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

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

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

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

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

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

India men's Asia Cup team arrived at their hotel in Sri Lanka ahead of their first Asia Cup match. The team is staying in Earl Regency in Kandy. They were greeted with dance and music performances at their arrival. India will face Pakistan, their all time greatest rivals in a match tomorrow at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium.

Team India arrive in Sri Lanka ahead of their first match in Asia Cup

India and Pakistan will lock horns in match three of the Asia Cup 2023 edition on Saturday (September 02) in Kandy. The two Asian giants will resume their cricketing rivalry after a memorable face-off in last year's T20 World Cup 2022 edition. Placed in the same group, the two teams met at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground and produced a clash for the ages.

Talking about the marquee affair at the MCG, India opted to bowl first and rode on Hardik Pandya and Arshdeep Singh's three-fers to restrict Pakistan to 159 for 8. In reply, Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. were tottering at 31 for 4 before Virat Kohli (53-ball 82*) and Hardik (37-ball 40)'s 113-run fifth-wicket stand revived the run-chase. Towards the end, Kohli accelerated with some superb strokeplay to take India home with four wickets in hand in&nbsp;a last-ball win over Babar Azam &amp; Co.

<h2>'Don't think any other batsman in the world could have done that'</h2>

Ahead of the Indo-Pak battle in the group stage of the Asia Cup, Pakistan all-rounder Shadab Khan recalled Kohli's masterclass. "He is a world-class player, definitely. You have to plan a lot to face him. Anyway, in international cricket, there are a lot of mind games, because you definitely have the skill to reach that level. But how you read each other's minds, the bowler and the batter, how they read each other's minds, and it also depends on what the situation is," Shadab said on the Star Sports show 'Follow the Blues'.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/even-if-we-lose-to-india-former-pakistan-all-rounders-message-to-babar-co-ahead-of-asia-cup-face-off-631107">'Even if we lose to India': Former Pakistan all-rounder's message to Babar &amp; Co. ahead of Asia Cup face-off</a>

"The kind of batsman that Virat Kohli is, the way he has performed against us, even in the last match at the World Cup, I don't think that if any other batsman in the world was in that situation, could have done that to our bowling line-up. And the beauty of it is that he can do this at any stage and at any time," the white-ball vice-captain&nbsp;added.

In the 2022 T20 WC game, Shadab was the most economical bowler for the Men in Green, returning with 4-0-21-0.&nbsp;However, he could not get rid of Kohli. It will be interesting to see if he gets the better of him this time around. Shadab started the continental tournament with a brilliant four-fer versus Nepal.

For Kohli, he will be Rohit-led India's go-to batter in the Asia Cup. Thus, he would like to start afresh and negate the early threat of Pakistan's lethal pace trio -- Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf and Naseem Shah -- to once again aim for a big score. His ODI&nbsp;record versus the Asian neighbours is very healthy, scoring&nbsp;536 runs -- at&nbsp;48.72 --&nbsp;in 13 innings with two centuries and as many fifties.

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India and Pakistan will lock horns in match three of the Asia Cup 2023 edition on Saturday (September 02) in Kandy. The two Asian giants will resume their cricketing rivalry after a memorable face-off in last year's T20 World Cup 2022 edition.

