Pakistan skipper Babar Azam recently offered fans some insight into how they had planned to outperform India in their recent Asia Cup Group A encounter. He asserted that they had planned on taking the game as deep as possible.&nbsp;

Although The Shaheens were handed a loss at the Dubai International Stadium on Sunday, Azam asserted that he was extremely satisfied with his team's performance&nbsp;and praised&nbsp;the players.&nbsp;He went on to single out the likes of Naseem Shah and&nbsp;Mohammad Nawaz for their exploits in bowling.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-panel-level-fine-on-india-and-pakistan-for-slow-over-rate-in-asia-cup-encounter-511815" hreflang="en">ICC Panel level fine on India and Pakistan for slow over-rate in Asia Cup encounter</a>

The teenage bowling sensation Naseem Shah recorded an extremely successful T20I debut in one of the most enthralling matches that the Men in Green could play. Shah was credited with the wickets of ace batsman KL Rahul and veteran Ravindra Jadeja, thoroughly impressing fans with his pace and control.

The Rawalpindi-based Mohammad Nawaz, on the other hand, managed to etch his name in international cricketing folklore as he walked away from the match after having scalped three wickets.

"Our only game plan was to take the game as deep as possible. Naseem Shah bowled very well and took crucial wickets for the team. Unfortunately, we couldn't finish but I think Nawaz should be given credit for performing well in the pressure game.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-fan-tells-hasan-ali-youve-huge-fan-following-in-india-pacer-wins-hearts-with-epic-reply-watch-511795" hreflang="en">Indian fan tells Hasan Ali 'you've huge fan-following in India', pacer wins hearts with epic reply - WATCH</a>

"The shortfall remained with our partnership. The toss doesn't matter, the team's efforts matter. And my team performed very well. It was a big match for Naseem Shah but still, he did very well. It was his confidence, the way he has shown his growth," asserted Azam while in conversation with the media in the post-match press interaction.&nbsp;

In addition, Azam refused to take anything away from the Indians' performance, waxing lyrical about Hardik Pandya, who set himself apart with his awe-inspiring performance as he led the Men in Blue to glory.&nbsp;

Pakistan skipper Babar Azam recently offered fans some insight into how they had planned to outperform India in their recent Asia Cup Group A encounter. He asserted that they had planned on taking the game as deep as possible.

Pakistan skipper Babar Azam recently offered fans some insight into how they had planned to outperform India in their recent Asia Cup Group A encounter. He asserted that they had planned on taking the game as deep as possible. Although The Shaheens were handed a loss at the Dubai International Stadium on Sunday, Azam asserted that he was extremely satisfied with his team's performance and praised the players. He went on to single out the likes of Naseem Shah and Mohammad Nawaz for their exploits in bowling. ALSO READ: ICC Panel level fine on India and Pakistan for slow over-rate in Asia Cup encounter The teenage bowling sensation Naseem Shah recorded an extremely successful T20I debut in one of the most enthralling matches that the Men in Green could play. Shah was credited with the wickets of ace batsman KL Rahul and veteran Ravindra Jadeja, thoroughly impressing fans with his pace and control. The Rawalpindi-based Mohammad Nawaz, on the other hand, managed to etch his name in international cricketing folklore as he walked away from the match after having scalped three wickets. "Our only game plan was to take the game as deep as possible. Naseem Shah bowled very well and took crucial wickets for the team. Unfortunately, we couldn't finish but I think Nawaz should be given credit for performing well in the pressure game. ALSO READ: Indian fan tells Hasan Ali 'you've huge fan-following in India', pacer wins hearts with epic reply - WATCH "The shortfall remained with our partnership. The toss doesn't matter, the team's efforts matter. And my team performed very well. It was a big match for Naseem Shah but still, he did very well. It was his confidence, the way he has shown his growth," asserted Azam while in conversation with the media in the post-match press interaction. In addition, Azam refused to take anything away from the Indians' performance, waxing lyrical about Hardik Pandya, who set himself apart with his awe-inspiring performance as he led the Men in Blue to glory.

Babar Azam reveals Pakistan's gameplan to outclass India, hails new-comer Naseem Shah for performance

New Zealand all-rounder Colin de Grandhomme announced his retirement from international cricket on Wednesday. De Grandhomme, 36, made the decision to bring down the curtains on an impressive international career after discussions this week with New Zealand Cricket — which has agreed to release him from his central contract.

The Zimbabwean-born Kiwi said a range of factors had played a part in his decision, not least his struggles with injury and the increasing competition for places in all three formats.

"I accept that I am not getting any younger and that the training is getting harder, particularly with the injuries. I also have a growing family and am trying to understand what my future looks like post-cricket. All of this has been on my mind over the past few weeks," said the all-rounder in a statement.

"I have been fortunate enough to have had the opportunity to play for the BLACKCAPS since debuting in 2012 and I am proud of my international career — but I feel this is the right time to finish."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-this-is-a-question-out-of-my-book-ravindra-jadeja-on-rishabh-pants-absence-from-pakistan-clash-511703" hreflang="en">WATCH: 'This is a question out of my book' - Jadeja on Pant's omission from India's XI vs Pakistan</a>

De Grandhomme departs the international stage with an impressive record, particularly in the Test arena; his 29 matches realising 1432 runs at 38.70, including centuries against the West Indies and South Africa, and 49 wickets at 32.95 — including six for 41 on debut against Pakistan.

A measure of his influence in the Test environment is that he featured in 18 wins, playing a key role in the BLACKCAPS inaugural ICC World Test Championship campaign, which ended with a victory over India in the final at Southampton.

De Grandhomme also proved valuable in the Kiwi ODI side, in 45 outings scoring 742 runs at a strike rate of 106.15 and taking 30 wickets at 41.00 with the ball, as the side reached a No.1 world ranking, and qualified for the final of the 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup.

In that tournament, he starred with a 47-ball 60 in a pulsating victorious chase against South Africa, scored 64 against Pakistan, and bowled superbly in the final against England, taking one for 25 off his 10 overs.

The powerful all-rounder also played in 41 T20Is, scoring 505 runs at a strike-rate of 138.35 and taking 12 wickets at 38.41 (economy rate of 8.61). De Grandhomme said he had cherished his time playing for the BLACKCAPS and sharing in such a successful time for New Zealand cricket.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rishabh-pant-or-dinesh-karthik-aakash-chopra-shares-his-pick-for-indias-asia-cup-clash-vs-hong-kong-511761" hreflang="en">Rishabh Pant or Dinesh Karthik? Aakash Chopra shares his pick for India's Asia Cup clash vs Hong Kong</a>

"I have loved being part of this team over the past decade and am grateful for the experiences we have shared together. I have made many lasting friendships with teammates, coaching staff, and opponents, and will treasure the memories for the rest of my life."

De Grandhomme said he still retained a desire to play domestic cricket in New Zealand when available and would be discussing that matter with Northern Districts cricket. BLACKCAPS coach Gary Stead said it was sad to see de Grandhomme depart the international scene, but he understood his reasons.

"Colin`s been a hugely influential part of the BLACKCAPS and contributed to some of the team`s greatest achievements. His immense power with the bat and skills with the ball made him a real match winner and an asset to any side," he said.

"Colin`s a great team man and we will certainly miss his character around the dressing room. While it is sad to see him go - we appreciate he is at a stage in his career where he is looking to head in a different direction and we respect that. We wish him all the best with his future and hope to see him featuring on the New Zealand domestic scene when available."

New Zealand all-rounder Colin de Grandhomme announced his retirement from international cricket on Wednesday. De Grandhomme, 36, made the decision to bring down the curtains on an impressive international career after discussions this week with New Zealand Cricket — which has agreed to release him from his central contract.

New Zealand all-rounder Colin de Grandhomme announced his retirement from international cricket on Wednesday. De Grandhomme, 36, made the decision to bring down the curtains on an impressive international career after discussions this week with New Zealand Cricket — which has agreed to release him from his central contract. The Zimbabwean-born Kiwi said a range of factors had played a part in his decision, not least his struggles with injury and the increasing competition for places in all three formats. "I accept that I am not getting any younger and that the training is getting harder, particularly with the injuries. I also have a growing family and am trying to understand what my future looks like post-cricket. All of this has been on my mind over the past few weeks," said the all-rounder in a statement. "I have been fortunate enough to have had the opportunity to play for the BLACKCAPS since debuting in 2012 and I am proud of my international career — but I feel this is the right time to finish." ALSO READ: WATCH: 'This is a question out of my book' - Jadeja on Pant's omission from India's XI vs Pakistan De Grandhomme departs the international stage with an impressive record, particularly in the Test arena; his 29 matches realising 1432 runs at 38.70, including centuries against the West Indies and South Africa, and 49 wickets at 32.95 — including six for 41 on debut against Pakistan. A measure of his influence in the Test environment is that he featured in 18 wins, playing a key role in the BLACKCAPS inaugural ICC World Test Championship campaign, which ended with a victory over India in the final at Southampton. De Grandhomme also proved valuable in the Kiwi ODI side, in 45 outings scoring 742 runs at a strike rate of 106.15 and taking 30 wickets at 41.00 with the ball, as the side reached a No.1 world ranking, and qualified for the final of the 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup. In that tournament, he starred with a 47-ball 60 in a pulsating victorious chase against South Africa, scored 64 against Pakistan, and bowled superbly in the final against England, taking one for 25 off his 10 overs. The powerful all-rounder also played in 41 T20Is, scoring 505 runs at a strike-rate of 138.35 and taking 12 wickets at 38.41 (economy rate of 8.61). De Grandhomme said he had cherished his time playing for the BLACKCAPS and sharing in such a successful time for New Zealand cricket. ALSO READ: Rishabh Pant or Dinesh Karthik? Aakash Chopra shares his pick for India's Asia Cup clash vs Hong Kong "I have loved being part of this team over the past decade and am grateful for the experiences we have shared together. I have made many lasting friendships with teammates, coaching staff, and opponents, and will treasure the memories for the rest of my life." De Grandhomme said he still retained a desire to play domestic cricket in New Zealand when available and would be discussing that matter with Northern Districts cricket. BLACKCAPS coach Gary Stead said it was sad to see de Grandhomme depart the international scene, but he understood his reasons. "Colin`s been a hugely influential part of the BLACKCAPS and contributed to some of the team`s greatest achievements. His immense power with the bat and skills with the ball made him a real match winner and an asset to any side," he said. "Colin`s a great team man and we will certainly miss his character around the dressing room. While it is sad to see him go - we appreciate he is at a stage in his career where he is looking to head in a different direction and we respect that. We wish him all the best with his future and hope to see him featuring on the New Zealand domestic scene when available."

Colin de Grandhomme bows out of international cricket for good

Indian cricket has been on the rise in the post-Independence era. 1983, 2011 ODI World Cup wins, 2007 T20 World Cup triumph, IPL's birth, and women's cricket's rise have led to cricket being the most-preferred sport among countrymen.

India@75: Indian cricket's rise in post-Independence-era

As Virat Kohli gears up for his international comeback and 100th T20I when India face Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2022 edition, here's a look at the former captain's scintillating numbers in the format both as captain and batter.

Virat Kohli's T20I numbers before 100th match during Pakistan clash in Asia Cup

A promising medium-pace swing bowler at one point earmarked for her country's senior team, Mitchel Chivare has been allowed by her husband to start playing again, but some of her former teammates have not been so lucky.... Here's a story of endurance from Domboshava, Harare, Zimbabwe

World of Africa: Zimbabwe's women cricketers focus on future

After defeating arch-rivals Pakistan by five wickets in their opening encounter on Sunday (August 28), India will take on Hong Kong in their next match on Wednesday. The Men in Blue will be looking to continue their winning run in the tournament after a brilliant start against Pakistan.

Ahead of their all-important clash against India, Hong Kong captain&nbsp;Nizakat Khan has backed Virat Kohli to bounce back to form and has admitted he is a huge fan of the former India skipper. Kohli has endured a lean patch for India across formats for a while now but looked in decent touch in the game against Pakistan.

Khan mentioned how Kohli scored some crucial runs against Pakistan on Sunday and said he really wants to see the superstar batter score big runs in the tournament. Kohli played some brilliant strokes en route to his 35 off 34 balls laced with three fours and one six against Pakistan.

"I am a big fan of Virat Kohli, he played well against Pakistan, we really want him to come back in form &amp; score lots of runs," Khan told&nbsp;News 24 Sports.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hardik-pandya-has-become-like-ms-dhoni-should-lead-india-in-future-harbhajan-singh-511567">Hardik Pandya has become like MS Dhoni, should lead India in future: Harbhajan Singh</a>

In their last meeting against India at the Asia Cup in 2018, Hong Kong produced an epic fight to nearly pull off an upset against Rohit Sharma's men. Hong Kong restricted India to 285/7 in 50 overs, bowling first before openers Khan (92) and Anshuman Rath (73) took the Indian bowlers to the cleaners.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/those-shots-were-not-necessary-sunil-gavaskar-criticises-kohli-rohits-performance-against-pakistan-511494">'Those shots were not necessary': Sunil Gavaskar criticises Kohli, Rohit's performance against Pakistan</a>

The duo posted a massive 174-run stand for the first wicket and took Hong Kong close to victory. However, they ended up falling short by 26 runs in the end to lose the game. Khan is expecting a similar performance from the team once again this time around.

"We lost by just 20 (26) runs when we last faced India at the Asia Cup in 2018. Anything can happen in a T20 game. You don't when a bowler can deliver a good spell, or a batter hits some quick runs in a couple of overs," said Khan.

"We have seen in the past too how even the top sides have lost against associate teams. We will go with positive body language and will stick to our process," he added.

After defeating arch-rivals Pakistan by five wickets in their opening encounter on Sunday (August 28), India will take on Hong Kong in their next match on Wednesday.

After defeating arch-rivals Pakistan by five wickets in their opening encounter on Sunday (August 28), India will take on Hong Kong in their next match on Wednesday. The Men in Blue will be looking to continue their winning run in the tournament after a brilliant start against Pakistan. Ahead of their all-important clash against India, Hong Kong captain Nizakat Khan has backed Virat Kohli to bounce back to form and has admitted he is a huge fan of the former India skipper. Kohli has endured a lean patch for India across formats for a while now but looked in decent touch in the game against Pakistan. Khan mentioned how Kohli scored some crucial runs against Pakistan on Sunday and said he really wants to see the superstar batter score big runs in the tournament. Kohli played some brilliant strokes en route to his 35 off 34 balls laced with three fours and one six against Pakistan. "I am a big fan of Virat Kohli, he played well against Pakistan, we really want him to come back in form & score lots of runs," Khan told News 24 Sports. Also Read: Hardik Pandya has become like MS Dhoni, should lead India in future: Harbhajan Singh In their last meeting against India at the Asia Cup in 2018, Hong Kong produced an epic fight to nearly pull off an upset against Rohit Sharma's men. Hong Kong restricted India to 285/7 in 50 overs, bowling first before openers Khan (92) and Anshuman Rath (73) took the Indian bowlers to the cleaners. Also Read: 'Those shots were not necessary': Sunil Gavaskar criticises Kohli, Rohit's performance against Pakistan The duo posted a massive 174-run stand for the first wicket and took Hong Kong close to victory. However, they ended up falling short by 26 runs in the end to lose the game. Khan is expecting a similar performance from the team once again this time around. "We lost by just 20 (26) runs when we last faced India at the Asia Cup in 2018. Anything can happen in a T20 game. You don't when a bowler can deliver a good spell, or a batter hits some quick runs in a couple of overs," said Khan. "We have seen in the past too how even the top sides have lost against associate teams. We will go with positive body language and will stick to our process," he added.

'I am a big fan': Hong Kong captain Nizakat Khan wants Virat Kohli to bounce back to form in Asia Cup 2022

Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh lauded Hardik Pandya after his brilliant all-round show against Pakistan in Asia Cup 2022 on Sunday. Pandya shone with the bat and ball as India defeated their arch-rivals by five wickets to get off to a winning start in the tournament.

Pandya picked up a three-wicket haul to help India bundle out Pakistan for a moderate total of 147 runs before playing a match-winning knock of unbeaten 33 off just 17 balls to take India home in a thrilling run-chase that went down the wire. While he was aggressive with the ball, Pandya showed great composure with the bat to pull off a successful finish for India.

Heaping praise on the star all-rounder for his match-winning heroics, Harbhajan likened him to the legendary MS Dhoni and backed him to take over as India's captain in the future. Displaying traits of Dhoni in the final over of India's run chase, Hardik was calm under pressure with six runs required off the last three balls.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-have-learnt-from-ms-dhoni-hardik-pandya-credits-former-india-skipper-after-his-stunning-finish-vs-pakistan-511271">I have learnt from MS Dhoni: Hardik credits former India skipper after his stunning finish vs Pakistan</a>

He nonchalantly slammed a flat six towards the mid-wicket region off the 4th delivery from Mohammad Nawaz to seal a five-wicket win for India. This is not the first time Hardik had earned comparisons with the former India captain as he had been compared to Dhoni after leading Gujarat Titans to their maiden IPL title earlier this year.

"He should become captain, I think he will become captain. He has shown a different avatar in the recent past. He has become like an MS Dhoni, he is very calm and composed. He is batting very well and he trusts his ability very much," Harbhajan Singh said on SportsTak.

Hardik, who made his comeback in IPL 2022 earlier this year after taking a break due to his back issues, has been unstoppable ever since. While he has been batting more sensibly and taking fewer risks, his bowling has improved drastically.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sanjay-manjrekar-lauds-unreal-hardik-pandya-after-his-all-round-blitz-vs-pakistan-in-asia-cup-511432">Sanjay Manjrekar lauds 'unreal' Hardik Pandya after his all-round blitz vs Pakistan in Asia Cup</a>

Lauding him for his hard work and commitment, Harbhajan said there is a different aura to Hardik the batter now as he oozes confidence and believes he can win matches for India.

"When he goes out to bat, there is a different level of swag. He has worked so hard and returned to action that he knows he will be able to do the job and win games for India," Harbhajan said.

"I do see him becoming captain of India. The way he showcased his temperament during the match against Pakistan, and during the IPL as well, was brilliant. I think he has got all the capabilities to be the national team's captain going forward," he added.

Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh lauded Hardik Pandya after his brilliant all-round show against Pakistan in Asia Cup 2022 on Sunday. Pandya shone with the bat and ball as India defeated their arch-rivals by five wickets to get off to a winning start in the tournament.

Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh lauded Hardik Pandya after his brilliant all-round show against Pakistan in Asia Cup 2022 on Sunday. Pandya shone with the bat and ball as India defeated their arch-rivals by five wickets to get off to a winning start in the tournament. Pandya picked up a three-wicket haul to help India bundle out Pakistan for a moderate total of 147 runs before playing a match-winning knock of unbeaten 33 off just 17 balls to take India home in a thrilling run-chase that went down the wire. While he was aggressive with the ball, Pandya showed great composure with the bat to pull off a successful finish for India. Heaping praise on the star all-rounder for his match-winning heroics, Harbhajan likened him to the legendary MS Dhoni and backed him to take over as India's captain in the future. Displaying traits of Dhoni in the final over of India's run chase, Hardik was calm under pressure with six runs required off the last three balls. Also Read: I have learnt from MS Dhoni: Hardik credits former India skipper after his stunning finish vs Pakistan He nonchalantly slammed a flat six towards the mid-wicket region off the 4th delivery from Mohammad Nawaz to seal a five-wicket win for India. This is not the first time Hardik had earned comparisons with the former India captain as he had been compared to Dhoni after leading Gujarat Titans to their maiden IPL title earlier this year. "He should become captain, I think he will become captain. He has shown a different avatar in the recent past. He has become like an MS Dhoni, he is very calm and composed. He is batting very well and he trusts his ability very much," Harbhajan Singh said on SportsTak. Hardik, who made his comeback in IPL 2022 earlier this year after taking a break due to his back issues, has been unstoppable ever since. While he has been batting more sensibly and taking fewer risks, his bowling has improved drastically. Also Read: Sanjay Manjrekar lauds 'unreal' Hardik Pandya after his all-round blitz vs Pakistan in Asia Cup Lauding him for his hard work and commitment, Harbhajan said there is a different aura to Hardik the batter now as he oozes confidence and believes he can win matches for India. "When he goes out to bat, there is a different level of swag. He has worked so hard and returned to action that he knows he will be able to do the job and win games for India," Harbhajan said. "I do see him becoming captain of India. The way he showcased his temperament during the match against Pakistan, and during the IPL as well, was brilliant. I think he has got all the capabilities to be the national team's captain going forward," he added.

