>

Further, Manjrekar added, "With his current state of play, you would think that 50-overs is just the right format for him. On the big stage, he has done it for India on many occasions. You get excited about many young and rising players. But on a big night, we need a player, who has been there, done that. That is where Virat becomes so valuable for India."

To back Manjrekar's claims, the two-time ODI world champions India will bank on Kohli's experience as they aim to lift the forthcoming ICC event, to be held on home soil. Back in the 2011 edition, co-hosted by India, Bangladesh and eventual runners-up Sri Lanka, the MS Dhoni-led Men in Blue ended as the champions with a young Kohli part of the historic squad.&nbsp;

Thus, Kohli's experience of having won an ODI World Cup will be essential not only for captain -- who was snubbed for the 2011 edition -- but for the entire Indian unit. At present, the 34-year-old will hope for a miraculous campaign in the continental tournament, which kicks off on Wednesday.&nbsp;

A good run in the Asia Cup will keep Kohli in terrific mindset before the World Cup commences.

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Team India, under Rohit Sharma, is set to kick off their Asia Cup 2023 campaign on September 02 when they face arch-rivals Pakistan in Pallekele, Sri Lanka. The continental tournament gets underway on Wednesday (August 30) with co-hosts Pakistan locking horns with Nepal in Multan.

Team India, under Rohit Sharma, is set to kick off their Asia Cup 2023 campaign on September 02 when they face arch-rivals Pakistan in Pallekele, Sri Lanka. The continental tournament gets underway on Wednesday (August 30) with co-hosts Pakistan locking horns with Nepal in Multan. After the Asia Cup, to be held in the ODI format, the 50-over World Cup will take place, in India, starting on October 05. Prior to the Asia Cup and CWC '23, former Indian cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar heaped praise on Virat Kohli and pointed out where he becomes 'valuable' for Rohit & Co. 'I expect Virat to have a great World Cup' Speaking to Star Sports in the lead-up to the 50-over Asia Cup, Manjrekar was optimistic of Kohli having a great run in the upcoming World Cup. "Great player who has had a great journey. But people change, players change and skills change as well. At this stage, you see that Rohit Sharma, his greatest skill and impact is visible in Test cricket. I expect Virat to have a great World Cup," Manjrekar mentioned. Also read: 'Virat Kohli's 141 in Adelaide was a masterpiece': Ian Chappell heaps praise on former Indian captain Further, Manjrekar added, "With his current state of play, you would think that 50-overs is just the right format for him. On the big stage, he has done it for India on many occasions. You get excited about many young and rising players. But on a big night, we need a player, who has been there, done that. That is where Virat becomes so valuable for India." To back Manjrekar's claims, the two-time ODI world champions India will bank on Kohli's experience as they aim to lift the forthcoming ICC event, to be held on home soil. Back in the 2011 edition, co-hosted by India, Bangladesh and eventual runners-up Sri Lanka, the MS Dhoni-led Men in Blue ended as the champions with a young Kohli part of the historic squad. Thus, Kohli's experience of having won an ODI World Cup will be essential not only for captain -- who was snubbed for the 2011 edition -- but for the entire Indian unit. At present, the 34-year-old will hope for a miraculous campaign in the continental tournament, which kicks off on Wednesday. A good run in the Asia Cup will keep Kohli in terrific mindset before the World Cup commences. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

This is where he becomes so valuable: Manjrekar on Virat Kohli ahead of India's Asia Cup, CWC '23 campaigns

Virat Kohli has had a glorious run in international cricket. He recently completed 15 years at the highest level, where he has already amassed over 25,000 runs and his century tally stands at 76, next only to Sachin Tendulkar (100). Over the years, the former Indian captain has played innumerable knocks which can be termed memorable.&nbsp;

Kohli's rise was evident after India's 2011 ODI World Cup win and even when he has not been at his best, he has continued to pile vital runs. Recently, former Australian captain Ian Chappell recalled Kohli's initial big success -- which came during India's tour of Australia in 2011/12 -- and termed his 141, in the Adelaide Test, as a masterclass.

<h2>'With the evergreen Tendulkar still plying his trade, Kohli showed glimpses of his talent'</h2>

"In 2012, with the evergreen Tendulkar still plying his trade, Kohli showed glimpses of his talent, also at the WACA ground, with a promising 44 and 75. His skilful batting against a good Australian pace attack hinted at his talent, and when he then followed it with an excellent century in Adelaide, while others around him failed, it was widely accepted he would be the next outstanding Indian batter," Chappell wrote for&nbsp;ESPNCricinfo.