India and Pakistan will lock horns in match three of the Asia Cup 2023 edition on Saturday (September 02) in Kandy. The two Asian giants will resume their cricketing rivalry after a memorable face-off in last year's T20 World Cup 2022 edition. Placed in the same group, the two teams met at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground and produced a clash for the ages. Talking about the marquee affair at the MCG, India opted to bowl first and rode on Hardik Pandya and Arshdeep Singh's three-fers to restrict Pakistan to 159 for 8. In reply, Rohit Sharma & Co. were tottering at 31 for 4 before Virat Kohli (53-ball 82*) and Hardik (37-ball 40)'s 113-run fifth-wicket stand revived the run-chase. Towards the end, Kohli accelerated with some superb strokeplay to take India home with four wickets in hand in a last-ball win over Babar Azam & Co. 'Don't think any other batsman in the world could have done that' Ahead of the Indo-Pak battle in the group stage of the Asia Cup, Pakistan all-rounder Shadab Khan recalled Kohli's masterclass. "He is a world-class player, definitely. You have to plan a lot to face him. Anyway, in international cricket, there are a lot of mind games, because you definitely have the skill to reach that level. But how you read each other's minds, the bowler and the batter, how they read each other's minds, and it also depends on what the situation is," Shadab said on the Star Sports show 'Follow the Blues'. Also read: 'Even if we lose to India': Former Pakistan all-rounder's message to Babar & Co. ahead of Asia Cup face-off "The kind of batsman that Virat Kohli is, the way he has performed against us, even in the last match at the World Cup, I don't think that if any other batsman in the world was in that situation, could have done that to our bowling line-up. And the beauty of it is that he can do this at any stage and at any time," the white-ball vice-captain added. In the 2022 T20 WC game, Shadab was the most economical bowler for the Men in Green, returning with 4-0-21-0. However, he could not get rid of Kohli. It will be interesting to see if he gets the better of him this time around. Shadab started the continental tournament with a brilliant four-fer versus Nepal. For Kohli, he will be Rohit-led India's go-to batter in the Asia Cup. Thus, he would like to start afresh and negate the early threat of Pakistan's lethal pace trio -- Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf and Naseem Shah -- to once again aim for a big score. His ODI record versus the Asian neighbours is very healthy, scoring 536 runs -- at 48.72 -- in 13 innings with two centuries and as many fifties. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Only he could've done that': Shadab recalls Kohli's T20 WC masterclass before India vs Pakistan Asia Cup tie

Team Pakistan arrived at their hotel in Sri Lanka for their second Asia Cup 2023 match against their all time greatest rival India. They will be staying at The Grand Kandeyan hotel in Kandy. They were greeted with music, dance and some refreshments upon their arrival. The match is all set to happen tomorrow, but some rain predictions do worry the fans.

Team Pakistan arrive at hotel in Sri Lanka for their second match of the Asia Cup

The stage is set for the India-Pakistan clash in the third game of Asia Cup 2023. Both teams will lock horns on Saturday (September 02) in Kandy. While Babar Azam-led Men in Green&nbsp;thrashed Nepal by 238 runs in the tournament opener in Multan, Rohit Sharma-led Team India will&nbsp;kick off their campaign on Saturday. Ahead of the marquee clash, former Pakistan all-rounder Abdul Razzaq has a message for his national side.

While there have been some concerns regarding opener Fakhar Zaman's recent few outings, where he has managed 2, 30, 27 and 14, Pakistan have most of their boxes ticked ahead of the India face-off. There are some talks with regard to Zaman's spot, however, Razzaq feels Pakistan should not tinker their line-up as 'this is the best team'. Moreover, he&nbsp;added that even&nbsp;a loss to India should not change their combination.

Razzaq said on GEO Super, "See, the current Pakistan XI is well-balanced. You have proper batters and all-rounders in the middle order. You have full strength in pace and spin attack. You have everything. You should have the same team, this is the best combination. Even if we lose the match against India, you shouldn't be changing the current team. This is the best team we have."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jasprit-bumrahs-return-has-completed-our-bowling-setup-mohammed-shami-ahead-of-pakistan-tie-in-asia-cup-2023-630949">Jasprit Bumrah's return has completed our bowling setup: Mohammed Shami ahead of Pakistan tie in Asia Cup 2023</a>

Talking about Zaman, the left-hander has been in superb form for the past few years. In his last 15 innings, he has four centuries and a fifty. He would like to forget about his recent few failures and revamp in style versus&nbsp;India, against whom he slammed his maiden hundred in Pakistan's famous win in the 2017 Champions Trophy final.

The Indo-Pak clash might be rain-affected as the forecast for Saturday isn't encouraging in Kandy. As per the weather apps, there is a prediction of a minimum of 91% chance of rain. Thus, fans have their fingers crossed&nbsp;for a drastic change in weather to witness a full game.&nbsp;

The stage is set for the India-Pakistan clash in the third game of Asia Cup 2023. Both teams will lock horns on Saturday (September 02) in Kandy. While Babar Azam-led Men in Green thrashed Nepal by 238 runs in the tournament opener in Multan, Rohit Sharma-led Team India will kick off their campaign on Saturday.