Hardik Pandya has become like MS Dhoni, should lead India in future: Harbhajan Singh

ZEE Entertainment Enterprises Ltd. (ZEE) and Disney Star, today announced that they have entered into a strategic licensing agreement by way of which Disney Star will license the television broadcasting rights of the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) Men’s and Under 19 (U-19) global events for a period of four years, to ZEE. Disney Star will continue to be the exclusive home for streaming of all ICC tournaments through its digital platform - Disney+ Hotstar.

ICC has in-principle approved this arrangement. This association enables ZEE to be the exclusive television rights holder of ICC men’s events, including the coveted ICC Men’s T20 World Cup (2024, 2026), ICC Men’s Champions Trophy (2025), and the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup (2027) along with key ICC U-19 events.

Speaking about the strategic development, Mr. Punit Goenka, MD &amp; CEO, ZEE Entertainment Enterprises Ltd. said, “This is a first-of-its-kind partnership in the Indian media &amp; entertainment landscape, and this association with Disney Star reflects our sharp, strategic vision for the sports business in India. As a one-stop television destination for ICC men’s cricket events until 2027, ZEE will leverage the strength of its network to offer a compelling experience for its viewers and a great return on investment for its advertisers. Long-term profitability and value-generation continue to be our areas of focus across the business, and we will always evaluate all the necessary steps that will enable us to make sports a compelling value proposition for the Company. We look forward to working with ICC and Disney Star, to enable this strategic offering for our television viewers in India.”

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/a-look-at-winners-of-last-eight-editions-of-asia-cup-508930">A look at winners of last eight editions of Asia Cup</a>

Mr. K Madhavan, Country Manager &amp; President, Disney Star said “By securing the IPL television broadcast rights for 2023-27 and now opting to retain only the digital rights for ICC tournaments for 2024-27, we have in place a balanced and robust cricket offering for our audiences across linear and digital. Over the years, Disney Star has strengthened the appeal of international cricket in India, enabling it to reach diverse age groups and cultural demographics across all parts of the country. As India’s leading media house, we will continue to do so with our strong portfolio of cricket properties across television and digital.”

For over three decades, ZEE has been a leading entertainment company, continually strengthening its position across markets by identifying newer avenues for growth and delivering value to stakeholders across the board. With its strong connect and reach across the country, ZEE reaffirms its commitment of presenting thrilling international 
cricket action to viewers and elevating the experience and engagement to unprecedented heights.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/explained-how-india-pakistan-can-square-off-again-in-super-4-round-at-asia-cup-511386">Explained: How India-Pakistan can square off again in Super 4 round at Asia Cup</a>

With the ICC digital rights secured for the next four years, Disney Star retains its position as the Home of Sports in India. Its current portfolio also includes the television rights for IPL (2023-27), television and digital rights for Cricket Australia (2023-2030), television and digital BCCI rights (2023) and television and digital rights for Cricket 
South Africa (end of 2023-2024).

In addition to cricket, it also offers other major sports properties on its platforms including Pro Kabaddi League, Indian Super League, the Wimbledon Championship and the English Premier League.

ZEE Entertainment Enterprises Ltd. (ZEE) and Disney Star, today announced that they have entered into a strategic licensing agreement by way of which Disney Star will license the television broadcasting rights of the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) Men’s and Under 19 (U-19) global events for a period of four years, to ZEE.

ZEE Entertainment Enterprises Ltd. (ZEE) and Disney Star, today announced that they have entered into a strategic licensing agreement by way of which Disney Star will license the television broadcasting rights of the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) Men’s and Under 19 (U-19) global events for a period of four years, to ZEE. Disney Star will continue to be the exclusive home for streaming of all ICC tournaments through its digital platform - Disney+ Hotstar. ICC has in-principle approved this arrangement. This association enables ZEE to be the exclusive television rights holder of ICC men’s events, including the coveted ICC Men’s T20 World Cup (2024, 2026), ICC Men’s Champions Trophy (2025), and the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup (2027) along with key ICC U-19 events. Speaking about the strategic development, Mr. Punit Goenka, MD & CEO, ZEE Entertainment Enterprises Ltd. said, “This is a first-of-its-kind partnership in the Indian media & entertainment landscape, and this association with Disney Star reflects our sharp, strategic vision for the sports business in India. As a one-stop television destination for ICC men’s cricket events until 2027, ZEE will leverage the strength of its network to offer a compelling experience for its viewers and a great return on investment for its advertisers. Long-term profitability and value-generation continue to be our areas of focus across the business, and we will always evaluate all the necessary steps that will enable us to make sports a compelling value proposition for the Company. We look forward to working with ICC and Disney Star, to enable this strategic offering for our television viewers in India.” Also Read: A look at winners of last eight editions of Asia Cup Mr. K Madhavan, Country Manager & President, Disney Star said “By securing the IPL television broadcast rights for 2023-27 and now opting to retain only the digital rights for ICC tournaments for 2024-27, we have in place a balanced and robust cricket offering for our audiences across linear and digital. Over the years, Disney Star has strengthened the appeal of international cricket in India, enabling it to reach diverse age groups and cultural demographics across all parts of the country. As India’s leading media house, we will continue to do so with our strong portfolio of cricket properties across television and digital.” For over three decades, ZEE has been a leading entertainment company, continually strengthening its position across markets by identifying newer avenues for growth and delivering value to stakeholders across the board. With its strong connect and reach across the country, ZEE reaffirms its commitment of presenting thrilling international cricket action to viewers and elevating the experience and engagement to unprecedented heights. Also Read: Explained: How India-Pakistan can square off again in Super 4 round at Asia Cup With the ICC digital rights secured for the next four years, Disney Star retains its position as the Home of Sports in India. Its current portfolio also includes the television rights for IPL (2023-27), television and digital rights for Cricket Australia (2023-2030), television and digital BCCI rights (2023) and television and digital rights for Cricket South Africa (end of 2023-2024). In addition to cricket, it also offers other major sports properties on its platforms including Pro Kabaddi League, Indian Super League, the Wimbledon Championship and the English Premier League.

ZEE Entertainment & Disney Star sign strategic licensing agreement for exclusive TV rights of ICC men’s events

Former India opener Gautam Gambhir said it was a massive surprise to see Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. drop wicket-keeper batter Rishabh Pant for Dinesh Karthik in the high-profile clash against Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2022 on Sunday. Karthik, who has been absolutely sensational as a finisher of late, made his comeback for India earlier this year.

Many had written off 37-year-old Karthik, who last featured for India at the 2019 World Cup before making his comeback earlier this year. The veteran keeper-batter has been enjoying a stellar run with the willow and has been brilliant in the lower-middle order. He had earned a spot in India's squad for the ongoing Asia Cup courtesy of his recent finishing heroics.

However, Pant has been India's first-choice wicket-keeper batter in all three formats for a while now and was expected to be picked ahead of Karthik. His absence from the playing XI also deprived India of a left-hander in their top five against Pakistan which saw them promote Ravindra Jadeja to number 4.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-gifts-signed-jersey-to-pakistan-pacer-wins-hearts-with-his-heartwarming-gesture-watch-511263">Virat Kohli gifts signed jersey to Pakistan pacer, wins hearts with his heartwarming gesture - WATCH</a>

Sharing his take on India's decision to pick Karthik ahead of Pant, a surprised Gambhir said the team should not experiment too much with a handful of T20 matches left ahead of the T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia later this year. Gambhir believes having Karthik over Pant makes India's batting line-up one-dimensional due to the lack of a left-hander.

"I won't experiment from now on because how many games do we have… this Asia Cup? And then you've got what… five more games, six more games and then the World Cup. From now on, you want a settled Playing XI. Yes, you can have your backups as well but that is the way I would have wanted. It is a bit of a surprise because Rishabh Pant has been an X-factor," Gambhir said on Star Sports.

"You need a left-handed in the middle order. India have a lot of right-handers there, which is one-dimensional. And he has done reasonably well. He can be someone who can open the game for you and he can be a floater as well. A bit surprising but I hope it is not long-term. I will still back Rishabh Pant ahead of Dinesh Karthik. It's a massive surprise," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/it-was-a-nothing-shot-gautam-gambhir-slams-virat-kohli-for-his-dismissal-against-pakistan-in-asia-cup-2022-511243">'It was a nothing shot': Gautam Gambhir slams Virat Kohli for his dismissal against Pakistan in Asia Cup 2022</a>

While many believed Pant had to miss out due to a niggle, Indian captain Rohit Sharma had confirmed at the toss the left-hander was fit but the team had to make the difficult choice of picking Karthik over him. India will next face Hong Kong on Wednesday (August 31).

Former India opener Gautam Gambhir said it was a massive surprise to see Rohit Sharma & Co. drop wicket-keeper batter Rishabh Pant for Dinesh Karthik in the high-profile clash against Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2022 on Sunday.

Former India opener Gautam Gambhir said it was a massive surprise to see Rohit Sharma & Co. drop wicket-keeper batter Rishabh Pant for Dinesh Karthik in the high-profile clash against Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2022 on Sunday. Karthik, who has been absolutely sensational as a finisher of late, made his comeback for India earlier this year. Many had written off 37-year-old Karthik, who last featured for India at the 2019 World Cup before making his comeback earlier this year. The veteran keeper-batter has been enjoying a stellar run with the willow and has been brilliant in the lower-middle order. He had earned a spot in India's squad for the ongoing Asia Cup courtesy of his recent finishing heroics. However, Pant has been India's first-choice wicket-keeper batter in all three formats for a while now and was expected to be picked ahead of Karthik. His absence from the playing XI also deprived India of a left-hander in their top five against Pakistan which saw them promote Ravindra Jadeja to number 4. Also Read: Virat Kohli gifts signed jersey to Pakistan pacer, wins hearts with his heartwarming gesture - WATCH Sharing his take on India's decision to pick Karthik ahead of Pant, a surprised Gambhir said the team should not experiment too much with a handful of T20 matches left ahead of the T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia later this year. Gambhir believes having Karthik over Pant makes India's batting line-up one-dimensional due to the lack of a left-hander. "I won't experiment from now on because how many games do we have… this Asia Cup? And then you've got what… five more games, six more games and then the World Cup. From now on, you want a settled Playing XI. Yes, you can have your backups as well but that is the way I would have wanted. It is a bit of a surprise because Rishabh Pant has been an X-factor," Gambhir said on Star Sports. "You need a left-handed in the middle order. India have a lot of right-handers there, which is one-dimensional. And he has done reasonably well. He can be someone who can open the game for you and he can be a floater as well. A bit surprising but I hope it is not long-term. I will still back Rishabh Pant ahead of Dinesh Karthik. It's a massive surprise," he added. Also Read: 'It was a nothing shot': Gautam Gambhir slams Virat Kohli for his dismissal against Pakistan in Asia Cup 2022 While many believed Pant had to miss out due to a niggle, Indian captain Rohit Sharma had confirmed at the toss the left-hander was fit but the team had to make the difficult choice of picking Karthik over him. India will next face Hong Kong on Wednesday (August 31).

'Hope it's not long-term': Gautam Gambhir on India's decision to drop Pant for Karthik against Pakistan

India and Pakistan locked horns with each other in the Asia Cup 2022 edition on Sunday (August 28), at the iconic Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai -- the venue where both had last met during the 2021 T20 World Cup. Rohit Sharma-led India opted to bowl first and rode on Bhuvneshwar Kumar's 4/26 and Hardik Pandya's 3-fer to dismiss Babar Azam-led Pakistan for 147 in 19.5 overs. In a topsy-turvy chase, India emerged on top in a last-over thriller courtesy of Hardik's 17-ball 33* and Ravindra Jadeja's vital 35.

India vs Pakistan, Asia Cup 2022 live score and updates:

11:45 PM IST: Hardik Pandya has done it! The all-rounder smacks a nonchalant six off the 4th ball of the 20th over from Mohammad Nawaz to take India over the line in style. What a run chase and what a win for the Indian team. They looked in a tricky position at one stage but Hardik's brilliance manage to steer them through.&nbsp;India beat Pakistan by 5 wickets to get off to a winning start. India - 148/5 (19.4 overs)

11:37 PM IST: Hardik Pandya the game-changer for India here. He slams three boundaries off the last 4 balls of the 19th over from Haris Rauf to get 14 runs off the over and bring the equation down to 7 required off the last over. It is pretty much India's game to lose now. India - 141/4 (19 overs)

11:30 PM IST:&nbsp;Naseem Shah with the 18th over and starts with a wide. Jadeja smacks the next one for a four before the young pacer bowls back-to-back dot balls. Shah hits Jadeja on the pads but the ball was pitching outside leg. Shah is struggling due to the hot weather in Dubai as lies on the ground with two balls left in his spell. Jadeja smokes a six and misses the next as India take 11 off the over. India - 127/4 (18 overs).

11:20 PM IST:&nbsp;9 runs for India off the 17th over from Haris Rauf. Hardik and Jadeja need to take off from here as the duo are clearly struggling to middle the ball. 32 runs needed off the final three overs. This is going down the wire. India - 116/4 (17 overs)

11:10 PM IST:&nbsp;India are struggling a bit here as the equation gets tougher with every passing over. 10 runs off the 16th over for India but the pressure is on Hardik and Jadeja, who are out in the middle. 41 runs required off the last four overs now. India - 107/4 (16 overs)

10:59 PM IST: Naseem Shah comes in clutch for Pakistan as he dispatches Suryakumar Yadav, picking up his second wicket of the night. Impressing fans with his mental fortitude and athletic prowess, Shah paves the way for Hardik Pandya to make his way onto the pitch. India- 89/4 (14 overs)&nbsp;

10:52 PM IST:&nbsp;Pakistan call for a review after suspicions of Shahnawaz Dahani's&nbsp;ball making contact with Ravindra Jadeja's bat before making its way into Mohammad Rizwan's gloves. However, Jadeja escapes the&nbsp;review unscathed as&nbsp;officials declare there was no contact with the bat.&nbsp;India- 89/3 (13 overs)

10:39 PM IST:&nbsp;Shadab Khan with the 11th over for Pakistan. Suryakumar sweeps him for a boundary on the 4th ball to get 7 runs off the over. Both teams are still very much in this game with 79 runs required off 54 balls. India - 70/3 (11 overs)

10: 35&nbsp;PM IST: Wicket! India lose Rohit and Kohli in quick succession.&nbsp;Kohli was looking in great touch but ended up going for a half-hearted stroke&nbsp;against Nawaz on the first ball of the tenth over to get caught. He departs for 35 as Suryakumar Yadav joins Ravindra Jadeja in the middle. 9 runs off the 10th over for India.&nbsp;India - 62/3&nbsp;(10&nbsp;overs)

10:25 PM IST: Wicket! Rohit Sharma miscues his shot and is caught by&nbsp;Iftikhar Ahmed off the bowling of Mohammad Nawaz on the final ball of the eighth over. It's a huge blow for India as Rohit departs on 12 off 18 balls. 9 runs off the 8th over. India - 50/2 (8 overs)

10:15 PM IST: Pakistan pacers have displayed a great exhibition of pace with all three - Naseem, Dahani and Rauf bowling in excess of 140 kph. However, Kohli has looked in great touch so far and has been rotating the strike well. 6 runs off the 5th over and 9 off the 6th. India - 38/1 (6 overs)

10:05 PM IST: Pakistan pacers have been brilliant so far in utilising the conditions and bowling at a good pace. Haris Rauf with the fourth over. Just 2 runs off the first four balls before Kohli takes on the short ball and gets a six off a thick edge. 8 runs off the over. India - 23/1 (4 overs)

10:00 PM IST: Naseem Shah with the third over for Pakistan and he continues with his impressive pace. The youngster has been easily clocking 140kph and looks in a great rhythm. 5 runs off the 3rd over for India. India - 15/1 (3 overs)

9:55 PM IST: Virat Kohli gets into the groove with a boundary off the fifth ball of the second over from Shahnawaz Dahani. 7 runs off the over for India as the nerves settle down a bit after a shaky start. India - 10/1 (2 overs)

9:48 PM IST: Wicket! Naseem Shah sends KL Rahul packing on a duck. A&nbsp;142kph shortish delivery and Rahul edges it onto the stumps. A golden duck for the Indian opener as Pakistan get off to a dream start. Virat Kohli is the new man in. Brilliant start for Pakistan just 3 off the first over. India - 3/1 (1 over)

9:40 PM IST: We are all set for India's run-chase to get underway. Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul will open the batting for India and Naseem Shah takes the ball for Pakistan to kick off the proceedings.

9:30 PM IST: OUT!&nbsp;After some lusty blows from Dahani, Arshdeep gets it right with a full-length delivery to dismantle his stumps. Pakistan come close to the 150-run mark and have something to bowl at but will be a herculean task for them to stop India in a moderate run-chase. PAK 147 all-out in 19.5 overs&nbsp;

9:24 PM IST:&nbsp;Bhuvi ends with the best bowling figures by an Indian versus Pakistan. 4-0-26-4. SIMPLY SUPERB!!!

9:18 PM IST:&nbsp;Arshdeep, Bhuvi continue to strike for India in the end overs. Pakistan is desperate to take closer to the 150-run mark. It can be a tricky total -- despite India's superstar-batting line-up -- but even that looks like an improbable&nbsp;task for the Men in Green. PAK 128-8 in 18.2 overs

9:04 PM IST:&nbsp;Pakistan have lost the plot. Every time they looked to attack, they have lost wickets. Hardik's three consecutive strikes have dented Men in Green's progress. All hopes were on Shadab-Asif Ali but they have now lost the latter as well, to Bhuvi. Babar &amp; Co.&nbsp;are certainly finding it tough to strike big with the Indian bowlers changing their pace and using the bouncers at will. PAK 112-6 (16.3 overs).