"Appropriately, two years later at Adelaide Oval again, the newly appointed India captain scored two sublime centuries to almost snatch a memorable victory for his side. Kohli's second-innings 141, in particular, on a pitch that encouraged spin, was a masterpiece and with a little more help from his team-mates would have resulted in a spectacular Indian victory," the former cricketer further asserted.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/the-best-thing-is-indian-captain-rohit-sharma-recalls-yuvraj-singhs-words-after-cwc-11-snub-629950">'The best thing is....': Indian captain Rohit Sharma recalls Yuvraj Singh's words after CWC '11 snub</a>

Chappell added, "Despite Kohli's amazing record and his strong leadership, it was that second-innings century in Adelaide in 2014 that cemented his undoubted skill. He hit 16 fours and one six and scored at the superb rate of 80 runs per 100 balls on a pitch that suited Nathan Lyon's sharp-turning off-breaks. Kohli's ability to successfully play the cover drive - the toughest shot for a right-hander on a turning pitch - was exceptional and severely frustrated Australia's charge for victory."

The Adelaide Test was the series opener of the 2014-15 Border-Gavaskar Trophy between India and Australia. Back then, the then Indian Test captain MS Dhoni was injured and, hence, Kohli led the side for the first time in the purest format. He led from the front with twin centuries in the match -- 115 and 141 during a 364-run chase -- but couldn't guide India to a stunning victory.&nbsp;

The two memorable knocks consolidated Kohli's Test spot and he went on to lead India in 68 Tests, winning 40 of them (most by any Indian). To date, he remains India's go-to-batter across formats -- despite not being in the T20I scheme of things since last year's World Cup -- and will hold the key for the Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue in the upcoming Asia Cup (from August 30) and the home ODI World Cup, starting on October 05.

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Virat Kohli has had a glorious run in international cricket. He recently completed 15 years at the highest level, where he has already amassed over 25,000 runs and his century tally stands at 76, next only to Sachin Tendulkar (100).

Virat Kohli has had a glorious run in international cricket. He recently completed 15 years at the highest level, where he has already amassed over 25,000 runs and his century tally stands at 76, next only to Sachin Tendulkar (100). Over the years, the former Indian captain has played innumerable knocks which can be termed memorable. Kohli's rise was evident after India's 2011 ODI World Cup win and even when he has not been at his best, he has continued to pile vital runs. Recently, former Australian captain Ian Chappell recalled Kohli's initial big success -- which came during India's tour of Australia in 2011/12 -- and termed his 141, in the Adelaide Test, as a masterclass. 'With the evergreen Tendulkar still plying his trade, Kohli showed glimpses of his talent' "In 2012, with the evergreen Tendulkar still plying his trade, Kohli showed glimpses of his talent, also at the WACA ground, with a promising 44 and 75. His skilful batting against a good Australian pace attack hinted at his talent, and when he then followed it with an excellent century in Adelaide, while others around him failed, it was widely accepted he would be the next outstanding Indian batter," Chappell wrote for ESPNCricinfo. "Appropriately, two years later at Adelaide Oval again, the newly appointed India captain scored two sublime centuries to almost snatch a memorable victory for his side. Kohli's second-innings 141, in particular, on a pitch that encouraged spin, was a masterpiece and with a little more help from his team-mates would have resulted in a spectacular Indian victory," the former cricketer further asserted. Also read: 'The best thing is....': Indian captain Rohit Sharma recalls Yuvraj Singh's words after CWC '11 snub Chappell added, "Despite Kohli's amazing record and his strong leadership, it was that second-innings century in Adelaide in 2014 that cemented his undoubted skill. He hit 16 fours and one six and scored at the superb rate of 80 runs per 100 balls on a pitch that suited Nathan Lyon's sharp-turning off-breaks. Kohli's ability to successfully play the cover drive - the toughest shot for a right-hander on a turning pitch - was exceptional and severely frustrated Australia's charge for victory." The Adelaide Test was the series opener of the 2014-15 Border-Gavaskar Trophy between India and Australia. Back then, the then Indian Test captain MS Dhoni was injured and, hence, Kohli led the side for the first time in the purest format. He led from the front with twin centuries in the match -- 115 and 141 during a 364-run chase -- but couldn't guide India to a stunning victory. The two memorable knocks consolidated Kohli's Test spot and he went on to lead India in 68 Tests, winning 40 of them (most by any Indian). To date, he remains India's go-to-batter across formats -- despite not being in the T20I scheme of things since last year's World Cup -- and will hold the key for the Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue in the upcoming Asia Cup (from August 30) and the home ODI World Cup, starting on October 05. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Virat Kohli's 141 in Adelaide was a masterpiece': Ian Chappell heaps praise on former Indian captain

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