The stage is set for the India-Pakistan clash in the third game of Asia Cup 2023. Both teams will lock horns on Saturday (September 02) in Kandy. While Babar Azam-led Men in Green thrashed Nepal by 238 runs in the tournament opener in Multan, Rohit Sharma-led Team India will kick off their campaign on Saturday. Ahead of the marquee clash, former Pakistan all-rounder Abdul Razzaq has a message for his national side. While there have been some concerns regarding opener Fakhar Zaman's recent few outings, where he has managed 2, 30, 27 and 14, Pakistan have most of their boxes ticked ahead of the India face-off. There are some talks with regard to Zaman's spot, however, Razzaq feels Pakistan should not tinker their line-up as 'this is the best team'. Moreover, he added that even a loss to India should not change their combination. Razzaq said on GEO Super, "See, the current Pakistan XI is well-balanced. You have proper batters and all-rounders in the middle order. You have full strength in pace and spin attack. You have everything. You should have the same team, this is the best combination. Even if we lose the match against India, you shouldn't be changing the current team. This is the best team we have." Also read: Jasprit Bumrah's return has completed our bowling setup: Mohammed Shami ahead of Pakistan tie in Asia Cup 2023 Talking about Zaman, the left-hander has been in superb form for the past few years. In his last 15 innings, he has four centuries and a fifty. He would like to forget about his recent few failures and revamp in style versus India, against whom he slammed his maiden hundred in Pakistan's famous win in the 2017 Champions Trophy final. The Indo-Pak clash might be rain-affected as the forecast for Saturday isn't encouraging in Kandy. As per the weather apps, there is a prediction of a minimum of 91% chance of rain. Thus, fans have their fingers crossed for a drastic change in weather to witness a full game.

'Even if we lose to India': Former Pakistan all-rounder's message to Babar & Co. ahead of Asia Cup face-off

The return of ace Indian seamer Jasprit Bumrah to the white-ball setup has bolstered the bowling attack ahead of the much-anticipated India-Pakistan game in Pallekele, Kandy, on September 2. While addressing the media upon landing in Colombo, his fellow teammate, Mohammed Shami, said Bumrah’s presence has completed the trio (Bumrah, Shami and Siraj) and it all depends now on the team management on who will play on the big day.

Bumrah was out of action since September last year due to a back injury and missed all the action since then, including the 2022 T20 World Cup, IPL 2023 and WTC Final 2023 against Australia. Upon attaining complete fitness, Bumrah returned to the side for the three-match T20I series against Ireland and later got selected for the Asia Cup 2023.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/viacom-18-bags-bcci-rights-media-for-digital-and-tv-for-next-five-years-to-spend-inr-678-crore-per-match-630909">Viacom 18 bags BCCI media rights for digital and TV for next five years, to spend INR 67.8 crore per match</a>

Shami, India’s most experienced seamer off all three, admitted the Indian Team missed Bumrah in the past year.

"For a long time, we didn't have Jassi (Bumrah), so we felt the loss of a good player like him. You sometimes feel like 'I wish this player was there', to make your combination set."

"So having Jassi, especially in the white-ball format, has made our bowling very strong. He's looking fit and he's playing well, hopefully, we have a good Asia Cup," Shami said.

Shami, who has played 90 ODIs, picking 162 wickets, is among a handful of bowlers who is a threat with both new and old ball. Known to be a better Test bowler, mainly for his ability to reverse swing, Shami said he doesn’t have an ego about his bowling, remaining keen to deliver for the team whenever asked.

"I don't have any hesitancy to bowl with the new ball or the old ball. I don't have an ego like that. All three of us (Bumrah, Shami &amp; Siraj) are bowling very well, so it depends on the management on who will play," Shami told Star Sports ahead of the Asia Cup.

"Depends on whether I have the new ball or whether the team requires me at any stage during the match, I'm always on," said India's best exponent of swing bowling in current times,” the right-hand seamer added.

<h2>Bowling in the right area is the only plan</h2>

When asked about his plans to replicate his heroics in white-ball cricket the way he does with the red, Shami said sticking to bowling in the right areas will only bring success irrespective of the format.

"There is too much talk about the white ball or red ball, if you bowl in the right areas, I don't think that there is any difficulty in any ball," Shami said

"There is only one goal, to go and give 100%, the result will come running to us if we give our 100%. So, it is very important to focus and execute, it's a very simple plan," he added.

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The return of ace Indian seamer Jasprit Bumrah to the white-ball setup has bolstered the bowling attack ahead of the much-anticipated India-Pakistan game in Pallekele, Kandy, on September 2.