8:51 PM IST:&nbsp;OUT! Another quick delivery, hitting the seam right and followed the batsman. Good catch from Avesh at the third-man region as Pakistan lose Rizwan. Hardik strikes once again. India needed this right before the final five overs. PAK 96/4 (14.1 overs)

8:48 PM IST:&nbsp;We are heading into the final five overs. All eyes are on Rizwan. He is nearing a half-century. Although Pakistan will hope for him to better his strike rate&nbsp;considerably going ahead. Bhuvi and Arshdeep's remaining overs will be crucial. Fasten your seatbelts, we are in for a rapid end to the first half. PAK 96/3 (14)

8:42 PM IST:&nbsp;OUT! Pandya comes back into the attack and uses the short ball to get rid of the dangerman Iftikhkar. He was looking good in the partnership and was set to explode in the final overs. India continue to remain ahead. Will they close the first half in style? PAK 87-3 (12.1 overs)

8:38 PM IST:&nbsp;A huge six -- from Iftikhar -- followed by a dropped catch of his own bowling from Chahal. A dozen overs complete as Rizwan-Iftikhar get a move on. PAK 87-2 (12)

8:28 PM IST:&nbsp;India end the first ten overs by easily having the edge. Pakistan have struggled to break the shackles after losing captain Babar. Iftikhar has come out with a positive intent. Will be interesting to see who will be targetted by the Pakistani pair in the last ten overs. Anything below 150 won't be a challenging score for his batting-heavy Team India line-up. PAK 68-2 (10)

8:22 PM IST:&nbsp;The pitch is dry. Spinners have come into play from both ends -- with Chahal and Jadeja -- as Pakistan are struggling to get going. The surfaces in UAE are tricky and can test any batting side. Nonetheless, taking nothing away from Indian bowlers' discipline so far. PAK 63-2 (9)

8:16 PM IST:&nbsp;Rizwan in focus as Pakistan lose two quick wickets. Iftikar comes in as India introduces spin into the attack with Yuzi Chahal bowling the 8th over. PAK 51/2 (7)

8:06 PM IST:&nbsp;Avesh bowls the sixth over, the last of the powerplay. Rizwan took him on and got rewarded. Men in Green were on the move before the pacer removed&nbsp;Fakhar Zaman. The left-hander went for a cut and seemed to have edged it. He walked away as soon as the ball passed him.&nbsp;PAK 42-2&nbsp;(5.5)

8:02 PM IST:&nbsp;Another brilliant over for India. Hardik troubles Rizwan with his movement and the right-hander isn't looking in his elements so far. Hardik concedes only seven runs in his first as PAK 30/1 (5)

8 PM IST: Bhuvi follows Nehraji!!!

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DYK? 
The last Indian bowler, before Bhuvneshwar Kumar, to claim a Pakistani wicket in T20Is was Ashish Nehra (of Shoaib Malik) in the WT20 match at Kolkata on 19 March 2016!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AsiaCup2022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AsiaCup2022</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvPAK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvPAK</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PakvsInd?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PakvsInd</a>
— Mohandas Menon (@mohanstatsman) <a href="https://twitter.com/mohanstatsman/status/1563896557816401920?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 28, 2022</a></blockquote>
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7:54 PM IST: Plenty of dot balls from Bhuvi-Arshdeep as pressure piling up on Pakistan. Will be interesting to see how Rizwan goes about his business after losing Babar early. He added another boundary to his team's tally in the fourth over. Men in Green will need a special from him. PAK 23/1 (4)

7:48 PM IST:&nbsp;OUT! Bhuvi resorts to the bouncer and probably surprised Babar as the captain went for the pull, gets a top-edge to be caught by Arshdeep. Big wicket for Team India. PAK 15/1 in 2.4 overs

7:44 PM IST:&nbsp;A decent over from Arshdeep before another beautiful drive from Babar in the last ball of the second over. He is pleasing to the eye. Pakistan skipper looking good already. PAK 14/0 (2 overs)

7:32 PM IST:&nbsp;Bhuvneshwar Kumar is always dangerous with the new ball. There was some movement on the first ball and he&nbsp;trapped&nbsp;Md Rizwan lbw&nbsp;on the very next delivery. The decision, however,&nbsp;went upstairs after the umpire signalled out. Rizwan carries on as the ball misses the off-side on height. It was followed by a beautiful drive from Babar and a DRS from India, leading to Rizwan surviving once again. Entertaining first over. PAK 6/0 (1)

7:25 PM IST:&nbsp;In Shaheen Afridi's absence, Pakistan have opted for a solid pace attack consisting of Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf and Shahnawaz Dahani. They also have three spin options but the middle-order looks thin.

7:15 PM IST: Some interesting selection calls from India. Rohit &amp; Co. have dropped Rishabh Pant for in-form Dinesh Karthik depriving them of a left-hand option in the top five. India have also gone with three specialist pacers with Chahal and Jadeja as the two spinners.

7:05 PM IST: Here are the playing XIs of the two teams

Pakistan: Babar Azam(c), Mohammad Rizwan(w), Fakhar Zaman, Iftikhar Ahmed, Khushdil Shah, Asif Ali, Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf, Shahnawaz Dahani

India: Rohit Sharma(c), KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Dinesh Karthik(w), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Avesh Khan, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh

7:00 PM IST: Toss! India captain Rohit Sharma won the toss and opted to bowl first.

6:55 PM IST: Rahul Dravid is back with the Indian squad after testing negative for COVID-19 and was spotted giving a pep talk to the players ahead of the big game.

6:50 PM IST: We are just a few minutes away from toss as players from both sides continue their warm-up ahead of the high-profile clash. The Dubai International Stadium is packed with fans from both countries as they wait to watch their heroes in action.

India and Pakistan locked horns with each other in the Asia Cup 2022 edition on Sunday (August 28), at the iconic Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai -- the venue where both had last met during the 2021 T20 World Cup.

India and Pakistan locked horns with each other in the Asia Cup 2022 edition on Sunday (August 28), at the iconic Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai -- the venue where both had last met during the 2021 T20 World Cup. Rohit Sharma-led India opted to bowl first and rode on Bhuvneshwar Kumar's 4/26 and Hardik Pandya's 3-fer to dismiss Babar Azam-led Pakistan for 147 in 19.5 overs. In a topsy-turvy chase, India emerged on top in a last-over thriller courtesy of Hardik's 17-ball 33* and Ravindra Jadeja's vital 35. India vs Pakistan, Asia Cup 2022 live score and updates: 11:45 PM IST: Hardik Pandya has done it! The all-rounder smacks a nonchalant six off the 4th ball of the 20th over from Mohammad Nawaz to take India over the line in style. What a run chase and what a win for the Indian team. They looked in a tricky position at one stage but Hardik's brilliance manage to steer them through. India beat Pakistan by 5 wickets to get off to a winning start. India - 148/5 (19.4 overs) 11:37 PM IST: Hardik Pandya the game-changer for India here. He slams three boundaries off the last 4 balls of the 19th over from Haris Rauf to get 14 runs off the over and bring the equation down to 7 required off the last over. It is pretty much India's game to lose now. India - 141/4 (19 overs) 11:30 PM IST: Naseem Shah with the 18th over and starts with a wide. Jadeja smacks the next one for a four before the young pacer bowls back-to-back dot balls. Shah hits Jadeja on the pads but the ball was pitching outside leg. Shah is struggling due to the hot weather in Dubai as lies on the ground with two balls left in his spell. Jadeja smokes a six and misses the next as India take 11 off the over. India - 127/4 (18 overs). 11:20 PM IST: 9 runs for India off the 17th over from Haris Rauf. Hardik and Jadeja need to take off from here as the duo are clearly struggling to middle the ball. 32 runs needed off the final three overs. This is going down the wire. India - 116/4 (17 overs) 11:10 PM IST: India are struggling a bit here as the equation gets tougher with every passing over. 10 runs off the 16th over for India but the pressure is on Hardik and Jadeja, who are out in the middle. 41 runs required off the last four overs now. India - 107/4 (16 overs) 10:59 PM IST: Naseem Shah comes in clutch for Pakistan as he dispatches Suryakumar Yadav, picking up his second wicket of the night. Impressing fans with his mental fortitude and athletic prowess, Shah paves the way for Hardik Pandya to make his way onto the pitch. India- 89/4 (14 overs) 10:52 PM IST: Pakistan call for a review after suspicions of Shahnawaz Dahani's ball making contact with Ravindra Jadeja's bat before making its way into Mohammad Rizwan's gloves. However, Jadeja escapes the review unscathed as officials declare there was no contact with the bat. India- 89/3 (13 overs) 10:39 PM IST: Shadab Khan with the 11th over for Pakistan. Suryakumar sweeps him for a boundary on the 4th ball to get 7 runs off the over. Both teams are still very much in this game with 79 runs required off 54 balls. India - 70/3 (11 overs) 10: 35 PM IST: Wicket! India lose Rohit and Kohli in quick succession. Kohli was looking in great touch but ended up going for a half-hearted stroke against Nawaz on the first ball of the tenth over to get caught. He departs for 35 as Suryakumar Yadav joins Ravindra Jadeja in the middle. 9 runs off the 10th over for India. India - 62/3 (10 overs) 10:25 PM IST: Wicket! Rohit Sharma miscues his shot and is caught by Iftikhar Ahmed off the bowling of Mohammad Nawaz on the final ball of the eighth over. It's a huge blow for India as Rohit departs on 12 off 18 balls. 9 runs off the 8th over. India - 50/2 (8 overs) 10:15 PM IST: Pakistan pacers have displayed a great exhibition of pace with all three - Naseem, Dahani and Rauf bowling in excess of 140 kph. However, Kohli has looked in great touch so far and has been rotating the strike well. 6 runs off the 5th over and 9 off the 6th. India - 38/1 (6 overs) 10:05 PM IST: Pakistan pacers have been brilliant so far in utilising the conditions and bowling at a good pace. Haris Rauf with the fourth over. Just 2 runs off the first four balls before Kohli takes on the short ball and gets a six off a thick edge. 8 runs off the over. India - 23/1 (4 overs) 10:00 PM IST: Naseem Shah with the third over for Pakistan and he continues with his impressive pace. The youngster has been easily clocking 140kph and looks in a great rhythm. 5 runs off the 3rd over for India. India - 15/1 (3 overs) 9:55 PM IST: Virat Kohli gets into the groove with a boundary off the fifth ball of the second over from Shahnawaz Dahani. 7 runs off the over for India as the nerves settle down a bit after a shaky start. India - 10/1 (2 overs) 9:48 PM IST: Wicket! Naseem Shah sends KL Rahul packing on a duck. A 142kph shortish delivery and Rahul edges it onto the stumps. A golden duck for the Indian opener as Pakistan get off to a dream start. Virat Kohli is the new man in. Brilliant start for Pakistan just 3 off the first over. India - 3/1 (1 over) 9:40 PM IST: We are all set for India's run-chase to get underway. Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul will open the batting for India and Naseem Shah takes the ball for Pakistan to kick off the proceedings. 9:30 PM IST: OUT! After some lusty blows from Dahani, Arshdeep gets it right with a full-length delivery to dismantle his stumps. Pakistan come close to the 150-run mark and have something to bowl at but will be a herculean task for them to stop India in a moderate run-chase. PAK 147 all-out in 19.5 overs 9:24 PM IST: Bhuvi ends with the best bowling figures by an Indian versus Pakistan. 4-0-26-4. SIMPLY SUPERB!!! 9:18 PM IST: Arshdeep, Bhuvi continue to strike for India in the end overs. Pakistan is desperate to take closer to the 150-run mark. It can be a tricky total -- despite India's superstar-batting line-up -- but even that looks like an improbable task for the Men in Green. PAK 128-8 in 18.2 overs 9:04 PM IST: Pakistan have lost the plot. Every time they looked to attack, they have lost wickets. Hardik's three consecutive strikes have dented Men in Green's progress. All hopes were on Shadab-Asif Ali but they have now lost the latter as well, to Bhuvi. Babar & Co. are certainly finding it tough to strike big with the Indian bowlers changing their pace and using the bouncers at will. PAK 112-6 (16.3 overs). 8:51 PM IST: OUT! Another quick delivery, hitting the seam right and followed the batsman. Good catch from Avesh at the third-man region as Pakistan lose Rizwan. Hardik strikes once again. India needed this right before the final five overs. PAK 96/4 (14.1 overs) 8:48 PM IST: We are heading into the final five overs. All eyes are on Rizwan. He is nearing a half-century. Although Pakistan will hope for him to better his strike rate considerably going ahead. Bhuvi and Arshdeep's remaining overs will be crucial. Fasten your seatbelts, we are in for a rapid end to the first half. PAK 96/3 (14) 8:42 PM IST: OUT! Pandya comes back into the attack and uses the short ball to get rid of the dangerman Iftikhkar. He was looking good in the partnership and was set to explode in the final overs. India continue to remain ahead. Will they close the first half in style? PAK 87-3 (12.1 overs) 8:38 PM IST: A huge six -- from Iftikhar -- followed by a dropped catch of his own bowling from Chahal. A dozen overs complete as Rizwan-Iftikhar get a move on. PAK 87-2 (12) 8:28 PM IST: India end the first ten overs by easily having the edge. Pakistan have struggled to break the shackles after losing captain Babar. Iftikhar has come out with a positive intent. Will be interesting to see who will be targetted by the Pakistani pair in the last ten overs. Anything below 150 won't be a challenging score for his batting-heavy Team India line-up. PAK 68-2 (10) 8:22 PM IST: The pitch is dry. Spinners have come into play from both ends -- with Chahal and Jadeja -- as Pakistan are struggling to get going. The surfaces in UAE are tricky and can test any batting side. Nonetheless, taking nothing away from Indian bowlers' discipline so far. PAK 63-2 (9) 8:16 PM IST: Rizwan in focus as Pakistan lose two quick wickets. Iftikar comes in as India introduces spin into the attack with Yuzi Chahal bowling the 8th over. PAK 51/2 (7) 8:06 PM IST: Avesh bowls the sixth over, the last of the powerplay. Rizwan took him on and got rewarded. Men in Green were on the move before the pacer removed Fakhar Zaman. The left-hander went for a cut and seemed to have edged it. He walked away as soon as the ball passed him. PAK 42-2 (5.5) 8:02 PM IST: Another brilliant over for India. Hardik troubles Rizwan with his movement and the right-hander isn't looking in his elements so far. Hardik concedes only seven runs in his first as PAK 30/1 (5) 8 PM IST: Bhuvi follows Nehraji!!! DYK? The last Indian bowler, before Bhuvneshwar Kumar, to claim a Pakistani wicket in T20Is was Ashish Nehra (of Shoaib Malik) in the WT20 match at Kolkata on 19 March 2016!#AsiaCup2022 #INDvPAK #PakvsInd — Mohandas Menon (@mohanstatsman) August 28, 2022 × 7:54 PM IST: Plenty of dot balls from Bhuvi-Arshdeep as pressure piling up on Pakistan. Will be interesting to see how Rizwan goes about his business after losing Babar early. He added another boundary to his team's tally in the fourth over. Men in Green will need a special from him. PAK 23/1 (4) 7:48 PM IST: OUT! Bhuvi resorts to the bouncer and probably surprised Babar as the captain went for the pull, gets a top-edge to be caught by Arshdeep. Big wicket for Team India. PAK 15/1 in 2.4 overs 7:44 PM IST: A decent over from Arshdeep before another beautiful drive from Babar in the last ball of the second over. He is pleasing to the eye. Pakistan skipper looking good already. PAK 14/0 (2 overs) 7:32 PM IST: Bhuvneshwar Kumar is always dangerous with the new ball. There was some movement on the first ball and he trapped Md Rizwan lbw on the very next delivery. The decision, however, went upstairs after the umpire signalled out. Rizwan carries on as the ball misses the off-side on height. It was followed by a beautiful drive from Babar and a DRS from India, leading to Rizwan surviving once again. Entertaining first over. PAK 6/0 (1) 7:25 PM IST: In Shaheen Afridi's absence, Pakistan have opted for a solid pace attack consisting of Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf and Shahnawaz Dahani. They also have three spin options but the middle-order looks thin. 7:15 PM IST: Some interesting selection calls from India. Rohit & Co. have dropped Rishabh Pant for in-form Dinesh Karthik depriving them of a left-hand option in the top five. India have also gone with three specialist pacers with Chahal and Jadeja as the two spinners. 7:05 PM IST: Here are the playing XIs of the two teams Pakistan: Babar Azam(c), Mohammad Rizwan(w), Fakhar Zaman, Iftikhar Ahmed, Khushdil Shah, Asif Ali, Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf, Shahnawaz Dahani India: Rohit Sharma(c), KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Dinesh Karthik(w), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Avesh Khan, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh 7:00 PM IST: Toss! India captain Rohit Sharma won the toss and opted to bowl first. 6:55 PM IST: Rahul Dravid is back with the Indian squad after testing negative for COVID-19 and was spotted giving a pep talk to the players ahead of the big game. 6:50 PM IST: We are just a few minutes away from toss as players from both sides continue their warm-up ahead of the high-profile clash. The Dubai International Stadium is packed with fans from both countries as they wait to watch their heroes in action.

India vs Pakistan, Asia Cup 2022 HIGHLIGHTS: Hardik, Jadeja propel India to thrilling 5-wicket win

Hardik Pandya emerged as the hero for India as Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. defeated Pakistan by five wickets to get their Asia Cup 2022 campaign underway with a win. Pandya produced a brilliant all-round performance to help India restrict Pakistan on a total of 147 runs before chasing down the target with two balls to spare.

The all-rounder picked up a three-wicket haul with the ball as he made great use of the bounce on offer to trouble the Pakistan batters and skittle them out on a moderate total. He then went on to score an unbeaten 33 off just 17 balls with the bat to take India home in a last-over humdinger.

Hardik was calm and composed in the middle with India requiring 21 runs to get off the final two overs. He slammed three boundaries against Haris Rauf in the 19th over to bring the equation down to 7 required off the last over. India lose Ravindra Jadeja's wicket on the first ball of the 20th over but Hardik finished off the run-chase in style with a six against Mohammad Nawaz.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/it-was-a-nothing-shot-gautam-gambhir-slams-virat-kohli-for-his-dismissal-against-pakistan-in-asia-cup-2022-511243">'It was a nothing shot': Gautam Gambhir slams Virat Kohli for his dismissal against Pakistan in Asia Cup 2022</a>

After his finishing heroics against Pakistan, the Indian all-rounder credited former India captain MS Dhoni and said he has learnt a lot from him. Dhoni, who handed Pandya his India debut, is regarded as one of the greatest finishers the game has ever seen.

"I try to keep things simple as much as I can. Obviously, I have learnt this from Mahi bhai (MS Dhoni) while playing with him. I learn from all the cricketers I play with. I believe that if you want to take any decision in life if you are calm it will help you take better decision. I apply the same during batting and keep my options ready," Pandya told broadcaster Star Sports after India's victory.

"In a chase like this, you always plan over-by-over. I always knew that there is one young bowler and also one left-arm spinner. We only needed 7 off the last over but even if we needed 15, I'd have fancied myself. I know the bowler is under more pressure than me in the 20th over. I try to keep things simple," he added.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-hardiks-savage-response-to-dinesh-karthik-in-last-over-of-ind-vs-pak-thriller-goes-viral-watch-511092">Hardik's savage response to Dinesh Karthik in last-over of IND vs PAK thriller goes viral - watch</a>

Pandya walked out to bat at number six for India with the scoreboard reading 89/4 at his arrival. He joined forces with Jadeja in the middle and the duo posted a 49-run stand for the fifth wicket to take India closer to victory. India were in a spot of bother in the final over after Jadeja's dismissal, but Hardik showed no signs of pressure as he sealed the game with a six.

Hardik Pandya emerged as the hero for India as Rohit Sharma & Co. defeated Pakistan by five wickets to get their Asia Cup 2022 campaign underway with a win. Pandya produced a brilliant all-round performance to help India restrict Pakistan on a total of 147 runs before chasing down the target with two balls to spare.

Hardik Pandya emerged as the hero for India as Rohit Sharma & Co. defeated Pakistan by five wickets to get their Asia Cup 2022 campaign underway with a win. Pandya produced a brilliant all-round performance to help India restrict Pakistan on a total of 147 runs before chasing down the target with two balls to spare. The all-rounder picked up a three-wicket haul with the ball as he made great use of the bounce on offer to trouble the Pakistan batters and skittle them out on a moderate total. He then went on to score an unbeaten 33 off just 17 balls with the bat to take India home in a last-over humdinger. Hardik was calm and composed in the middle with India requiring 21 runs to get off the final two overs. He slammed three boundaries against Haris Rauf in the 19th over to bring the equation down to 7 required off the last over. India lose Ravindra Jadeja's wicket on the first ball of the 20th over but Hardik finished off the run-chase in style with a six against Mohammad Nawaz. Also Read: 'It was a nothing shot': Gautam Gambhir slams Virat Kohli for his dismissal against Pakistan in Asia Cup 2022 After his finishing heroics against Pakistan, the Indian all-rounder credited former India captain MS Dhoni and said he has learnt a lot from him. Dhoni, who handed Pandya his India debut, is regarded as one of the greatest finishers the game has ever seen. "I try to keep things simple as much as I can. Obviously, I have learnt this from Mahi bhai (MS Dhoni) while playing with him. I learn from all the cricketers I play with. I believe that if you want to take any decision in life if you are calm it will help you take better decision. I apply the same during batting and keep my options ready," Pandya told broadcaster Star Sports after India's victory. "In a chase like this, you always plan over-by-over. I always knew that there is one young bowler and also one left-arm spinner. We only needed 7 off the last over but even if we needed 15, I'd have fancied myself. I know the bowler is under more pressure than me in the 20th over. I try to keep things simple," he added. Also Read: Hardik's savage response to Dinesh Karthik in last-over of IND vs PAK thriller goes viral - watch Pandya walked out to bat at number six for India with the scoreboard reading 89/4 at his arrival. He joined forces with Jadeja in the middle and the duo posted a 49-run stand for the fifth wicket to take India closer to victory. India were in a spot of bother in the final over after Jadeja's dismissal, but Hardik showed no signs of pressure as he sealed the game with a six.

I have learnt from MS Dhoni: Hardik Pandya credits former India skipper after his stunning finish vs Pakistan

Team India superstar Virat Kohli won the hearts of many with his brilliant gesture for Pakistan pacer Haris Rauf after the blockbuster clash between the two sides in Asia Cup 2022 on Sunday (August 28). Kohli gifted a signed jersey to Rauf following India's five-wicket victory against Babar Azam &amp; Co. at the Dubai International Stadium.

It was an intense clash between the two arch-rivals as the game went down the wire with India pulling off a thrilling win courtesy of Hardik Pandya's brilliant knock. After bundling out Pakistan for 147 runs, India were in a tricky spot in their run-chase as they found themselves reeling on 89/4 in the 15th over.

However, Pandya joined forces with Ravindra Jadeja in the middle and took India home comfortably. The duo added 49 runs for the fifth wicket before Jadeja was dismissed on the first ball of the 20th over. Pandya then finished off the proceedings in style with a six to hand India their first win of the tournament.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/it-was-a-nothing-shot-gautam-gambhir-slams-virat-kohli-for-his-dismissal-against-pakistan-in-asia-cup-2022-511243">'It was a nothing shot': Gambhir slams Kohli for his dismissal against Pakistan in Asia Cup 2022</a>

Kohli, who was making his 100th appearance for India in T20Is, also looked in fine form as he scored 35 off 34 balls in the game. Post the match, the former India captain was spotted signing an India jersey for Pakistan pacer Rauf. His gesture was lauded by many on social media.

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The match may be over but moments like these shine bright 
 
A heartwarming gesture by <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> as he hands over a signed jersey to Pakistan's Haris Rauf post the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvPAK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvPAK</a> game <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AsiaCup2022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AsiaCup2022</a> <a href="https://t.co/3qqejMKHjG">pic.twitter.com/3qqejMKHjG</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1564229818811817985?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 29, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/welcome-to-the-club-ross-taylor-wishes-virat-kohli-on-completing-100th-t20i-former-india-captain-responds-511228">Welcome to the club: Ross Taylor wishes Virat Kohli on completing 100th T20I, former India captain responds</a>

Earlier, in the build-up to the much-anticipated clash, Indian players were seen exchanging pleasantries with the Pakistan players. The likes of Kohli, KL Rahul and Yuzvendra Chahal also met injured Shaheen Shah Afridi and wished him well for his recovery.&nbsp;

Kohli and Indian skipper&nbsp;Rohit Sharma&nbsp;both also caught up with Pakistan captain Babar Azam ahead of the game. Babar had admitted he was 'touched' by Indian players' gesture for Afridi.

Team India superstar Virat Kohli won the hearts of many with his brilliant gesture for Pakistan pacer Haris Rauf after the blockbuster clash between the two sides in Asia Cup 2022 on Sunday (August 28).

Team India superstar Virat Kohli won the hearts of many with his brilliant gesture for Pakistan pacer Haris Rauf after the blockbuster clash between the two sides in Asia Cup 2022 on Sunday (August 28). Kohli gifted a signed jersey to Rauf following India's five-wicket victory against Babar Azam & Co. at the Dubai International Stadium. It was an intense clash between the two arch-rivals as the game went down the wire with India pulling off a thrilling win courtesy of Hardik Pandya's brilliant knock. After bundling out Pakistan for 147 runs, India were in a tricky spot in their run-chase as they found themselves reeling on 89/4 in the 15th over. However, Pandya joined forces with Ravindra Jadeja in the middle and took India home comfortably. The duo added 49 runs for the fifth wicket before Jadeja was dismissed on the first ball of the 20th over. Pandya then finished off the proceedings in style with a six to hand India their first win of the tournament. Also Read: 'It was a nothing shot': Gambhir slams Kohli for his dismissal against Pakistan in Asia Cup 2022 Kohli, who was making his 100th appearance for India in T20Is, also looked in fine form as he scored 35 off 34 balls in the game. Post the match, the former India captain was spotted signing an India jersey for Pakistan pacer Rauf. His gesture was lauded by many on social media. The match may be over but moments like these shine bright A heartwarming gesture by @imVkohli as he hands over a signed jersey to Pakistan's Haris Rauf post the #INDvPAK game #TeamIndia | #AsiaCup2022 pic.twitter.com/3qqejMKHjG — BCCI (@BCCI) August 29, 2022 × Also Read: Welcome to the club: Ross Taylor wishes Virat Kohli on completing 100th T20I, former India captain responds Earlier, in the build-up to the much-anticipated clash, Indian players were seen exchanging pleasantries with the Pakistan players. The likes of Kohli, KL Rahul and Yuzvendra Chahal also met injured Shaheen Shah Afridi and wished him well for his recovery. Kohli and Indian skipper Rohit Sharma both also caught up with Pakistan captain Babar Azam ahead of the game. Babar had admitted he was 'touched' by Indian players' gesture for Afridi.

Virat Kohli gifts signed jersey to Pakistan pacer, wins hearts with his heartwarming gesture - WATCH

Former India opener Gautam Gambhir has slammed senior batter Virat Kohli for his disappointing dismissal against Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2022 on Sunday (August 28). All eyes were on Kohli as he made his comeback for the Indian team after taking a short break following the conclusion of the team's tour of England last month.

Kohli, who made his 100th appearance for India in the game, contributed with a crucial knock of 35 runs as he helped India chase down the target of 148 runs with two balls to spare and seal a five-wicket win. While he looked in decent touch, Kohli once again failed to convert his start into a big score.

The under-fire batter, who had recently endured criticism from all corners over his poor form, looked in fine rhythm and played some brilliant strokes en route to his 35 off 34 balls. However, he would have been disappointed by the way he got dismissed after playing a poor&nbsp;shot.

Gambhir slammed Kohli for throwing his wicket away in quick succession after Indian skipper Rohit Sharma's departure. India got off to a shaky start in the 148-run chase as they lost opener KL Rahul on a duck in the very first over before Kohli and Rohit survived brilliant spells from Naseem Shah and Sahnawaz Dahani.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/welcome-to-the-club-ross-taylor-wishes-virat-kohli-on-completing-100th-t20i-former-india-captain-responds-511228">Welcome to the club: Ross Taylor wishes Virat Kohli on completing 100th T20I, former India captain responds</a>

Kohli and Rohit added 49 runs for the second wicket after Rahul's early departure before the duo got out in a similar fashion, getting caught by Iftikhar Ahmed off the bowling of Mohammad Nawaz. Gambhir said Kohli would have been disappointed by the way he got out and should have played more sensibly after witnessing Rohit depart on the other end.

"He (Kohli) will be extremely disappointed because Rohit Sharma's wicket had just fallen and after that if you play a shot like that, it is good a youngster did not play that shot. There would have been a lot of criticism if a youngster had played that kind of shot," Gambhir said on&nbsp;Star Sports.

"I am sure the number of runs he has scored in international cricket. When he sees this shot he will tell himself that the shot was not required. You played 34 balls and scored 35 runs, your captain had just gotten out, if you had built your innings a little more, things might have become easier," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-cant-have-a-spinner-bowling-pakistan-legend-wasim-akram-points-out-babar-azams-mistake-vs-india-511201">'You can't have a spinner bowling..': Pakistan legend Wasim Akram points out Babar Azam's mistake vs India</a>

It was a half-hearted attempt from Kohli, who tried to go for a lofted shot on a tossed-up delivery from Nawaz but his execution was far from perfect. The ball went straight into the hands of&nbsp;Iftikhar, marking the end of Kohli's innings. Gambhir said he would have been happy if Kohli got out trying to smack a six but his shot was a 'nothing shot'.

"It is T20 cricket, you think at times that you should back your instincts and you did that, but it is a frustrating shot because it was a nothing shot. If you were looking to hit a six and had gotten out, there is no problem with that, because you are trying to play a big shot," said Gambhir.

"Here neither did you try to hit a six nor did you find a gap. Literally, it was a nothing shot, probably that is why he will be even more disappointed," he added.

Nonetheless, Kohli's dismissal didn't cost India as Hardik Pandya's unbeaten 33 off 17 balls laced with 4 fours and a solitary six helped India get over the line comfortably in the thrilling last-over run-chase.

Former India opener Gautam Gambhir has slammed senior batter Virat Kohli for his disappointing dismissal against Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2022 on Sunday (August 28).

Former India opener Gautam Gambhir has slammed senior batter Virat Kohli for his disappointing dismissal against Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2022 on Sunday (August 28). All eyes were on Kohli as he made his comeback for the Indian team after taking a short break following the conclusion of the team's tour of England last month. Kohli, who made his 100th appearance for India in the game, contributed with a crucial knock of 35 runs as he helped India chase down the target of 148 runs with two balls to spare and seal a five-wicket win. While he looked in decent touch, Kohli once again failed to convert his start into a big score. The under-fire batter, who had recently endured criticism from all corners over his poor form, looked in fine rhythm and played some brilliant strokes en route to his 35 off 34 balls. However, he would have been disappointed by the way he got dismissed after playing a poor shot. Gambhir slammed Kohli for throwing his wicket away in quick succession after Indian skipper Rohit Sharma's departure. India got off to a shaky start in the 148-run chase as they lost opener KL Rahul on a duck in the very first over before Kohli and Rohit survived brilliant spells from Naseem Shah and Sahnawaz Dahani. Also Read: Welcome to the club: Ross Taylor wishes Virat Kohli on completing 100th T20I, former India captain responds Kohli and Rohit added 49 runs for the second wicket after Rahul's early departure before the duo got out in a similar fashion, getting caught by Iftikhar Ahmed off the bowling of Mohammad Nawaz. Gambhir said Kohli would have been disappointed by the way he got out and should have played more sensibly after witnessing Rohit depart on the other end. "He (Kohli) will be extremely disappointed because Rohit Sharma's wicket had just fallen and after that if you play a shot like that, it is good a youngster did not play that shot. There would have been a lot of criticism if a youngster had played that kind of shot," Gambhir said on Star Sports. "I am sure the number of runs he has scored in international cricket. When he sees this shot he will tell himself that the shot was not required. You played 34 balls and scored 35 runs, your captain had just gotten out, if you had built your innings a little more, things might have become easier," he added. Also Read: 'You can't have a spinner bowling..': Pakistan legend Wasim Akram points out Babar Azam's mistake vs India It was a half-hearted attempt from Kohli, who tried to go for a lofted shot on a tossed-up delivery from Nawaz but his execution was far from perfect. The ball went straight into the hands of Iftikhar, marking the end of Kohli's innings. Gambhir said he would have been happy if Kohli got out trying to smack a six but his shot was a 'nothing shot'. "It is T20 cricket, you think at times that you should back your instincts and you did that, but it is a frustrating shot because it was a nothing shot. If you were looking to hit a six and had gotten out, there is no problem with that, because you are trying to play a big shot," said Gambhir. "Here neither did you try to hit a six nor did you find a gap. Literally, it was a nothing shot, probably that is why he will be even more disappointed," he added. Nonetheless, Kohli's dismissal didn't cost India as Hardik Pandya's unbeaten 33 off 17 balls laced with 4 fours and a solitary six helped India get over the line comfortably in the thrilling last-over run-chase.

'It was a nothing shot': Gautam Gambhir slams Virat Kohli for his dismissal against Pakistan in Asia Cup 2022

Virat Kohli on Sunday (August 28) became the first-ever Indian cricketer to complete 100 matches in each format of the game. Kohli added another feat to his list of achievements as he reached the triple-figure mark in T20Is after taking the field against Pakistan in India's Asia Cup 2022 opener on Sunday (August 28).

While Kohli is the first Indian to play a hundred or more matches in Tests, ODIs and T20Is, he is the second player in world cricket after New Zealand legend Ross Taylor to complete the rare milestone. Taylor, who retired from international cricket earlier this year, played 112 Tests, 236 ODIs and 102 T20Is in his international career.

Being the only member of the elite club, Taylor welcomed Kohli to it with a heartfelt wish on social media. Interestingly, Taylor had shared the dressing room with Kohli at the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/afridi-claims-no-one-in-team-india-likes-gautam-gambhir-twitterati-unimpressed-with-harbhajans-reaction-511075">Afridi claims 'no one in Team India likes Gautam Gambhir', Twitterati unimpressed with Harbhajan's reaction</a>

"Congratulations @virat.kohli on your 100th T20 game for India. Welcome to the club. I look forward to watching many more of your games in the years to come!," Taylor wrote in a post on Instagram

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<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Ch1oebWh8so/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Ross Taylor (@rossltaylor3)</a>
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Kohli was quick to notice Taylor's post for him and left a classy reply in the comments section. "Thanks Rosco. Some vintage pictures in there. Hope you and the family are well my man," wrote the former India captain.

<img alt="Taylor Kohli" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e026be21-3722-462d-8d82-f07ef4b66b35" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Taylor%20Kohli.png" />

All eye were on Kohli ahead of his 100th T20I for India as the senior batter was making his comeback after a short hiatus from cricket. Kohli ooked in fine touch as he scored 35 off 34 balls on a difficut track but failed to onvert his good start into a big score.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-cant-have-a-spinner-bowling-pakistan-legend-wasim-akram-points-out-babar-azams-mistake-vs-india-511201">'You can't have a spinner bowling..': Pakistan legend Wasim Akram points out Babar Azam's mistake vs India</a>

India defeated Pakistan by 5 wicket after successfully chasing down the target of 148 runs with brilliant knocks from Hardik Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja. While Pandya scored an unbeaten33 off just 17 balls, inclduing the winning runs in the final over, Jadeja notched up 35 off 29 balls.

With the win, India have moved to the top of Group A and will next face Hong Kong in their second match of the tournament on Wednesday (August 31).

Virat Kohli on Sunday (August 28) became the first-ever Indian cricketer to complete 100 matches in each format of the game. Kohli added another feat to his list of achievements as he reached the triple-figure mark in T20Is after taking the field against Pakistan in India's Asia Cup 2022 opener on Sunday (August 28).

Virat Kohli on Sunday (August 28) became the first-ever Indian cricketer to complete 100 matches in each format of the game. Kohli added another feat to his list of achievements as he reached the triple-figure mark in T20Is after taking the field against Pakistan in India's Asia Cup 2022 opener on Sunday (August 28). While Kohli is the first Indian to play a hundred or more matches in Tests, ODIs and T20Is, he is the second player in world cricket after New Zealand legend Ross Taylor to complete the rare milestone. Taylor, who retired from international cricket earlier this year, played 112 Tests, 236 ODIs and 102 T20Is in his international career. Being the only member of the elite club, Taylor welcomed Kohli to it with a heartfelt wish on social media. Interestingly, Taylor had shared the dressing room with Kohli at the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Also Read: Afridi claims 'no one in Team India likes Gautam Gambhir', Twitterati unimpressed with Harbhajan's reaction "Congratulations @virat.kohli on your 100th T20 game for India. Welcome to the club. I look forward to watching many more of your games in the years to come!," Taylor wrote in a post on Instagram View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ross Taylor (@rossltaylor3) × Kohli was quick to notice Taylor's post for him and left a classy reply in the comments section. "Thanks Rosco. Some vintage pictures in there. Hope you and the family are well my man," wrote the former India captain. All eye were on Kohli ahead of his 100th T20I for India as the senior batter was making his comeback after a short hiatus from cricket. Kohli ooked in fine touch as he scored 35 off 34 balls on a difficut track but failed to onvert his good start into a big score. Also Read: 'You can't have a spinner bowling..': Pakistan legend Wasim Akram points out Babar Azam's mistake vs India India defeated Pakistan by 5 wicket after successfully chasing down the target of 148 runs with brilliant knocks from Hardik Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja. While Pandya scored an unbeaten33 off just 17 balls, inclduing the winning runs in the final over, Jadeja notched up 35 off 29 balls. With the win, India have moved to the top of Group A and will next face Hong Kong in their second match of the tournament on Wednesday (August 31).

Welcome to the club: Ross Taylor wishes Virat Kohli on completing 100th T20I, former India captain responds

India defeated Pakistan by 5 wickets in a last-over thriller to get their Asia Cup 2022 campaign underway with a win at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai. India chased down the target of 148 runs with two balls to spare with the help of match-winning knocks from Hardik Pandya (33) and Ravindra Jadeja (35).

It was a thrilling encounter between the two sides which went down the wire with Pandya taking India home in style with a six against spinner Mohammad Nawaz on the fourth ball of the final over. Nawaz was the pick of the bowlers for Pakistan with three wickets but was handed an improbable task to defend seven runs in the 20th over.

Nawaz started the over brilliantly by removing Jadeja on the very first delivery and gave away just 1 run off the next two balls to leave Pandya with 6 to get off the last three balls. However, a cool and calm Pandya smashed a six to seal the deal for the Men in Blue and got them off to a winning start.

The legendary&nbsp;Wasim Akram lauded the Pakistan bowlers for their superb show in the game and reserved special praise for young pacer Naseem Shah, who delivered a fine spell despite struggling with cramps. However, Akram pointed out a crucial mistake by Pakistan skipper Babar Azam which cost the team.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shoaib-akhtar-slams-rohit-sharma-co-for-dropping-rishabh-pant-in-asia-cup-showdown-vs-pakistan-511142">Shoaib Akhtar slams Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. for dropping Rishabh Pant in Asia Cup showdown vs Pakistan</a>

Akram said Babar should have let Nawaz finish his quota of four overs by the end of the 13-14th over as a spinner should not have been bowling in the death overs for the team. Nawaz bowled the 20th over as Pakistan had no other bowling options.

"I like this T20 type of pitch. I enjoyed watching bowlers bowl bouncers and getting wickets, both sides. It was a good cricketing game that went down to the wire till the last over. Babar made one mistake. He should have had Nawaz bowl the 13th or 14th over. It was too late. You can't have a spinner in T20s bowling in the last 3 to 4 overs, especially against the likes of Ravindra Jadeja and Hardik Pandya," Akram said on Star Sports.

"He is a very clever bowler, Nawaz. He had just bowled the straighter one, got the inside edge. Well done India. They won the game. Congratulations. But I was impressed by Pakistan's bowler. Dahani, playing his 3rd or 4th game, Naseem Shah, 20-21 years-old playing his first game, Haris Rauf has been consistent for Pakistan and every bowler tried their heart out. You can see that the future is bright for Pakistan as far as fast bowling is concerned," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champion-virat-kohli-hails-hardik-pandya-after-all-rounders-match-winning-heroics-against-pakistan-511147">'Champion': Virat Kohli hails Hardik Pandya after all-rounder's match-winning heroics against Pakistan</a>

Pakistan pacers impressed with their consistent pace and precision in the game against India. Debutant Shah was the best among the lot as he bowled a terrific first over and returned with figures of 2/27 in his 4 overs. However, India managed to get the better of their arch-rivals and are off to a winning start in the tourament.

India defeated Pakistan by 5 wickets in a last-over thriller to get their Asia Cup 2022 campaign underway with a win at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai.

India defeated Pakistan by 5 wickets in a last-over thriller to get their Asia Cup 2022 campaign underway with a win at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai. India chased down the target of 148 runs with two balls to spare with the help of match-winning knocks from Hardik Pandya (33) and Ravindra Jadeja (35). It was a thrilling encounter between the two sides which went down the wire with Pandya taking India home in style with a six against spinner Mohammad Nawaz on the fourth ball of the final over. Nawaz was the pick of the bowlers for Pakistan with three wickets but was handed an improbable task to defend seven runs in the 20th over. Nawaz started the over brilliantly by removing Jadeja on the very first delivery and gave away just 1 run off the next two balls to leave Pandya with 6 to get off the last three balls. However, a cool and calm Pandya smashed a six to seal the deal for the Men in Blue and got them off to a winning start. The legendary Wasim Akram lauded the Pakistan bowlers for their superb show in the game and reserved special praise for young pacer Naseem Shah, who delivered a fine spell despite struggling with cramps. However, Akram pointed out a crucial mistake by Pakistan skipper Babar Azam which cost the team. Also Read: Shoaib Akhtar slams Rohit Sharma & Co. for dropping Rishabh Pant in Asia Cup showdown vs Pakistan Akram said Babar should have let Nawaz finish his quota of four overs by the end of the 13-14th over as a spinner should not have been bowling in the death overs for the team. Nawaz bowled the 20th over as Pakistan had no other bowling options. "I like this T20 type of pitch. I enjoyed watching bowlers bowl bouncers and getting wickets, both sides. It was a good cricketing game that went down to the wire till the last over. Babar made one mistake. He should have had Nawaz bowl the 13th or 14th over. It was too late. You can't have a spinner in T20s bowling in the last 3 to 4 overs, especially against the likes of Ravindra Jadeja and Hardik Pandya," Akram said on Star Sports. "He is a very clever bowler, Nawaz. He had just bowled the straighter one, got the inside edge. Well done India. They won the game. Congratulations. But I was impressed by Pakistan's bowler. Dahani, playing his 3rd or 4th game, Naseem Shah, 20-21 years-old playing his first game, Haris Rauf has been consistent for Pakistan and every bowler tried their heart out. You can see that the future is bright for Pakistan as far as fast bowling is concerned," he added. Also Read: 'Champion': Virat Kohli hails Hardik Pandya after all-rounder's match-winning heroics against Pakistan Pakistan pacers impressed with their consistent pace and precision in the game against India. Debutant Shah was the best among the lot as he bowled a terrific first over and returned with figures of 2/27 in his 4 overs. However, India managed to get the better of their arch-rivals and are off to a winning start in the tourament.