The return of ace Indian seamer Jasprit Bumrah to the white-ball setup has bolstered the bowling attack ahead of the much-anticipated India-Pakistan game in Pallekele, Kandy, on September 2. While addressing the media upon landing in Colombo, his fellow teammate, Mohammed Shami, said Bumrah’s presence has completed the trio (Bumrah, Shami and Siraj) and it all depends now on the team management on who will play on the big day. Bumrah was out of action since September last year due to a back injury and missed all the action since then, including the 2022 T20 World Cup, IPL 2023 and WTC Final 2023 against Australia. Upon attaining complete fitness, Bumrah returned to the side for the three-match T20I series against Ireland and later got selected for the Asia Cup 2023. ALSO READ: Viacom 18 bags BCCI media rights for digital and TV for next five years, to spend INR 67.8 crore per match Shami, India’s most experienced seamer off all three, admitted the Indian Team missed Bumrah in the past year. "For a long time, we didn't have Jassi (Bumrah), so we felt the loss of a good player like him. You sometimes feel like 'I wish this player was there', to make your combination set." "So having Jassi, especially in the white-ball format, has made our bowling very strong. He's looking fit and he's playing well, hopefully, we have a good Asia Cup," Shami said. Shami, who has played 90 ODIs, picking 162 wickets, is among a handful of bowlers who is a threat with both new and old ball. Known to be a better Test bowler, mainly for his ability to reverse swing, Shami said he doesn’t have an ego about his bowling, remaining keen to deliver for the team whenever asked. "I don't have any hesitancy to bowl with the new ball or the old ball. I don't have an ego like that. All three of us (Bumrah, Shami & Siraj) are bowling very well, so it depends on the management on who will play," Shami told Star Sports ahead of the Asia Cup. "Depends on whether I have the new ball or whether the team requires me at any stage during the match, I'm always on," said India's best exponent of swing bowling in current times,” the right-hand seamer added. Bowling in the right area is the only plan When asked about his plans to replicate his heroics in white-ball cricket the way he does with the red, Shami said sticking to bowling in the right areas will only bring success irrespective of the format. "There is too much talk about the white ball or red ball, if you bowl in the right areas, I don't think that there is any difficulty in any ball," Shami said "There is only one goal, to go and give 100%, the result will come running to us if we give our 100%. So, it is very important to focus and execute, it's a very simple plan," he added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Jasprit Bumrah's return has completed our bowling setup: Mohammed Shami ahead of Pakistan tie in Asia Cup 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ahead of India's tournament-opener in the Asia Cup, versus arch-rivals Pakistan on September 02 in Pallekele in Sri Lanka, former Indian opener Aakash Chopra feels Virat Kohli should continue to bat at No. 3 and isn't in favour of his demotion to No. 4, as suggested by former head coach Ravi Shastri. Chopra feels the former Indian captain is best suited to his preferred spot, i.e. at No. 3, where he has an exceptional record.

It is to be noted that the 34-year-old Kohli has batted at No. 3 in 210 innings and amassed 10,777 runs at an average of 60.21. On the other hand, his record at No. 4 is impressive as well,&nbsp;hitting 1,767 runs in 39 innings&nbsp;at of 55.22. In his latest episode of Aakashvaani on Jio Cinema, Chopra said, “There are two parameters to judge this. First, Virat Kohli’s success at No. 4 is good, but at No. 3 it’s exceptional. A significant sample size reinforces this and his peak equals India’s best. Hopes rest on his tournament performance – if he does well, India benefits; otherwise, a middle-order gap looms. Kohli’s effectiveness shines at No. 3, tackling new balls and closing games. Retaining this is vital."

He further opined, "Just because he has the ability to bat at No. 4 shouldn’t mean that he should play there."

The talk regarding Kohli taking up the No. 4 slot came forward as Rohit Sharma-led India continue to suffer with their middle-order considerably undercooked before the Asia Cup, to be followed by the ODI World Cup in India. Shreyas Iyer and&nbsp;KL Rahul -- who bat at No. 4 and 5 respectively -- have returned after long injury layoffs and would need time to settle down in the line-up. Moreover, India have tried a few backups such as Ishan Kishan, Sanju Samson and Suryakumar Yadav but none have made a strong case. Kishan has a double century but that came while opening the innings, Samson has done reasonably well but continues to throw his wicket away whereas Surya has fell flat in the 50-over format so far.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/my-career-highlight-is-winning-the-2011-odi-world-cup-says-virat-kohli-ahead-of-asia-cup-cwc-23-edition-630159">My career highlight is winning the 2011 ODI World Cup, says Virat Kohli ahead of Asia Cup, CWC '23 edition</a>

With Rahul to be out of the opening few games for India in the Asia Cup, Chopra also named Samson as his backup, not Kishan. In this regard, he added, “If KL Rahul is unavailable, Ishan Kishan’s placement becomes key. Sanju Samson can also replace him as a travel reserve - I am assuming without Rahul, Sanju Samson can enter the team. Given a No. 5 batter is needed, selection should be based on that specific condition. Samson, a middle-order batsman and keeper, should be the backup."

The forthcoming continental tournament begins on August 30 (Wednesday) in Multan, Pakistan whereas India will take on Babar Azam-led Men in Green on Saturday (September 02) in Pallekele, Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

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Ahead of India's tournament-opener in the Asia Cup, versus arch-rivals Pakistan on September 02 in Pallekele in Sri Lanka, former Indian opener Aakash Chopra feels Virat Kohli should continue to bat at No.

Ahead of India's tournament-opener in the Asia Cup, versus arch-rivals Pakistan on September 02 in Pallekele in Sri Lanka, former Indian opener Aakash Chopra feels Virat Kohli should continue to bat at No. 3 and isn't in favour of his demotion to No. 4, as suggested by former head coach Ravi Shastri. Chopra feels the former Indian captain is best suited to his preferred spot, i.e. at No. 3, where he has an exceptional record. It is to be noted that the 34-year-old Kohli has batted at No. 3 in 210 innings and amassed 10,777 runs at an average of 60.21. On the other hand, his record at No. 4 is impressive as well, hitting 1,767 runs in 39 innings at of 55.22. In his latest episode of Aakashvaani on Jio Cinema, Chopra said, “There are two parameters to judge this. First, Virat Kohli’s success at No. 4 is good, but at No. 3 it’s exceptional. A significant sample size reinforces this and his peak equals India’s best. Hopes rest on his tournament performance – if he does well, India benefits; otherwise, a middle-order gap looms. Kohli’s effectiveness shines at No. 3, tackling new balls and closing games. Retaining this is vital." He further opined, "Just because he has the ability to bat at No. 4 shouldn’t mean that he should play there." The talk regarding Kohli taking up the No. 4 slot came forward as Rohit Sharma-led India continue to suffer with their middle-order considerably undercooked before the Asia Cup, to be followed by the ODI World Cup in India. Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul -- who bat at No. 4 and 5 respectively -- have returned after long injury layoffs and would need time to settle down in the line-up. Moreover, India have tried a few backups such as Ishan Kishan, Sanju Samson and Suryakumar Yadav but none have made a strong case. Kishan has a double century but that came while opening the innings, Samson has done reasonably well but continues to throw his wicket away whereas Surya has fell flat in the 50-over format so far. Also read: My career highlight is winning the 2011 ODI World Cup, says Virat Kohli ahead of Asia Cup, CWC '23 edition With Rahul to be out of the opening few games for India in the Asia Cup, Chopra also named Samson as his backup, not Kishan. In this regard, he added, “If KL Rahul is unavailable, Ishan Kishan’s placement becomes key. Sanju Samson can also replace him as a travel reserve - I am assuming without Rahul, Sanju Samson can enter the team. Given a No. 5 batter is needed, selection should be based on that specific condition. Samson, a middle-order batsman and keeper, should be the backup." The forthcoming continental tournament begins on August 30 (Wednesday) in Multan, Pakistan whereas India will take on Babar Azam-led Men in Green on Saturday (September 02) in Pallekele, Sri Lanka. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Virat Kohli shines at No. 3: Ex-India opener not in favour of star batter's demotion ahead of Asia Cup

The Asia Cup 2023 edition is set to kick off on August 30 in Multan, Pakistan. The upcoming edition of the continental tournament will be jointly hosted by Sri Lanka and Pakistan and the whole cricketing fraternity is eagerly waiting for the tournament's commencement, mainly to witness the resumption of India-Pakistan rivalry.

Talking about the 2023 edition, India, Pakistan and Nepal are placed in Group A whereas Sri Lanka, Afghanistan and Bangladesh are in Group B. Ahead of the tournament-opener, where Babar Azam &amp; Co. host Nepal, former Pakistan great Wasim Akram opened up on the favourites for the multi-nation competition and feels every team has a chance.