'You can't have a spinner bowling..': Pakistan legend Wasim Akram points out Babar Azam's mistake vs India

Former India captain Virat Kohli lauded all-rounder Hardik Pandya after his match-winning heroics against Pakistan in the team's Asia Cup 2022 opener on Sunday (August 28). Pandya shone with the bat and the ball as India defeated Pakistan by 5 wickets in a last-over thriller at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai.

Pandya delivered an exceptional spell with the ball to finish with figures of 3/25 in his four overs before playing a match-winning knock of unbeaten 33 off just 17 balls to take India home in the pressure run chase. Pandya came out to bat at number six and remained unbeaten till the end to take India over the line in style with a six in the final over.

India were in a tricky spot in their pursuit of the target of 149 runs at 89/4 in the 15th over when Pandya joined Ravindra Jadeja in the middle. The duo shared a 52-run stand for the fifth wicket and took India closer to the victory line before Jadeja ended up losing his wicket on the very first delivery of the final over.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/even-if-we-needed-15-id-have-fancied-myself-hardik-pandya-after-india-edge-past-pakistan-in-asia-cup-511042">'Even if we needed 15, I'd have fancied myself': Hardik Pandya after India edge past Pakistan in Asia Cup</a>

However, with 7 to get off the final five balls, Pandya showed nerves of steel&nbsp;and smacked a six on the 4th delivery from Mohammad Nawaz to help India win with two balls to spare. Hardik was praised by many, including his teammate and former captain Kohli, who took to his Instagram story to hail him as a champion.

<img alt="Virat Kohli story Pandya" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5ff21e52-c541-44bf-b174-8d7120bd3d9e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Kohli%20story%20Pandya.png" />

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-hardiks-savage-response-to-dinesh-karthik-in-last-over-of-ind-vs-pak-thriller-goes-viral-watch-511092">Hardik's savage response to Dinesh Karthik in last-over of IND vs PAK thriller goes viral - watch</a>

It was one of the best performances from Pandya in the blue jersey as he once again proved why he is one of the best all-rounders in white-ball cricket at present. After bagging the Man of the Match award for his impressive outing, Pandya recalled India's clash against Pakistan in Asia Cup 2018 where he had to be stretchered&nbsp;off after an injury and expressed gratitude over&nbsp;his redemption.

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From <a href="https://twitter.com/hardikpandya7?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@hardikpandya7</a>'s emotional Asia Cup journey to <a href="https://twitter.com/imjadeja?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imjadeja</a>'s solid batting display! 
 
The all-rounder duo chat up after <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> win their <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AsiaCup2022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AsiaCup2022</a> opener against Pakistan - by <a href="https://twitter.com/ameyatilak?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ameyatilak</a> 
 
Full interview <a href="https://t.co/efJHpc4dBo">https://t.co/efJHpc4dBo</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvPAK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvPAK</a> <a href="https://t.co/MJOij6bDRl">pic.twitter.com/MJOij6bDRl</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1564107956358000640?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 29, 2022</a></blockquote>
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"I was recalling everything. I was taken out on a stretcher. The same dressing room. You know, you feel a sense of achievement because the things that have happened and after that getting an opportunity like this... so the journey is very beautiful," Pandya told Jadeja in a video shared by BCCI.

"In the last over, seven runs didn't seem too much for me because it was a left-arm spinner and five fielders were in. So all that didn't matter to me because even if there were 10 fielders outside, I had to hit," he added.

&nbsp;

Former India captain Virat Kohli lauded all-rounder Hardik Pandya after his match-winning heroics against Pakistan in the team's Asia Cup 2022 opener on Sunday (August 28).

Former India captain Virat Kohli lauded all-rounder Hardik Pandya after his match-winning heroics against Pakistan in the team's Asia Cup 2022 opener on Sunday (August 28). Pandya shone with the bat and the ball as India defeated Pakistan by 5 wickets in a last-over thriller at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai. Pandya delivered an exceptional spell with the ball to finish with figures of 3/25 in his four overs before playing a match-winning knock of unbeaten 33 off just 17 balls to take India home in the pressure run chase. Pandya came out to bat at number six and remained unbeaten till the end to take India over the line in style with a six in the final over. India were in a tricky spot in their pursuit of the target of 149 runs at 89/4 in the 15th over when Pandya joined Ravindra Jadeja in the middle. The duo shared a 52-run stand for the fifth wicket and took India closer to the victory line before Jadeja ended up losing his wicket on the very first delivery of the final over. Also Read: 'Even if we needed 15, I'd have fancied myself': Hardik Pandya after India edge past Pakistan in Asia Cup However, with 7 to get off the final five balls, Pandya showed nerves of steel and smacked a six on the 4th delivery from Mohammad Nawaz to help India win with two balls to spare. Hardik was praised by many, including his teammate and former captain Kohli, who took to his Instagram story to hail him as a champion. Also Read: Hardik's savage response to Dinesh Karthik in last-over of IND vs PAK thriller goes viral - watch It was one of the best performances from Pandya in the blue jersey as he once again proved why he is one of the best all-rounders in white-ball cricket at present. After bagging the Man of the Match award for his impressive outing, Pandya recalled India's clash against Pakistan in Asia Cup 2018 where he had to be stretchered off after an injury and expressed gratitude over his redemption. From @hardikpandya7's emotional Asia Cup journey to @imjadeja's solid batting display! The all-rounder duo chat up after #TeamIndia win their #AsiaCup2022 opener against Pakistan - by @ameyatilak Full interview https://t.co/efJHpc4dBo #INDvPAK pic.twitter.com/MJOij6bDRl — BCCI (@BCCI) August 29, 2022 × "I was recalling everything. I was taken out on a stretcher. The same dressing room. You know, you feel a sense of achievement because the things that have happened and after that getting an opportunity like this... so the journey is very beautiful," Pandya told Jadeja in a video shared by BCCI. "In the last over, seven runs didn't seem too much for me because it was a left-arm spinner and five fielders were in. So all that didn't matter to me because even if there were 10 fielders outside, I had to hit," he added.

'Champion': Virat Kohli hails Hardik Pandya after all-rounder's match-winning heroics against Pakistan

Hardik Pandya was the star performer for Team India when they opened their campaign in the Asia Cup 2022 edition, locking horns with Babar Azam's Pakistan at the Duvai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai on Sunday evening (August 28). After Bhuvneshwar Kumar's 4 for 26 and Hardik's 3-fer dismissed Pakistan for 147 in 19.5 overs, as Men in Blue opted to bowl first, India rode on Ravindra Jadeja's 29-ball 35 and Hardik's 17-ball 33 not out to achieve a thrilling five-wicket win infront of a jam-packed crowd at the venue.&nbsp;

Hardik came out to bat with India reduced to 89-4, following spinner Mohammad Nawaz's twin strikes, in the 15th over of the run-chase. He stitched a valuable 52-run stand for the fifth-wicket with Jadeja before losing his partner on the first ball of the last over, with 7 required for a victory. Jadeja went for the aerial shot but didn't connect as Nawaz struck once again to bring the match alive. With Dinesh Karthik coming in, preferred over Rishabh Pant in the playing XI, he gave the strike to Hardik on the next ball. The 28-year-old drove the following delivery powerfully but failed to close the game. With six required off three deliveries, Karthik said something to Hardik whose confident nod went viral in no time. On the next ball, the all-rounder connected and slammed a huge six over long-on to finish the run-chase in style.&nbsp;

Here's the video of Hardik's savage response to DK:

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The <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HardikPandya?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HardikPandya</a> "...paathukalaam" GIF 🔥🧊 <a href="https://t.co/hX29qHJEAr">pic.twitter.com/hX29qHJEAr</a>
— Ganesh Ramachandran (@aLastWordFreak) <a href="https://twitter.com/aLastWordFreak/status/1563956442130165761?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 28, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/afridi-claims-no-one-in-team-india-likes-gautam-gambhir-twitterati-unimpressed-with-harbhajans-reaction-511075">Afridi claims 'no one in Team India likes Gautam Gambhir', Twitterati unimpressed with Harbhajan's reaction</a>

At the post-match presentation, Hardik opined, "In bowling, it's important to assess the situations and use your weapons. For me, bowling short and the hard lengths have been my strengths. It's about using them well and asking the right questions to make the batters commit a mistake. In a chase like this, you always plan over-by-over. I always knew that there is one young bowler and also one left-arm spinner. We only needed 7 off the last over but even if we needed 15, I'd have fancied myself. I know the bowler is under more pressure than me in the 20th over. I try to keep things simple."

India will next face Hong Kong on Wednesday (August 31) at the same venue before the action moves to the Super Four round in the 2022 Asia Cup, in the UAE.

Hardik Pandya was the star performer for Team India when they opened their campaign in the Asia Cup 2022 edition, locking horns with Babar Azam's Pakistan at the Duvai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai on Sunday evening (August 28).

Hardik Pandya was the star performer for Team India when they opened their campaign in the Asia Cup 2022 edition, locking horns with Babar Azam's Pakistan at the Duvai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai on Sunday evening (August 28). After Bhuvneshwar Kumar's 4 for 26 and Hardik's 3-fer dismissed Pakistan for 147 in 19.5 overs, as Men in Blue opted to bowl first, India rode on Ravindra Jadeja's 29-ball 35 and Hardik's 17-ball 33 not out to achieve a thrilling five-wicket win infront of a jam-packed crowd at the venue. Hardik came out to bat with India reduced to 89-4, following spinner Mohammad Nawaz's twin strikes, in the 15th over of the run-chase. He stitched a valuable 52-run stand for the fifth-wicket with Jadeja before losing his partner on the first ball of the last over, with 7 required for a victory. Jadeja went for the aerial shot but didn't connect as Nawaz struck once again to bring the match alive. With Dinesh Karthik coming in, preferred over Rishabh Pant in the playing XI, he gave the strike to Hardik on the next ball. The 28-year-old drove the following delivery powerfully but failed to close the game. With six required off three deliveries, Karthik said something to Hardik whose confident nod went viral in no time. On the next ball, the all-rounder connected and slammed a huge six over long-on to finish the run-chase in style. Here's the video of Hardik's savage response to DK: The #HardikPandya "...paathukalaam" GIF 🔥🧊 pic.twitter.com/hX29qHJEAr — Ganesh Ramachandran (@aLastWordFreak) August 28, 2022 × ALSO READ | Afridi claims 'no one in Team India likes Gautam Gambhir', Twitterati unimpressed with Harbhajan's reaction At the post-match presentation, Hardik opined, "In bowling, it's important to assess the situations and use your weapons. For me, bowling short and the hard lengths have been my strengths. It's about using them well and asking the right questions to make the batters commit a mistake. In a chase like this, you always plan over-by-over. I always knew that there is one young bowler and also one left-arm spinner. We only needed 7 off the last over but even if we needed 15, I'd have fancied myself. I know the bowler is under more pressure than me in the 20th over. I try to keep things simple." India will next face Hong Kong on Wednesday (August 31) at the same venue before the action moves to the Super Four round in the 2022 Asia Cup, in the UAE.

Asia Cup: Hardik's savage response to Dinesh Karthik in last-over of IND vs PAK thriller goes viral - watch

Virat Kohli's lean patch has been a huge concern for the Indian team with the T20 World Cup just a couple of months away. Kohli has been far from his best for the Indian team across formats for a while now and has struggled for consistency. The batting maestro will be making his comeback in the ongoing Asia Cup 2022 after a short hiatus from cricket.

Kohli last featured for the Indian team during their tour of England last month where his poor form with the willow continued as the batting maestro managed only 76 runs across one Test, two ODIs and as many T20Is. Kohli was subsequently rested from India's tour of West Indies and Zimbabwe and is set to mark his return in India's opener against Pakistan at Asia Cup 2022 on Sunday (August 28).

It has been a difficult few months for Kohli, who recently admitted he was struggling mentally due to his poor form and didn't touch a bat for a month for the first time in ten years during his recent break. Amid his rough patch, Kohli has once again found support from Pakistan captain Babar Azam.

Babar, who had earlier shared a tweet extending his support to the under-fire India superstar, once again backed Kohli to spark a turnaround in the Asia Cup. Babar said every cricketer has to go through ups and downs in his career and Kohli remains one of the best batters in the world despite his current struggles.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-can-create-the-hype-i-will-focus-on-the-match-rohit-sharma-ahead-of-high-pressure-pakistan-clash-510809">You can create the hype, I will focus on the match: Rohit Sharma ahead of high-pressure Pakistan clash</a>

"Nothing is easy in life. There are challenges everywhere. It is up to you how you achieve things in life and how you overcome the challenges you face. Virat is still one of the best batters world cricket," Babar said on the eve of the India-Pakistan clash in Asia Cup 2022.

"How you compete against a player like him, and that too in different conditions, is very important. Every cricketer, if you ask me, faces ups and downs in their career. It's not that there is only success and no failures. You really need a strong mindset to handle things in life that often do not go in your favour," he added.

Babar, who has been one of the most consistent performers for Pakistan across formats since taking charge of the team, also spoke about his team's chances against India. Pakistan had defeated India comprehensively by ten wickets in the last meeting between the two sides at the same venue in the T20 World Cup last year.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-might-be-thinking-of-revenge-pakistan-head-coach-issues-warning-to-babar-co-ahead-of-india-clash-510801">'India might be thinking of revenge': Pakistan head coach issues warning to Babar &amp; Co. ahead of India clash</a>

However, Babar believes the game is a thing of the past now and the meeting between the arch-rivals in the Asia Cup 2022 presents a fresh challenge. The Pakistan skipper said his team is not focused on the past but confident to prove their mettle on the field on Sunday.

"Honestly, that game is a thing of past now. It won't have an impact on Sunday's match. I am completely focused on tomorrow's game. The teams are kind of different, the conditions are different. Although as a side we are confident, we won't talk big ahead of the game. We wish to prove it on the field. As a captain, I am ready to give my 100 per cent," Babar said.

"Every cricket lover around the world waits for this clash. We, as cricketers also enjoy taking part in it. Both the teams try their best to keep their respective fans happy," he added.

Virat Kohli's lean patch has been a huge concern for the Indian team with the T20 World Cup just a couple of months away. Kohli has been far from his best for the Indian team across formats for a while now and has struggled for consistency.

Virat Kohli's lean patch has been a huge concern for the Indian team with the T20 World Cup just a couple of months away. Kohli has been far from his best for the Indian team across formats for a while now and has struggled for consistency. The batting maestro will be making his comeback in the ongoing Asia Cup 2022 after a short hiatus from cricket. Kohli last featured for the Indian team during their tour of England last month where his poor form with the willow continued as the batting maestro managed only 76 runs across one Test, two ODIs and as many T20Is. Kohli was subsequently rested from India's tour of West Indies and Zimbabwe and is set to mark his return in India's opener against Pakistan at Asia Cup 2022 on Sunday (August 28). It has been a difficult few months for Kohli, who recently admitted he was struggling mentally due to his poor form and didn't touch a bat for a month for the first time in ten years during his recent break. Amid his rough patch, Kohli has once again found support from Pakistan captain Babar Azam. Babar, who had earlier shared a tweet extending his support to the under-fire India superstar, once again backed Kohli to spark a turnaround in the Asia Cup. Babar said every cricketer has to go through ups and downs in his career and Kohli remains one of the best batters in the world despite his current struggles. Also Read: You can create the hype, I will focus on the match: Rohit Sharma ahead of high-pressure Pakistan clash "Nothing is easy in life. There are challenges everywhere. It is up to you how you achieve things in life and how you overcome the challenges you face. Virat is still one of the best batters world cricket," Babar said on the eve of the India-Pakistan clash in Asia Cup 2022. "How you compete against a player like him, and that too in different conditions, is very important. Every cricketer, if you ask me, faces ups and downs in their career. It's not that there is only success and no failures. You really need a strong mindset to handle things in life that often do not go in your favour," he added. Babar, who has been one of the most consistent performers for Pakistan across formats since taking charge of the team, also spoke about his team's chances against India. Pakistan had defeated India comprehensively by ten wickets in the last meeting between the two sides at the same venue in the T20 World Cup last year. Also Read: 'India might be thinking of revenge': Pakistan head coach issues warning to Babar & Co. ahead of India clash However, Babar believes the game is a thing of the past now and the meeting between the arch-rivals in the Asia Cup 2022 presents a fresh challenge. The Pakistan skipper said his team is not focused on the past but confident to prove their mettle on the field on Sunday. "Honestly, that game is a thing of past now. It won't have an impact on Sunday's match. I am completely focused on tomorrow's game. The teams are kind of different, the conditions are different. Although as a side we are confident, we won't talk big ahead of the game. We wish to prove it on the field. As a captain, I am ready to give my 100 per cent," Babar said. "Every cricket lover around the world waits for this clash. We, as cricketers also enjoy taking part in it. Both the teams try their best to keep their respective fans happy," he added.

Virat Kohli is still one of the best: Babar Azam backs under-fire India superstar ahead of Asia Cup meeting

Mohammad Nabi-led Afghanistan outplayed Sri Lanka in all three departments of the game to register an eight-wicket victory in the opening game of the Asia Cup 2022 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Saturday.

Hazratullah Zazai smashed 37* while Rahmanullah Gurbaz played a knock of 40 runs. For Sri Lanka, Hazratullah Zazai bagged one wicket.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-enjoys-candid-interaction-with-babar-azam-ahead-of-highly-anticipated-asia-cup-clash-510735" hreflang="en">Rohit Sharma enjoys candid interaction with Babar Azam ahead of highly anticipated Asia Cup clash</a>

Chasing a score of 106, Afghanistan got off to a flying start as their openers Hazratullah Zazai and Rahmanullah Gurbaz gathered 83 runs without losing a wicket. The duo hammered Sri Lanka bowlers all around the ground, smashing fours and sixes.

The partnership of 83 runs was broken when Wanindu Hasaranga de Silva dismissed Gurbaz who scored&nbsp;40 runs in 18 deliveries. Ibrahim Zadran then joined the opener and played some big shots.

In the 10th over, Zadran was run out by Maheesh Theekshana after scoring 5 runs in 13 balls. Najibullah Zadran then came to bat,&nbsp;and took a single as&nbsp;Afghanistan made 106 runs in just 10.1 overs to clinch the match by 8 wickets. Earlier, Sri Lanka lost their top five batters within 10 overs and the team was tottering at 60/5.

The top batting order of Lanka, including&nbsp;Pathum Nissanka (3), Kusal Mendis (2) and Charith Asalanka (0) were dismissed cheaply. Bhanuka Rajapaksa and Danushka Gunthilaka added 44 runs for the fourth wicket before Danushka Gunathilaka was dismissed on 17 runs.

Rajapaksa played a crucial knock of 38 runs in 29 deliveries. However, he was run out by Mohammad Nabi.

After Rajapaksa`s wicket, most of the middle and lower order failed to score and were sent back to the pavilion without any batter getting into double figures.