"India versus Pakistan is very important, we know about so much support (teams get), so many eyeballs, so many people (following). But other teams are also here to play so you cannot minus Sri Lanka or Bangladesh," Akram said, as quoted by PTI.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-2023-shreyas-iyer-opens-up-on-injury-layoff-says-hes-thrilled-to-be-back-watch-629737">Asia Cup 2023: Shreyas Iyer opens up on injury layoff, says he’s ‘thrilled to be back’ - WATCH</a>

On Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue's squad, Akram opined, "I think they are trying different things, new players especially in the T20 format, also a new captain. They have a balanced squad. But it will not be easy for India or any team."

India's 17-man squad marks the return of middle-order batters KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer whereas Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah are set to feature in the playing XI after a gap of 13 months. The tournament is an ideal dress rehearsal for five out of the six&nbsp;Asian teams who will also take part in the forthcoming ODI World Cup, in India, starting on October 05.

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The Asia Cup 2023 edition is set to kick off on August 30 in Multan, Pakistan. The upcoming edition of the continental tournament will be jointly hosted by Sri Lanka and Pakistan and the whole cricketing fraternity is eagerly waiting for the tournament's commencement, mainly to witness the resumption of India-Pakistan rivalry.

The Asia Cup 2023 edition is set to kick off on August 30 in Multan, Pakistan. The upcoming edition of the continental tournament will be jointly hosted by Sri Lanka and Pakistan and the whole cricketing fraternity is eagerly waiting for the tournament's commencement, mainly to witness the resumption of India-Pakistan rivalry. Talking about the 2023 edition, India, Pakistan and Nepal are placed in Group A whereas Sri Lanka, Afghanistan and Bangladesh are in Group B. Ahead of the tournament-opener, where Babar Azam & Co. host Nepal, former Pakistan great Wasim Akram opened up on the favourites for the multi-nation competition and feels every team has a chance. "India versus Pakistan is very important, we know about so much support (teams get), so many eyeballs, so many people (following). But other teams are also here to play so you cannot minus Sri Lanka or Bangladesh," Akram said, as quoted by PTI. Also read: Asia Cup 2023: Shreyas Iyer opens up on injury layoff, says he’s ‘thrilled to be back’ - WATCH On Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue's squad, Akram opined, "I think they are trying different things, new players especially in the T20 format, also a new captain. They have a balanced squad. But it will not be easy for India or any team." India's 17-man squad marks the return of middle-order batters KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer whereas Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah are set to feature in the playing XI after a gap of 13 months. The tournament is an ideal dress rehearsal for five out of the six Asian teams who will also take part in the forthcoming ODI World Cup, in India, starting on October 05. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Won't be easy for India or any team: Former Pakistan great Wasim Akram on Asia Cup 2023 favourites

IND vs. PAK Asia Cup 2023 Tickets: The highly-anticipated India vs Pakistan match in Asia Cup 2023 will happen on Saturday, September 2, at 01:00 PM IST at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Pallekele, Sri Lanka.

IND vs. PAK Asia Cup 2023 Tickets: The highly-anticipated India vs Pakistan match in Asia Cup 2023 will happen on Saturday, September 2, at 01:00 PM IST at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Pallekele, Sri Lanka. Here's how you can book your tickets for the India vs Pakistan Asia Cup 2023 match on September 2. How to book IND vs PAK Asia Cup 2023 Tickets Below is the step-by-step guide to booking tickets for the most-awaited India vs Pakistan Asia Cup 2023 match. Step 1: Visit the official website of Pakistan Cricket Board, pcb.bookme.pk. Step 2: Once you reach the website, look for 'View All Asia Cup 2023 Matches' and click on it. Step 3: When it redirects you to the list of matches, you'll find the 'Pakistan vs India' match. Click on the 'BookMe' option next to it. Step 4: After you've clicked on 'BookMe,' it'll open a panel on the screen, asking you to choose the seat type and number of seats you wish to book. Once you've chosen your desired seats, click on 'BookMe.' Step 5: A new page will open confirming the match, seat type and number of seats you've chosen. When you scroll down, you'll need to fill in the details of the spectators, including your name, passport/form-B number/NIC, mobile number and email address. Step 6: Once you've filled in the relevant information, click 'BOOKME' and proceed with the payment. You can pay using Visa, MasterCard, UnionPay, PayFast, easypaisa or JazzCash. Note: The website says that the spectators must carry their passports/NICs at the venue to prove their identity. Moreover, the entry will begin three hours before the match. Make sure you reach the stadium on time to avoid long queues. ALSO READ | Won't be easy for India or any team: Former Pakistan great Wasim Akram on Asia Cup 2023 favourites IND vs PAK Asia Cup 2023 Ticket Prices Here are the different types of seats available for the India vs Pakistan Asia Cup 2023 match and their prices. Grass Embankment West (Standing) - General: $30 (₹2,500) Grass Embankment (Scoreboard) Standing - General: $30 (₹2,500) Grand Stand Top Level B - V-VIP: $300 (₹25,000) Grand Stand Top Level A- V-VIP: $300 (₹25,000) B Lower - VIP: $125 (₹10,000) A Lower - VIP: $125 (₹10,000) Note: India vs Pakistan Asia Cup 2023 tickets have a high demand. If you wish to watch the match, grab your seats fast. (With inputs from agencies)