Only Chamika Karunaratne tried to dominate Afghanistan bowlers, playing a crucial knock of 31 runs to take his team`s total over 100-run mark.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-learn-from-mistakes-rohit-sharma-on-how-t20-world-cup-loss-to-pakistan-affected-indias-asia-cup-prep-510755" hreflang="en">‘You learn from mistakes’- Rohit Sharma on how T20 World Cup loss to Pakistan affected India's Asia Cup prep</a>

Fazalhaq Farooqi took the last wicket to bundle out Sri Lanka for 105 in 19.4 overs on a wicket that appeared friendly for a spin attack.

Brief score: Sri Lanka 105 (Bhanuka Rajapaksa 38, Chamika Karunaratne 31; Fazalhaq Farooqi 3-11) vs Afghanistan (Rahmanullah Gurbaz 40, Hazratullah Zazai 37*; Hazratullah Zazai 1-19.)

Mohammad Nabi-led Afghanistan outplayed Sri Lanka in all three departments of the game to register an eight-wicket victory in the opening game of the Asia Cup 2022 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Saturday.

Mohammad Nabi-led Afghanistan outplayed Sri Lanka in all three departments of the game to register an eight-wicket victory in the opening game of the Asia Cup 2022 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Saturday. Hazratullah Zazai smashed 37* while Rahmanullah Gurbaz played a knock of 40 runs. For Sri Lanka, Hazratullah Zazai bagged one wicket. ALSO READ: Rohit Sharma enjoys candid interaction with Babar Azam ahead of highly anticipated Asia Cup clash Chasing a score of 106, Afghanistan got off to a flying start as their openers Hazratullah Zazai and Rahmanullah Gurbaz gathered 83 runs without losing a wicket. The duo hammered Sri Lanka bowlers all around the ground, smashing fours and sixes. The partnership of 83 runs was broken when Wanindu Hasaranga de Silva dismissed Gurbaz who scored 40 runs in 18 deliveries. Ibrahim Zadran then joined the opener and played some big shots. In the 10th over, Zadran was run out by Maheesh Theekshana after scoring 5 runs in 13 balls. Najibullah Zadran then came to bat, and took a single as Afghanistan made 106 runs in just 10.1 overs to clinch the match by 8 wickets. Earlier, Sri Lanka lost their top five batters within 10 overs and the team was tottering at 60/5. The top batting order of Lanka, including Pathum Nissanka (3), Kusal Mendis (2) and Charith Asalanka (0) were dismissed cheaply. Bhanuka Rajapaksa and Danushka Gunthilaka added 44 runs for the fourth wicket before Danushka Gunathilaka was dismissed on 17 runs. Rajapaksa played a crucial knock of 38 runs in 29 deliveries. However, he was run out by Mohammad Nabi. After Rajapaksa`s wicket, most of the middle and lower order failed to score and were sent back to the pavilion without any batter getting into double figures. Only Chamika Karunaratne tried to dominate Afghanistan bowlers, playing a crucial knock of 31 runs to take his team`s total over 100-run mark. ALSO READ: ‘You learn from mistakes’- Rohit Sharma on how T20 World Cup loss to Pakistan affected India's Asia Cup prep Fazalhaq Farooqi took the last wicket to bundle out Sri Lanka for 105 in 19.4 overs on a wicket that appeared friendly for a spin attack. Brief score: Sri Lanka 105 (Bhanuka Rajapaksa 38, Chamika Karunaratne 31; Fazalhaq Farooqi 3-11) vs Afghanistan (Rahmanullah Gurbaz 40, Hazratullah Zazai 37*; Hazratullah Zazai 1-19.)

Afghanistan stun Sri Lanka, score easy 8-wicket win in Asia Cup opening clash

Pakistan brought an end to their losing streak against India in World Cup matches last year after thrashing the Men in Blue by ten wickets in the T20 World Cup 2021. Babar Azam &amp; Co. produced a stunning all-round performance to outclass their arch-rivals and snap their 12-match losing streak.

India&nbsp;are all set to lock horns with Pakistan for the first time since the disappointing defeat in their Asia Cup 2022 opener in Dubai on Sunday (August 28). The arch-rivals will be looking to get the better of each other and get off to a winning start in what promises to be a blockbuster clash.

Ahead of the crucial encounter, Pakistan head coach Saqlain Mushtaq issued a warning to his team and advised them not to dwell on the past. Mushtaq said Pakistan can look back to their comprehensive 10-wicket victory at the T20 World Cup last year to seek positives but facing India at the Asia Cup this year is an entirely different challenge.

"You definitely look at the past to get some positives and understand what better you could have done. India might be thinking of revenge for their defeat last year. But as far as Pakistan is concerned, I think they will know that they can't dwell on the past and be over-excited as it is all about a new day and a new challenge that lies ahead," Mushtaq told Sportskeeda.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-pakistan-asia-cup-2022-date-match-time-predicted-playing-xis-and-live-streaming-details-510711">India vs Pakistan, Asia Cup 2022: Date, match time, predicted playing XIs and live streaming details</a>

Both India and Pakistan will start the tournament as favourites having performed well in the Asia Cup over the year. While Pakistan are missing the services of pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi, India will be without their best fast bowler in Jasprit Bumrah. Both teams will hope for youngsters to soak in the pressure and deliver in the high-profile game.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-dont-have-jasprit-bumrah-sourav-ganguly-reacts-to-shaheen-afridis-absence-from-india-pakistan-clash-510725">'We also don't have Jasprit Bumrah': Sourav Ganguly reacts to Shaheen Afridi's absence</a>

India have won on four occasions in the last five meetings against Pakistan in the Asia Cup and defeated the Men in Green by 5 wickets in the only T20I game between them in the tournament. Despite missing Bumrah, India have enough firepower in their line-up to outclass Pakistan in Dubai on Sunday.

Pakistan brought an end to their losing streak against India in World Cup matches last year after thrashing the Men in Blue by ten wickets in the T20 World Cup 2021.

Pakistan brought an end to their losing streak against India in World Cup matches last year after thrashing the Men in Blue by ten wickets in the T20 World Cup 2021. Babar Azam & Co. produced a stunning all-round performance to outclass their arch-rivals and snap their 12-match losing streak. India are all set to lock horns with Pakistan for the first time since the disappointing defeat in their Asia Cup 2022 opener in Dubai on Sunday (August 28). The arch-rivals will be looking to get the better of each other and get off to a winning start in what promises to be a blockbuster clash. Ahead of the crucial encounter, Pakistan head coach Saqlain Mushtaq issued a warning to his team and advised them not to dwell on the past. Mushtaq said Pakistan can look back to their comprehensive 10-wicket victory at the T20 World Cup last year to seek positives but facing India at the Asia Cup this year is an entirely different challenge. "You definitely look at the past to get some positives and understand what better you could have done. India might be thinking of revenge for their defeat last year. But as far as Pakistan is concerned, I think they will know that they can't dwell on the past and be over-excited as it is all about a new day and a new challenge that lies ahead," Mushtaq told Sportskeeda. Also Read: India vs Pakistan, Asia Cup 2022: Date, match time, predicted playing XIs and live streaming details Both India and Pakistan will start the tournament as favourites having performed well in the Asia Cup over the year. While Pakistan are missing the services of pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi, India will be without their best fast bowler in Jasprit Bumrah. Both teams will hope for youngsters to soak in the pressure and deliver in the high-profile game. Also Read: 'We also don't have Jasprit Bumrah': Sourav Ganguly reacts to Shaheen Afridi's absence India have won on four occasions in the last five meetings against Pakistan in the Asia Cup and defeated the Men in Green by 5 wickets in the only T20I game between them in the tournament. Despite missing Bumrah, India have enough firepower in their line-up to outclass Pakistan in Dubai on Sunday.

'India might be thinking of revenge': Pakistan head coach issues warning to Babar & Co. ahead of India clash

Team India Head Coach Rahul Dravid has reached Dubai for Asia Cup 2022 and has joined the team in the hotel after having tested negative for Covid-19, sources told ANI.

India will take on Pakistan today evening in the ongoing Asia Cup 2022 and revenge will be on the mind of players after suffering a humiliating defeat the last time these two Asian giants collided on cricket pitch. Earlier this week, he tested positive with "mild symptoms" for the virus in a routine test conducted ahead of the team`s departure to the UAE for Asia Cup 2022.

After Dravid being tested positive for Covid, the Board of Control for Cricket in India on Wednesday named VVS Laxman as the interim head coach for Team India (Senior Men) for the important Asia Cup.

So far, both sides have locked horns on nine occasions in T20I matches. India has an edge overall, with wins in seven matches out of these. Pakistan has won only two. But the last time these two met was during the ICC T20 World Cup 2021, in which India suffered a humiliating ten-wicket defeat.

Left-arm pacer Shaheen Afridi destroyed the Indian top order with two quick strikes. Contributions from then-skipper Virat Kohli (57) and Rishabh Pant (39) took India to 151/7 in their 20 overs but knocks from Mohammed Rizwan (79*) and Pakistani skipper Babar Azam (68*) meant that Men in Blue succumbed to a shocking defeat.

India will be looking forward to putting up a big fight this time around. They have been in fantastic form as of late, having defeated England and West Indies in their respective territories in ODI and T20I series. They are also the number one side in T20Is.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-learn-from-mistakes-rohit-sharma-on-how-t20-world-cup-loss-to-pakistan-affected-indias-asia-cup-prep-510755">‘You learn from mistakes’- Rohit Sharma on how T20 World Cup loss to Pakistan affected India's Asia Cup prep</a>

For this, it will be extremely vital for skipper Rohit Sharma, star batters Virat Kohli and KL Rahul to be at peak of their powers and showcase the brutality with their willow that has earned them millions of fans. All eyes will be on Rohit and Virat to regain their best form and play a match-winning knock.

India`s middle order has been seeing a rise of new stars. Suryakumar Yadav and Deepak Hooda are two exciting strikers who can attack from ball one. These two hitters have their chance to etch their names in history in this match against their arch-rivals.

Experienced middle-order batters/all-rounders like Hardik Pandya and Rishabh Pant will also be looking forward to carrying on the fine form they are in. The Indian bowling attack has a lot of depth. In absence of lead pacer Jasprit Bumrah, all eyes will be on Bhuvneshwar Kumar to lead the attack.

He has been superb for India in T20Is this year, especially during powerplays, a phase in which India will look up to him for early strikes. Youngsters Arshdeep Singh and Avesh Khan will have their chance to make an impact as well.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-pakistan-asia-cup-2022-date-match-time-predicted-playing-xis-and-live-streaming-details-510711">India vs Pakistan, Asia Cup 2022: Date, match time, predicted playing XIs and live streaming details</a>

In the spin department, veterans Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja will be leading the attack. They along with Yuzvnedra Chahal and youngster Ravi Bishnoi will have to complement the pace attack well and bamboozle Pakistanis with their deliveries.

Coming to team Pakistan, they are the third-ranked side in ICC T20I rankings and are not to be taken lightly. Their top order has two in-form batters in Babar Azam and Mohammed Rizwan.

Team India Head Coach Rahul Dravid has reached Dubai for Asia Cup 2022 and has joined the team in the hotel after having tested negative for Covid-19, sources told ANI.

Team India Head Coach Rahul Dravid has reached Dubai for Asia Cup 2022 and has joined the team in the hotel after having tested negative for Covid-19, sources told ANI. India will take on Pakistan today evening in the ongoing Asia Cup 2022 and revenge will be on the mind of players after suffering a humiliating defeat the last time these two Asian giants collided on cricket pitch. Earlier this week, he tested positive with "mild symptoms" for the virus in a routine test conducted ahead of the team`s departure to the UAE for Asia Cup 2022. After Dravid being tested positive for Covid, the Board of Control for Cricket in India on Wednesday named VVS Laxman as the interim head coach for Team India (Senior Men) for the important Asia Cup. So far, both sides have locked horns on nine occasions in T20I matches. India has an edge overall, with wins in seven matches out of these. Pakistan has won only two. But the last time these two met was during the ICC T20 World Cup 2021, in which India suffered a humiliating ten-wicket defeat. Left-arm pacer Shaheen Afridi destroyed the Indian top order with two quick strikes. Contributions from then-skipper Virat Kohli (57) and Rishabh Pant (39) took India to 151/7 in their 20 overs but knocks from Mohammed Rizwan (79*) and Pakistani skipper Babar Azam (68*) meant that Men in Blue succumbed to a shocking defeat. India will be looking forward to putting up a big fight this time around. They have been in fantastic form as of late, having defeated England and West Indies in their respective territories in ODI and T20I series. They are also the number one side in T20Is. Also Read: ‘You learn from mistakes’- Rohit Sharma on how T20 World Cup loss to Pakistan affected India's Asia Cup prep For this, it will be extremely vital for skipper Rohit Sharma, star batters Virat Kohli and KL Rahul to be at peak of their powers and showcase the brutality with their willow that has earned them millions of fans. All eyes will be on Rohit and Virat to regain their best form and play a match-winning knock. India`s middle order has been seeing a rise of new stars. Suryakumar Yadav and Deepak Hooda are two exciting strikers who can attack from ball one. These two hitters have their chance to etch their names in history in this match against their arch-rivals. Experienced middle-order batters/all-rounders like Hardik Pandya and Rishabh Pant will also be looking forward to carrying on the fine form they are in. The Indian bowling attack has a lot of depth. In absence of lead pacer Jasprit Bumrah, all eyes will be on Bhuvneshwar Kumar to lead the attack. He has been superb for India in T20Is this year, especially during powerplays, a phase in which India will look up to him for early strikes. Youngsters Arshdeep Singh and Avesh Khan will have their chance to make an impact as well. Also Read: India vs Pakistan, Asia Cup 2022: Date, match time, predicted playing XIs and live streaming details In the spin department, veterans Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja will be leading the attack. They along with Yuzvnedra Chahal and youngster Ravi Bishnoi will have to complement the pace attack well and bamboozle Pakistanis with their deliveries. Coming to team Pakistan, they are the third-ranked side in ICC T20I rankings and are not to be taken lightly. Their top order has two in-form batters in Babar Azam and Mohammed Rizwan.

Asia Cup: Head coach Rahul Dravid tests negative for COVID-19, joins team ahead of India-Pakistan clash

Former Indian skipper Virat Kohli recently managed to etch his name in cricket folklore as he became the first Indian cricketer to make appearances in 100 matches in every single format of the sport, ODI, Test and T20.&nbsp;

In addition to reaching the top of the food chain in the national cricketing circuit, Kohli also managed to equal New Zealand's&nbsp;cricketing legend Ross Taylor's record for the same, effectively becoming the second cricketer of all time to achieve the feat.

Up until now there have only been a handful of players, 13, who can boast of owning the distinction of having competed in 100 or more T20I matches in the world. However, Taylor, and now Kohli,&nbsp;are now the only players who have the achieved the feat across all platforms.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ravichandran-ashwin-claims-shaheen-afridi-could-have-bagged-a-hefty-14-15-crore-contract-in-ipl-510896" hreflang="en">Ravichandran Ashwin claims Shaheen Afridi could have bagged a hefty '14-15 crore' contract in IPL</a>

As far as particular tallies are concerned, Kohli has recorded 102 Test appearances and 262 ODI appearances, sporting the iconic Indian&nbsp;jersey. His clash against arch-rivals Pakistan to kick off Team India's Asia Cup campaign marked his 100th T20I appearance.

Kohli made his debut in the T20I format against Zimbabwe back in June 2010. He has since gone on to record&nbsp;3308 runs in the format at an average of 50.12.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-pakistan-live-cricket-score-asia-cup-2022-rohit-sharma-babar-azam-virat-kohli-dubai-510908" hreflang="en">India vs Pakistan, Asia Cup 2022 LIVE updates: Rohit Sharma wins toss, opts to bowl first</a>

In addition to his latest record, Kohli is the third-highest run-scorer in the shortest format of the game. Furthermore, he is one of four players who have scored over 3000 runs in the T20I format.

Kohli, who up until recently, was hailed as one of the finest batsmen in the world, is currently struggling through a rough patch as far as scoring international centuries is concerned.

His dry spell has now lasted over a 1000 days. However, he will hope to turn the tables on his fortunes as he returns to active contention with his mind refreshed after a short hiatus, during which he missed two tours.&nbsp;

Former Indian skipper Virat Kohli recently managed to etch his name in cricket folklore as he became the first Indian cricketer to make appearances in 100 matches in every single format of the sport, ODI, Test and T20.

Former Indian skipper Virat Kohli recently managed to etch his name in cricket folklore as he became the first Indian cricketer to make appearances in 100 matches in every single format of the sport, ODI, Test and T20. In addition to reaching the top of the food chain in the national cricketing circuit, Kohli also managed to equal New Zealand's cricketing legend Ross Taylor's record for the same, effectively becoming the second cricketer of all time to achieve the feat. Up until now there have only been a handful of players, 13, who can boast of owning the distinction of having competed in 100 or more T20I matches in the world. However, Taylor, and now Kohli, are now the only players who have the achieved the feat across all platforms. ALSO READ: Ravichandran Ashwin claims Shaheen Afridi could have bagged a hefty '14-15 crore' contract in IPL As far as particular tallies are concerned, Kohli has recorded 102 Test appearances and 262 ODI appearances, sporting the iconic Indian jersey. His clash against arch-rivals Pakistan to kick off Team India's Asia Cup campaign marked his 100th T20I appearance. Kohli made his debut in the T20I format against Zimbabwe back in June 2010. He has since gone on to record 3308 runs in the format at an average of 50.12. ALSO READ: India vs Pakistan, Asia Cup 2022 LIVE updates: Rohit Sharma wins toss, opts to bowl first In addition to his latest record, Kohli is the third-highest run-scorer in the shortest format of the game. Furthermore, he is one of four players who have scored over 3000 runs in the T20I format. Kohli, who up until recently, was hailed as one of the finest batsmen in the world, is currently struggling through a rough patch as far as scoring international centuries is concerned. His dry spell has now lasted over a 1000 days. However, he will hope to turn the tables on his fortunes as he returns to active contention with his mind refreshed after a short hiatus, during which he missed two tours.

India vs Pakistan: Virat Kohli becomes first Indian cricketer to play 100 matches in all three formats

India's Ravichandran Ashwin recently offered his take on Shaheen Afridi and his athletic prowess, claiming that he would fetch a hefty price if he participated in the IPL.&nbsp;

Afridi previously demolished&nbsp;India's India's top order to wreck their 2021 ICC T20 World Cup. However, the Men in Blue can breathe a sigh of relief as he has been ruled out of Pakistan's Asia Cup squad due to an injury.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-might-be-thinking-of-revenge-pakistan-head-coach-issues-warning-to-babar-co-ahead-of-india-clash-510801" hreflang="en">'India might be thinking of revenge': Pakistan head coach issues warning to Babar &amp; Co. ahead of India clash</a>

Ashwin recently revealed&nbsp;how Pakistan's team will be affected by his absence as they get ready to kick off their Asia Cup campaign against arch-rivals India.

"Shadab Khan and Haris Rauf bowled well the last time we faced Pakistan, but it was Shaheen Afridi's opening burst that broke the game at the top. A major setback for them ahead of this game is Afridi's injury."

He subsequently offered fans some insight into Afridi's prospects in the IPL auction, claiming that he could have commanded a price of about 14-15 crores.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-was-touched-by-the-way-indian-players-met-shaheen-afridi-visuals-were-heartwarming-babar-azam-510874" hreflang="en">I was touched by the way Indian players met Shaheen Afridi, visuals were heartwarming: Babar Azam</a>

"I have thought a lot about how crazy it would have been if Shaheen Afridi had been there in an IPL auction. A tall left-arm seamer who sets the game with the new ball and also unleashes yorkers at the death. He might have gone for 14-15 crore had he been there at the IPL auction," said Ashwin.

Despite Afridi's absence, Ashwin believes The Shaheens have what it takes to offer any team in the tournament a run for their money. He further hailed the Men in Green as some of the most talented players in the world.

India's Ravichandran Ashwin recently offered his take on Shaheen Afridi and his athletic prowess, claiming that he would fetch a hefty price if he participated in the IPL.

India's Ravichandran Ashwin recently offered his take on Shaheen Afridi and his athletic prowess, claiming that he would fetch a hefty price if he participated in the IPL. Afridi previously demolished India's India's top order to wreck their 2021 ICC T20 World Cup. However, the Men in Blue can breathe a sigh of relief as he has been ruled out of Pakistan's Asia Cup squad due to an injury. ALSO READ: 'India might be thinking of revenge': Pakistan head coach issues warning to Babar & Co. ahead of India clash Ashwin recently revealed how Pakistan's team will be affected by his absence as they get ready to kick off their Asia Cup campaign against arch-rivals India. "Shadab Khan and Haris Rauf bowled well the last time we faced Pakistan, but it was Shaheen Afridi's opening burst that broke the game at the top. A major setback for them ahead of this game is Afridi's injury." He subsequently offered fans some insight into Afridi's prospects in the IPL auction, claiming that he could have commanded a price of about 14-15 crores. ALSO READ: I was touched by the way Indian players met Shaheen Afridi, visuals were heartwarming: Babar Azam "I have thought a lot about how crazy it would have been if Shaheen Afridi had been there in an IPL auction. A tall left-arm seamer who sets the game with the new ball and also unleashes yorkers at the death. He might have gone for 14-15 crore had he been there at the IPL auction," said Ashwin. Despite Afridi's absence, Ashwin believes The Shaheens have what it takes to offer any team in the tournament a run for their money. He further hailed the Men in Green as some of the most talented players in the world.

Ravichandran Ashwin claims Shaheen Afridi could have bagged a hefty '14-15 crore' contract in IPL

Virat Kohli is all set to become the first Indian to complete the milestone of playing 100 matches across all three formats of the game. While the former Indian captain has already played over 100 matches each in Tests and ODIs, he will make his 100th appearance for the Indian team in T20Is in the ongoing Asia Cup 2022 on Sunday (August 28).

India's opening game against Pakistan in the Asia Cup will be Kohli's 100th T20I for the Men in Blue. Kohli will be making his comeback in the Asia Cup after a short break from the game amid his lean patch with the willow. He last featured for India on their tour of England last month.

Ahead of his milestone game, Kohli's good friend and his former Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) teammate AB de Villiers sent him a heartfelt message congratulating him on the achievement.&nbsp;

“I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate my very good friend Virat Kohli on becoming the first Indian cricket player to play 100 matches across all three formats. What an amazing achievement Virat! We are all very proud of you and all the very best in your 100th T20 International game. We will be watching you”, said AB de Villiers in a video posted by Star Sports.

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.<a href="https://twitter.com/ABdeVilliers17?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ABdeVilliers17</a> has a special message for his close friend <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> ahead of his 100th T20I! 
 
DP World <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AsiaCup2022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AsiaCup2022</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvPAK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvPAK</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BelieveInBlue?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BelieveInBlue</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GreatestRivalry?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GreatestRivalry</a> <a href="https://t.co/nG0VbOo27O">pic.twitter.com/nG0VbOo27O</a>
— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/StarSportsIndia/status/1563769290444120064?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 28, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/a-look-at-winners-of-last-eight-editions-of-asia-cup-508930">A look at winners of last eight editions of Asia Cup</a>

Another South African legend and Kohli's current RCB teammate Faf du Plessis also congratulated Kohli ahead of his 100th T20I for India.&nbsp;

“Hello Virat, I want to send a quick video message to say congrats on your 100th T20 International. Now that you are becoming the first Indian cricketer o play 100 over all three formats, another fantastic achievement that you can add to the list of all the amazing things you have already done," said Du Plessis.

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A 𝐅𝐚𝐟-𝐭𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐜 message on this fantastic day for <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a>! 
 
Hear what <a href="https://twitter.com/faf1307?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@faf1307</a> has to say to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KingKohli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KingKohli</a> before he takes the field on this milestone day!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BelieveInBlue?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BelieveInBlue</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GreatestRivalry?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GreatestRivalry</a> <a href="https://t.co/se8aPlNtO9">pic.twitter.com/se8aPlNtO9</a>
— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/StarSportsIndia/status/1563791128238899201?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 28, 2022</a></blockquote>
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"But I am also looking forward to see the next few years, what you are going to come up with, what are the special things we are going to see from you. I know that there is a lot left in that tank of yours and I am excited to see it. Congratulations and good luck for the Asia Cup," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-was-touched-by-the-way-indian-players-met-shaheen-afridi-visuals-were-heartwarming-babar-azam-510874">I was touched by the way Indian players met Shaheen Afridi, visuals were heartwarming: Babar Azam</a>

Kohli, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest batters of all time, has so far played 102 Tests, 262 ODIs and 99 T20Is in his international career. He has 8074, 12344 and 3308 runs in the three formats respectively. Kohli has been one of the most prolific run-getters for India over the years, but his recent dip in form has led to questions over his place in India's T20 squad.

However, Kohli retains the faith of captain Rohit Sharma and the Indian team management, who have backed him constantly. The under-fire superstar will be hoping to return to form in the Asia Cup with just a couple of months left for the T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia this year.

Virat Kohli is all set to become the first Indian to complete the milestone of playing 100 matches across all three formats of the game. While the former Indian captain has already played over 100 matches each in Tests and ODIs, he will make his 100th appearance for the Indian team in T20Is in the ongoing Asia Cup 2022 on Sunday (August 28).

Virat Kohli is all set to become the first Indian to complete the milestone of playing 100 matches across all three formats of the game. While the former Indian captain has already played over 100 matches each in Tests and ODIs, he will make his 100th appearance for the Indian team in T20Is in the ongoing Asia Cup 2022 on Sunday (August 28). India's opening game against Pakistan in the Asia Cup will be Kohli's 100th T20I for the Men in Blue. Kohli will be making his comeback in the Asia Cup after a short break from the game amid his lean patch with the willow. He last featured for India on their tour of England last month. Ahead of his milestone game, Kohli's good friend and his former Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) teammate AB de Villiers sent him a heartfelt message congratulating him on the achievement. “I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate my very good friend Virat Kohli on becoming the first Indian cricket player to play 100 matches across all three formats. What an amazing achievement Virat! We are all very proud of you and all the very best in your 100th T20 International game. We will be watching you”, said AB de Villiers in a video posted by Star Sports. .@ABdeVilliers17 has a special message for his close friend @imVkohli ahead of his 100th T20I! DP World #AsiaCup2022 | #INDvPAK | #TeamIndia | #BelieveInBlue | #GreatestRivalry pic.twitter.com/nG0VbOo27O — Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) August 28, 2022 × Also Read: A look at winners of last eight editions of Asia Cup Another South African legend and Kohli's current RCB teammate Faf du Plessis also congratulated Kohli ahead of his 100th T20I for India. “Hello Virat, I want to send a quick video message to say congrats on your 100th T20 International. Now that you are becoming the first Indian cricketer o play 100 over all three formats, another fantastic achievement that you can add to the list of all the amazing things you have already done," said Du Plessis. A 𝐅𝐚𝐟-𝐭𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐜 message on this fantastic day for @imVkohli! Hear what @faf1307 has to say to #KingKohli before he takes the field on this milestone day!#BelieveInBlue #GreatestRivalry pic.twitter.com/se8aPlNtO9 — Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) August 28, 2022 × "But I am also looking forward to see the next few years, what you are going to come up with, what are the special things we are going to see from you. I know that there is a lot left in that tank of yours and I am excited to see it. Congratulations and good luck for the Asia Cup," he added. Also Read: I was touched by the way Indian players met Shaheen Afridi, visuals were heartwarming: Babar Azam Kohli, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest batters of all time, has so far played 102 Tests, 262 ODIs and 99 T20Is in his international career. He has 8074, 12344 and 3308 runs in the three formats respectively. Kohli has been one of the most prolific run-getters for India over the years, but his recent dip in form has led to questions over his place in India's T20 squad. However, Kohli retains the faith of captain Rohit Sharma and the Indian team management, who have backed him constantly. The under-fire superstar will be hoping to return to form in the Asia Cup with just a couple of months left for the T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia this year.

WATCH: AB de Villiers sends heartfelt message to Virat Kohli ahead of former India captain's 100th T20I

India and Pakistan players have been spotted exchanging pleasantries and meeting each other with warmth ahead of the clash between the two sides in the ongoing Asia Cup 2022. While the hype sorrounding the much-awaited clash between the two rivals has hit the peak, the players have ensured the rivalry is limited to the field as they remain cordial off it.

Team India stars like Virat Kohli, Yuzvendra Chahal and KL Rahul among others were seen catching up with injured Pakistan pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi on the sidelines of the two teams' training session on Friday. The Indian players checked on Afridi, who will not take part in the tournament due to a knee injury.

Ahead of the marquee clash, Pakistan captain Babar Azam admitted he was touched by Indian players' gesture for injured Afridi and said the visuals of their meeting was heartwarming. However, the Pakistan skipper made it clear the friendship will be kept aside when the two teams lock horns on the pitch.

“I was actually touched by the way they met Shaheen Shah Afridi during Thursday's training session and expressed their support to him. The visuals of the players interacting with each other were also heartwarming and reflected the respect and friendship they enjoy. But on the match day, everything will be kept aside and players from either side will come hard at each other in an effort to overpower the other," Babar said in an official release shared by Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-pakistan-a-look-at-results-of-last-five-meetings-between-the-arch-rivals-in-asia-cup-510843">India vs Pakistan: A look at results of last five meetings between the arch-rivals in Asia Cup</a>

India and Pakistan will renew their raivlry at the Asia Cup for the first time in ten months. Pakistan hammered India by ten wickets when the two teams last met at the T20 World Cup this year. However, when it comes to the head-to-ead record between the two teams in the Asia Cup, India leads 8-5 against the Men in Green.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-enjoys-candid-interaction-with-babar-azam-ahead-of-highly-anticipated-asia-cup-clash-510735">Rohit Sharma enjoys candid interaction with Babar Azam ahead of highly anticipated Asia Cup clash</a>

In the last edition of the tournament, India defeated Pakistan twice on their way to lifting the title under Rohit Sharma's captaincy. The Men in Blue will be looking to repeat their feat once again this year with Rohit in charge of the side once again. India have won the Asia Cup a record seven times, and are the most successful team in the tournament's history.

Both India and Pakistan will be looking to get off to a winning start when they take on each other in the much-awaited clash at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai on Sunday (August 28).

India and Pakistan players have been spotted exchanging pleasantries and meeting each other with warmth ahead of the clash between the two sides in the ongoing Asia Cup 2022.

India and Pakistan players have been spotted exchanging pleasantries and meeting each other with warmth ahead of the clash between the two sides in the ongoing Asia Cup 2022. While the hype sorrounding the much-awaited clash between the two rivals has hit the peak, the players have ensured the rivalry is limited to the field as they remain cordial off it. Team India stars like Virat Kohli, Yuzvendra Chahal and KL Rahul among others were seen catching up with injured Pakistan pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi on the sidelines of the two teams' training session on Friday. The Indian players checked on Afridi, who will not take part in the tournament due to a knee injury. Ahead of the marquee clash, Pakistan captain Babar Azam admitted he was touched by Indian players' gesture for injured Afridi and said the visuals of their meeting was heartwarming. However, the Pakistan skipper made it clear the friendship will be kept aside when the two teams lock horns on the pitch. “I was actually touched by the way they met Shaheen Shah Afridi during Thursday's training session and expressed their support to him. The visuals of the players interacting with each other were also heartwarming and reflected the respect and friendship they enjoy. But on the match day, everything will be kept aside and players from either side will come hard at each other in an effort to overpower the other," Babar said in an official release shared by Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). Also Read: India vs Pakistan: A look at results of last five meetings between the arch-rivals in Asia Cup India and Pakistan will renew their raivlry at the Asia Cup for the first time in ten months. Pakistan hammered India by ten wickets when the two teams last met at the T20 World Cup this year. However, when it comes to the head-to-ead record between the two teams in the Asia Cup, India leads 8-5 against the Men in Green. Also Read: Rohit Sharma enjoys candid interaction with Babar Azam ahead of highly anticipated Asia Cup clash In the last edition of the tournament, India defeated Pakistan twice on their way to lifting the title under Rohit Sharma's captaincy. The Men in Blue will be looking to repeat their feat once again this year with Rohit in charge of the side once again. India have won the Asia Cup a record seven times, and are the most successful team in the tournament's history. Both India and Pakistan will be looking to get off to a winning start when they take on each other in the much-awaited clash at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai on Sunday (August 28).

I was touched by the way Indian players met Shaheen Afridi, visuals were heartwarming: Babar Azam

The biggest rivalry in cricket is set to resume as India and Pakistan take on each other in the ongoing Asia Cup 2022. The arch-rivals will lock horns in their tournament opener at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai on August 28 (Sunday). This will be the first meeting between the two teams in ten months.

Pakistan got the better of India when the two teams last met at the T20 World Cup last where Shaheen Afridi's sensational spell followed by two brilliant half-centuries from Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan helped Pakistan register a thumping ten-wicket win against the Men in Blue.

While not much has changed for Pakistan since then, India have undergone a massive transformation under captain Rohit Sharma. With a young bowling attack and in-form middle-order, India would be hoping to continue their stellar run under Rohit in the Asia Cup. India are yet to lose a T20I series since Rohit took charge as permanent captain last year.

When it comes to the head-to-head record between the two teams in the Asia Cup, India enjoy an advantage with eight wins in a total of 15 meetings. Pakistan have won five matches against the Men in Blue while two games ended in a tie. India are the most successful team in Asia Cup history with seven titles while Pakistan have managed only two titles so far.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/a-look-at-winners-of-last-eight-editions-of-asia-cup-508930">A look at winners of last eight editions of Asia Cup</a>

Here is a look at the results of the last five meetings between India and Pakistan in the Asia Cup:

Asia Cup 2012 - India beat Pakistan by 6 wickets

MS Dhoni-led India defeated Pakistan by six wickets in their clash at the Asia Cup 2012. Batting first, Pakistan rode on centuries from openers Mohammad Hafeez (105) and Nasir Jamshed (112) to post a big total of 329 runs on the board. However, Virat Kohli single-handedly won India the game with a stunning knock of 183 runs.

Asia Cup 2014 - Pakistan beat India by 1 wicket

It was a thrilling showdown between the two arch-rivals in Asia Cup 2014 where Pakistan got the better of India by one wicket. Half-centuries from Rohit Sharma, Ambati Rayudu and Ravindra Jadeja propelled India to a total of 245 runs. However, Pakistan chase down the target in the last over with a wicket to spare to clinch a thrilling win.

Asia Cup 2016 - India thrash Pakistan by 5 wickets

The 2016 edition of the Asia Cup saw India and Pakistan meet for the first time in the T20 format in the tournament. An exceptional bowling effort from India saw MS Dhoni &amp; Co. bundle out Pakistan for a paltry 83 runs inside 18 overs. India then chased down the target comfortably with 4.3 overs to spare and won the game by 5 wickets.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-is-still-one-of-the-best-babar-azam-backs-under-fire-india-superstar-ahead-of-asia-cup-meeting-510826">Virat Kohli is still one of the best: Babar Azam backs under-fire India superstar ahead of Asia Cup meeting</a>

Asia Cup 2018 - India beat Pakistan by 8 wickets

India registered yet another dominant win over Pakistan in their first meeting with the arch-rivals in Asia Cup 2018. Indian pacers ran riot to skittle out Pakistan for 162 runs in 43.1 overs before half-centuries from openers Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan sealed a comfortable 8-wicket win for the Men in Blue.

Asia Cup 2018 - India beat Pakistan by 9 wickets

India met Pakistan for the second time during the Super Four stage in Asia Cup 2018 where Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. defeated the Men in Green once againby nine wickets. India restricted Pakistan on 237/7 before Rohit and Dhawan slammed centuries apiece to propel India to a big win.

The biggest rivalry in cricket is set to resume as India and Pakistan take on each other in the ongoing Asia Cup 2022. The arch-rivals will lock horns in their tournament opener at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai on August 28 (Sunday).

The biggest rivalry in cricket is set to resume as India and Pakistan take on each other in the ongoing Asia Cup 2022. The arch-rivals will lock horns in their tournament opener at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai on August 28 (Sunday). This will be the first meeting between the two teams in ten months. Pakistan got the better of India when the two teams last met at the T20 World Cup last where Shaheen Afridi's sensational spell followed by two brilliant half-centuries from Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan helped Pakistan register a thumping ten-wicket win against the Men in Blue. While not much has changed for Pakistan since then, India have undergone a massive transformation under captain Rohit Sharma. With a young bowling attack and in-form middle-order, India would be hoping to continue their stellar run under Rohit in the Asia Cup. India are yet to lose a T20I series since Rohit took charge as permanent captain last year. When it comes to the head-to-head record between the two teams in the Asia Cup, India enjoy an advantage with eight wins in a total of 15 meetings. Pakistan have won five matches against the Men in Blue while two games ended in a tie. India are the most successful team in Asia Cup history with seven titles while Pakistan have managed only two titles so far. Also Read: A look at winners of last eight editions of Asia Cup Here is a look at the results of the last five meetings between India and Pakistan in the Asia Cup: Asia Cup 2012 - India beat Pakistan by 6 wickets MS Dhoni-led India defeated Pakistan by six wickets in their clash at the Asia Cup 2012. Batting first, Pakistan rode on centuries from openers Mohammad Hafeez (105) and Nasir Jamshed (112) to post a big total of 329 runs on the board. However, Virat Kohli single-handedly won India the game with a stunning knock of 183 runs. Asia Cup 2014 - Pakistan beat India by 1 wicket It was a thrilling showdown between the two arch-rivals in Asia Cup 2014 where Pakistan got the better of India by one wicket. Half-centuries from Rohit Sharma, Ambati Rayudu and Ravindra Jadeja propelled India to a total of 245 runs. However, Pakistan chase down the target in the last over with a wicket to spare to clinch a thrilling win. Asia Cup 2016 - India thrash Pakistan by 5 wickets The 2016 edition of the Asia Cup saw India and Pakistan meet for the first time in the T20 format in the tournament. An exceptional bowling effort from India saw MS Dhoni & Co. bundle out Pakistan for a paltry 83 runs inside 18 overs. India then chased down the target comfortably with 4.3 overs to spare and won the game by 5 wickets. Also Read: Virat Kohli is still one of the best: Babar Azam backs under-fire India superstar ahead of Asia Cup meeting Asia Cup 2018 - India beat Pakistan by 8 wickets India registered yet another dominant win over Pakistan in their first meeting with the arch-rivals in Asia Cup 2018. Indian pacers ran riot to skittle out Pakistan for 162 runs in 43.1 overs before half-centuries from openers Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan sealed a comfortable 8-wicket win for the Men in Blue. Asia Cup 2018 - India beat Pakistan by 9 wickets India met Pakistan for the second time during the Super Four stage in Asia Cup 2018 where Rohit Sharma & Co. defeated the Men in Green once againby nine wickets. India restricted Pakistan on 237/7 before Rohit and Dhawan slammed centuries apiece to propel India to a big win.

India vs Pakistan: A look at results of last five meetings between the arch-rivals in Asia Cup

Former India captain Virat Kohli has said he wants to make his team win at any cost even if it means he has to walk off the ground gasping for breath. A livewire on the pitch, Kohli never shies away from taking the attack to the opposition and his aggressive approach has often worked wonders for the batting maestro.

He has not enjoyed the best of form lately and has been struggling for consistency amid intense criticism from all corners. Kohli will be making his comeback for India in the upcoming Asia Cup 2022 after a short hiatus from cricket as he looks to bounce back and bring an end to his lean patch with the willow.

In an interaction with BCCI, Kohli opened up on self-introspection after taking a break from cricket and said his love for the game is what helps him maintain his intensity on the field. India's opener against Pakistan in Asia Cup 2022 will mark Kohli's 100th T20I for the Men in Blue.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/reliving-virat-kohlis-glittering-t20i-numbers-ahead-of-his-100th-match-during-indo-pak-asia-cup-showdown-510411">Reliving Virat Kohli's glittering T20I numbers ahead of his 100th match during Indo-Pak Asia Cup showdown</a>

"I'm a person who wakes up and feels okay, let's see what the day has for me and be part of everything that I'm doing through the day with absolute presence and involvement and happiness. That's how it has always been," Kohli said in a video shared by BCCI.

"People ask me a lot - 'how do you do this on the field and carry on with so much intensity?' I just tell them that I love playing the game , I love the fact that I have so much to contribute every ball and I give every inch of my energy in the field," he explained.

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Up close and personal with <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a>! 
 
Coming back from a break, Virat Kohli speaks about the introspection, the realisation and his way forward! 
 
Full interview coming up on <a href="https://t.co/Z3MPyeKtDz">https://t.co/Z3MPyeKtDz</a> 
 
Watch this space for more <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AsiaCup2022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AsiaCup2022</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AsiaCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AsiaCup</a> <a href="https://t.co/fzZS2XH1r1">pic.twitter.com/fzZS2XH1r1</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1563368202830225408?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 27, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Kohli said making his team win in every game remains his sole motivation and he likes to give his all every time he takes the field, even if it means he has to come out gasping for breath. The former India captain has not made impactful contributions with the bat for a while now but is ready to push himself in the upcoming Asia Cup 2022.

"For me, it never felt abnormal. People within the team ask me 'how do you keep up with it?' and I just say one simple thing that I want to make my team win at any cost and if that means I am gasping for breathe when I walk off the field so be it because that's the kind of preparation I go through to be able to play like that," said Kohli.

"So, that was not happening naturally and I had to push myself but I just didn't know it," he went on.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kohli-is-a-big-player-sourav-ganguly-reveals-former-indian-skipper-needs-to-score-for-himself-510496">'Kohli is a big player'- Sourav Ganguly reveals former Indian skipper needs to score 'for himself'</a>

Kohli's last appearance for the Indian team came during their tour of England earlier this year where he found it tough to get going against the hosts across all three formats. The senior batter only managed 76 runs across one Test, two ODIs and two T20Is&nbsp;in what was a disappointing tour for the former India captain.

Former India captain Virat Kohli has said he wants to make his team win at any cost even if it means he has to walk off the ground gasping for breath. A livewire on the pitch, Kohli never shies away from taking the attack to the opposition and his aggressive approach has often worked wonders for the batting maestro.

Former India captain Virat Kohli has said he wants to make his team win at any cost even if it means he has to walk off the ground gasping for breath. A livewire on the pitch, Kohli never shies away from taking the attack to the opposition and his aggressive approach has often worked wonders for the batting maestro. He has not enjoyed the best of form lately and has been struggling for consistency amid intense criticism from all corners. Kohli will be making his comeback for India in the upcoming Asia Cup 2022 after a short hiatus from cricket as he looks to bounce back and bring an end to his lean patch with the willow. In an interaction with BCCI, Kohli opened up on self-introspection after taking a break from cricket and said his love for the game is what helps him maintain his intensity on the field. India's opener against Pakistan in Asia Cup 2022 will mark Kohli's 100th T20I for the Men in Blue. Also Read: Reliving Virat Kohli's glittering T20I numbers ahead of his 100th match during Indo-Pak Asia Cup showdown "I'm a person who wakes up and feels okay, let's see what the day has for me and be part of everything that I'm doing through the day with absolute presence and involvement and happiness. That's how it has always been," Kohli said in a video shared by BCCI. "People ask me a lot - 'how do you do this on the field and carry on with so much intensity?' I just tell them that I love playing the game , I love the fact that I have so much to contribute every ball and I give every inch of my energy in the field," he explained. Up close and personal with @imVkohli! Coming back from a break, Virat Kohli speaks about the introspection, the realisation and his way forward! Full interview coming up on https://t.co/Z3MPyeKtDz Watch this space for more #TeamIndia | #AsiaCup2022 | #AsiaCup pic.twitter.com/fzZS2XH1r1 — BCCI (@BCCI) August 27, 2022 × Kohli said making his team win in every game remains his sole motivation and he likes to give his all every time he takes the field, even if it means he has to come out gasping for breath. The former India captain has not made impactful contributions with the bat for a while now but is ready to push himself in the upcoming Asia Cup 2022. "For me, it never felt abnormal. People within the team ask me 'how do you keep up with it?' and I just say one simple thing that I want to make my team win at any cost and if that means I am gasping for breathe when I walk off the field so be it because that's the kind of preparation I go through to be able to play like that," said Kohli. "So, that was not happening naturally and I had to push myself but I just didn't know it," he went on. Also Read: 'Kohli is a big player'- Sourav Ganguly reveals former Indian skipper needs to score 'for himself' Kohli's last appearance for the Indian team came during their tour of England earlier this year where he found it tough to get going against the hosts across all three formats. The senior batter only managed 76 runs across one Test, two ODIs and two T20Is in what was a disappointing tour for the former India captain.

Want to make my team win at any cost, even if I am gasping for breathe when I walk off the field: Virat Kohli

Pakistan suffered a huge setback ahead of the start of the Asia Cup 2022 as fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi had to pull out of the tournament due to an injury. Afridi has been one of the vital cogs in the Pakistan bowling attack for a few years now and his absence will certainly hamper Pakistan's chances in the competition.

Afridi was the destructor-in-chief for Pakistan when Babar Azam &amp; Co. faced India at the T20 World Cup last year. The left-arm pacer ran through India's top-order bagging a three-wicket haul to set up Pakistan's first win against their arch-rivals in a World Cup match.

However, he is set to miss Pakistan's opening game against India in the Asia Cup 2022 on Sunday (August 28). While many believe his absence is a huge advantage for India, BCCI president Sourav Ganguly feels one player cannot make much of a difference in a game between India and Pakistan.

The former India captain also pointed out India too will miss the services of their star pacer Jasprit Bumrah. "I don't think one player can make a difference. It's teamwork. We also don't have Jasprit Bumrah,” Ganguly told India Today.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/heartwarming-pakistan-fan-requests-rohit-sharma-for-a-special-hug-indian-captain-obliges-watch-510624">Heartwarming! Pakistan fan requests Rohit Sharma for a special hug, Indian captain obliges - WATCH</a>

Afridi's absence from the tournament has been one of the major talking points in the Pakistan cricket fraternity ahead of the Asia Cup clash against India. The fast bowler has been a prolific wicket-taker for the Men in Green across formats over the last couple of years and could have made an impact for his team against Rohit Sharma's men.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-pakistan-asia-cup-2022-date-match-time-predicted-playing-xis-and-live-streaming-details-510711">India vs Pakistan, Asia Cup 2022: Date, match time, predicted playing XIs and live streaming details</a>

While Pakistan will miss Afridi, India will miss their best fast bowler in Bumrah, who was left out due to back issues. Along with Bumrah, India are also missing the services of right-arm pacer Harshal Patel due to an injury and the onus will on Bhuvneshwar Kumar to lead India's pace attack against Pakistan.

Along with Bhuvneshwar, India have picked Avesh Khan and Arshdeep Singh in their pace battery and will be expecting the young duo to deliver on the big stage.

Pakistan suffered a huge setback ahead of the start of the Asia Cup 2022 as fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi had to pull out of the tournament due to an injury. Afridi has been one of the vital cogs in the Pakistan bowling attack for a few years now and his absence will certainly hamper Pakistan's chances in the competition.

Pakistan suffered a huge setback ahead of the start of the Asia Cup 2022 as fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi had to pull out of the tournament due to an injury. Afridi has been one of the vital cogs in the Pakistan bowling attack for a few years now and his absence will certainly hamper Pakistan's chances in the competition. Afridi was the destructor-in-chief for Pakistan when Babar Azam & Co. faced India at the T20 World Cup last year. The left-arm pacer ran through India's top-order bagging a three-wicket haul to set up Pakistan's first win against their arch-rivals in a World Cup match. However, he is set to miss Pakistan's opening game against India in the Asia Cup 2022 on Sunday (August 28). While many believe his absence is a huge advantage for India, BCCI president Sourav Ganguly feels one player cannot make much of a difference in a game between India and Pakistan. The former India captain also pointed out India too will miss the services of their star pacer Jasprit Bumrah. "I don't think one player can make a difference. It's teamwork. We also don't have Jasprit Bumrah,” Ganguly told India Today. Also Read: Heartwarming! Pakistan fan requests Rohit Sharma for a special hug, Indian captain obliges - WATCH Afridi's absence from the tournament has been one of the major talking points in the Pakistan cricket fraternity ahead of the Asia Cup clash against India. The fast bowler has been a prolific wicket-taker for the Men in Green across formats over the last couple of years and could have made an impact for his team against Rohit Sharma's men. Also Read: India vs Pakistan, Asia Cup 2022: Date, match time, predicted playing XIs and live streaming details While Pakistan will miss Afridi, India will miss their best fast bowler in Bumrah, who was left out due to back issues. Along with Bumrah, India are also missing the services of right-arm pacer Harshal Patel due to an injury and the onus will on Bhuvneshwar Kumar to lead India's pace attack against Pakistan. Along with Bhuvneshwar, India have picked Avesh Khan and Arshdeep Singh in their pace battery and will be expecting the young duo to deliver on the big stage.

'We also don't have Jasprit Bumrah': Sourav Ganguly reacts to Shaheen Afridi's absence

The International Cricket Council on Saturday confirmed Disney Star will be the home of all ICC cricket in India for the next four years having won the TV and digital rights to both men`s and women`s global events through to the end of 2027.

Disney Star won following a single-round sealed bid process which has yielded a significant uplift to the rights fee from the previous cycle continuing the impressive growth and reach of cricket.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-enjoys-candid-interaction-with-babar-azam-ahead-of-highly-anticipated-asia-cup-clash-510735" hreflang="en">Rohit Sharma enjoys candid interaction with Babar Azam ahead of highly anticipated Asia Cup clash</a>

The decision followed a robust tender, bidding and evaluation process, which started in June 2022. ICC Chair Greg Barclay said: "We are delighted to continue to partner with Disney Star as the home of ICC cricket for the next four years which has delivered an outstanding result for our members and will support our ambitious growth plans.

"They will play a crucial role in the future of our sport and connecting and engaging with more fans than ever before. Having a broadcast and digital partner for women`s events in India is a significant step forward in our ambition to accelerate the growth of the women`s game.

"Disney Star presented impressive plans for the promotion of women`s cricket and they clearly share our vision so I`m incredibly excited by the size of the opportunity ahead," he added.

Barclay said this was an incredibly competitive process, which isn`t surprising given the huge audiences that cricket consistently attracts with more than a billion fans that passionately follow the game globally. "I`d like to thank all of the bidders for their interest in and support of cricket," he said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-dont-have-jasprit-bumrah-sourav-ganguly-reacts-to-shaheen-afridis-absence-from-india-pakistan-clash-510725" hreflang="en">'We don't have Jasprit Bumrah': Sourav Ganguly reacts to Shaheen Afridi's absence from India-Pakistan clash</a>

K Madhavan, Country Manager and President, Disney Star said: "We are delighted at being able to continue our association with the International Cricket Council (ICC) and look forward to strengthening our partnership by growing the sport of cricket in the years ahead.

"With the acquisition of the ICC Digital and TV broadcast rights, Disney Star has further strengthened its status as the premier destination for marquee cricket events in the country."

The International Cricket Council on Saturday confirmed Disney Star will be the home of all ICC cricket in India for the next four years having won the TV and digital rights to both men`s and women`s global events through to the end of 2027.

The International Cricket Council on Saturday confirmed Disney Star will be the home of all ICC cricket in India for the next four years having won the TV and digital rights to both men`s and women`s global events through to the end of 2027. Disney Star won following a single-round sealed bid process which has yielded a significant uplift to the rights fee from the previous cycle continuing the impressive growth and reach of cricket. ALSO READ: Rohit Sharma enjoys candid interaction with Babar Azam ahead of highly anticipated Asia Cup clash The decision followed a robust tender, bidding and evaluation process, which started in June 2022. ICC Chair Greg Barclay said: "We are delighted to continue to partner with Disney Star as the home of ICC cricket for the next four years which has delivered an outstanding result for our members and will support our ambitious growth plans. "They will play a crucial role in the future of our sport and connecting and engaging with more fans than ever before. Having a broadcast and digital partner for women`s events in India is a significant step forward in our ambition to accelerate the growth of the women`s game. "Disney Star presented impressive plans for the promotion of women`s cricket and they clearly share our vision so I`m incredibly excited by the size of the opportunity ahead," he added. Barclay said this was an incredibly competitive process, which isn`t surprising given the huge audiences that cricket consistently attracts with more than a billion fans that passionately follow the game globally. "I`d like to thank all of the bidders for their interest in and support of cricket," he said. ALSO READ: 'We don't have Jasprit Bumrah': Sourav Ganguly reacts to Shaheen Afridi's absence from India-Pakistan clash K Madhavan, Country Manager and President, Disney Star said: "We are delighted at being able to continue our association with the International Cricket Council (ICC) and look forward to strengthening our partnership by growing the sport of cricket in the years ahead. "With the acquisition of the ICC Digital and TV broadcast rights, Disney Star has further strengthened its status as the premier destination for marquee cricket events in the country."

Disney Hotstar confirmed as the home for ICC cricket as the platform bags a long-term deal for media rights

India's Rohit Sharma recently caught up with his Pakistani contemporary Babar Azam ahead of their high-octane match under the umbrella of the latest edition of the Asia Cup.

Footage of their light-hearted interaction was shared on social media by the Pakistan Cricket Board as the respective skippers prep their players before they lock horns with each other.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/enjoyed-watching-him-bat-virat-kohli-hails-babar-azam-as-the-best-batsman-across-all-formats-510717" hreflang="en">'Enjoyed watching him bat'- Virat Kohli hails Babar Azam as the best batsman across all formats</a>

Social media has been flooded with footage of wholesome interactions between players of the Indian and Pakistani cricket teams.

Virat Kohli was recently recorded having cheery conversation with star pacer Shaheen Afridi, who has been ruled out of active contention due to an injury.

Kohli also shared a heartwarming moment with the Pakistani skipper as the duo greeted each other, sharing a friendly handshake.

In fact, Virat Kohli even went as far as to regard Babar Azam as one of the most adept batsmen in the international cricketing circuit, hailing him as a top performer.

Kohli further asserted that Azam, in addition to being the most talented batsman across all formats, is an extremely humble and down to Earth individual.

The last time India and Pakistan locked horns with each other in the same venue, it ended up being an extremely one-sided affair, leaning in favour of The Shaheens.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-dont-have-jasprit-bumrah-sourav-ganguly-reacts-to-shaheen-afridis-absence-from-india-pakistan-clash-510725" hreflang="en">'We don't have Jasprit Bumrah': Sourav Ganguly reacts to Shaheen Afridi's absence from India-Pakistan clash</a>

While Babar Azam and his band of speedsters will hope to replicate the same success this time around as well, Rohit Sharma and Co. will work to overcome the challenge presented by the Men in Green.

Rohit Sharma will hope to lead his team to glory, while Virat Kohli will be more focussed on ridding himself of the dark cloud that has been following him for quite some time as his century drought in international cricket persists.

India's Rohit Sharma recently caught up with his Pakistani contemporary Babar Azam ahead of their high-octane match under the umbrella of the latest edition of the Asia Cup.

India's Rohit Sharma recently caught up with his Pakistani contemporary Babar Azam ahead of their high-octane match under the umbrella of the latest edition of the Asia Cup. Footage of their light-hearted interaction was shared on social media by the Pakistan Cricket Board as the respective skippers prep their players before they lock horns with each other. ALSO READ: 'Enjoyed watching him bat'- Virat Kohli hails Babar Azam as the best batsman across all formats Social media has been flooded with footage of wholesome interactions between players of the Indian and Pakistani cricket teams. Virat Kohli was recently recorded having cheery conversation with star pacer Shaheen Afridi, who has been ruled out of active contention due to an injury. Kohli also shared a heartwarming moment with the Pakistani skipper as the duo greeted each other, sharing a friendly handshake. In fact, Virat Kohli even went as far as to regard Babar Azam as one of the most adept batsmen in the international cricketing circuit, hailing him as a top performer. Kohli further asserted that Azam, in addition to being the most talented batsman across all formats, is an extremely humble and down to Earth individual. The last time India and Pakistan locked horns with each other in the same venue, it ended up being an extremely one-sided affair, leaning in favour of The Shaheens. ALSO READ: 'We don't have Jasprit Bumrah': Sourav Ganguly reacts to Shaheen Afridi's absence from India-Pakistan clash While Babar Azam and his band of speedsters will hope to replicate the same success this time around as well, Rohit Sharma and Co. will work to overcome the challenge presented by the Men in Green. Rohit Sharma will hope to lead his team to glory, while Virat Kohli will be more focussed on ridding himself of the dark cloud that has been following him for quite some time as his century drought in international cricket persists.

Rohit Sharma enjoys candid interaction with Babar Azam ahead of highly anticipated Asia Cup clash

Former Indian skipper Virat Kohli recently offered fans some insight into how issues with mentality forced him to take a big&nbsp;step back from cricket in the aftermath of the 2022 tour of England in July.

Kohli, who is currently going through a rough spot with respect to his performance, could only manage a meagre 76 runs across one Test match, two ODIs and 2 T20Is against England.&nbsp;

His shambolic performance forced Kohli to take a break and consequently miss the opportunity to compete in the subsequent tours that India was supposed to participate in, West Indies and Zimbabwe.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-to-return-indias-predicted-playing-xi-for-asia-cup-clash-against-pakistan-510649" hreflang="en">Virat Kohli to return! India's predicted playing XI for Asia Cup clash against Pakistan</a>

"For the first time in 10 years, I didn't touch my bat for a month. I came to realisation that I was trying to fake my intensity a bit recently."

"I was convincing myself that no, you had the intensity. But your body was telling you to stop. The mind was telling me to take a break and step back," said Kohli in a recent interaction with a media house.

Kohli also admitted that he had to shoulder a tremendous amount of weight, carrying the expectations of the&nbsp;nation on his back, something that eventually exacted a heavy toll on him.

He admitted that although he is considered to be one of those players with a formidable mentality, he too can get overwhelmed sometimes.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-doesnt-instill-fear-anymore-pakistan-star-shadab-khan-responds-to-former-india-skippers-critics-510599" hreflang="en">Wish Virat Kohli scores a ton in Asia Cup, but not against us: Pakistan all-rounder Shadab Khan</a>

"I'm not shy to admit that I was feeling mentally down. This is a very normal thing to feel, but we don't speak because we are hesitant."

"We don't want to be looked at as mentally weak. Trust me, faking to be strong is far worse than admitting to be weak," Kohli continued.

However, it seems like all that is past.&nbsp;Virat Kohli is seemingly all set to make his way back to active contention, representing the country in the prestigious Asia Cup.&nbsp;

Former Indian skipper Virat Kohli recently offered fans some insight into how issues with mentality forced him to take a big step back from cricket in the aftermath of the 2022 tour of England in July.

Former Indian skipper Virat Kohli recently offered fans some insight into how issues with mentality forced him to take a big step back from cricket in the aftermath of the 2022 tour of England in July. Kohli, who is currently going through a rough spot with respect to his performance, could only manage a meagre 76 runs across one Test match, two ODIs and 2 T20Is against England. His shambolic performance forced Kohli to take a break and consequently miss the opportunity to compete in the subsequent tours that India was supposed to participate in, West Indies and Zimbabwe. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli to return! India's predicted playing XI for Asia Cup clash against Pakistan "For the first time in 10 years, I didn't touch my bat for a month. I came to realisation that I was trying to fake my intensity a bit recently." "I was convincing myself that no, you had the intensity. But your body was telling you to stop. The mind was telling me to take a break and step back," said Kohli in a recent interaction with a media house. Kohli also admitted that he had to shoulder a tremendous amount of weight, carrying the expectations of the nation on his back, something that eventually exacted a heavy toll on him. He admitted that although he is considered to be one of those players with a formidable mentality, he too can get overwhelmed sometimes. ALSO READ: Wish Virat Kohli scores a ton in Asia Cup, but not against us: Pakistan all-rounder Shadab Khan "I'm not shy to admit that I was feeling mentally down. This is a very normal thing to feel, but we don't speak because we are hesitant." "We don't want to be looked at as mentally weak. Trust me, faking to be strong is far worse than admitting to be weak," Kohli continued. However, it seems like all that is past. Virat Kohli is seemingly all set to make his way back to active contention, representing the country in the prestigious Asia Cup.

For the first time in 10 years, didn't touch the bat for a month: Virat Kohli on recent struggles

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