Asia Cup 2023: 2 days to Go, How to book India vs Pakistan Asia Cup 2023 Tickets; Check prices

Former India coach Sanjay Bangar warned Team India to consider KL Rahul in the Playing XI only if he is fit to play as a wicketkeeper-batter. The veteran Indian star returned to the team for the Asia Cup 2023 as he tries to prove his fitness for the upcoming ODI World Cup. However, there are doubts over Rahul’s fitness as few predict he won’t be able to keep wickets.

<h2>Bangar opines on Rahul’s role</h2>

"I think keeper batter because no one bowls in the top 5 of Team India, so it means if you want 6 bowling options you should have a player in your top 5 who can bowl or he should be a wicket-keeper batsman. So, I feel if KL Rahul plays the role of a wicket-keeper batsman, I believe then only he should be considered in the playing XI because in that way the team's balance will be maintained," Bangar told Star Sports.

According to Bangar, India should consider players with utility roles in the Playing XI who offer batting and bowling options. The Indian team’s utility factor could play a major role in determining the team’s success during the World Cup. For Rahul, he thinks he should come into the team as a wicketkeeper-batter and offer more to the team.

India have the services of Ishan Kishan, who is most likely to make the ODI World Cup squad as a backup if not first-choice wicketkeeper. Kishan is in great form for the team and offers batting along with donning the keeping gloves. India already have players like Shubman Gill, Rohit Sharma, and Virat Kohli as only batting options and are not relying on their bowling services.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cwc-23-sa-legend-jacques-kallis-predicts-this-english-star-to-be-the-leading-run-getter-629108">CWC '23: SA legend Jacques Kallis predicts THIS English star to be the leading run-getter</a>

<h2>Who could miss out on World Cup squad?</h2>

Currently, the 17-member squad for the Asia Cup will have to prove their worth before it is trimmed to 15 players for the ODI World Cup. The deadline to announce the World Cup squad is soon approaching as the selectors are keeping a close eye on the developments of Shreyas Iyer and Rahul. The selectors are likely to drop one batter and one bowler from the Asia Cup squad to make the final World Cup contingent.

If both Rahul and Iyer prove their fitness in the Asia Cup, Tilak Varma looks to be the natural option to be dropped for the World Cup while Prasidh Krishna could also have to sit at home for the big event in India.

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Former India coach Sanjay Bangar warned Team India to consider KL Rahul in the Playing XI only if he is fit to play as a wicketkeeper-batter. The veteran Indian star returned to the team for the Asia Cup 2023 as he tries to prove his fitness for the upcoming ODI World Cup.

Former India coach Sanjay Bangar warned Team India to consider KL Rahul in the Playing XI only if he is fit to play as a wicketkeeper-batter. The veteran Indian star returned to the team for the Asia Cup 2023 as he tries to prove his fitness for the upcoming ODI World Cup. However, there are doubts over Rahul’s fitness as few predict he won’t be able to keep wickets. Bangar opines on Rahul’s role "I think keeper batter because no one bowls in the top 5 of Team India, so it means if you want 6 bowling options you should have a player in your top 5 who can bowl or he should be a wicket-keeper batsman. So, I feel if KL Rahul plays the role of a wicket-keeper batsman, I believe then only he should be considered in the playing XI because in that way the team's balance will be maintained," Bangar told Star Sports. According to Bangar, India should consider players with utility roles in the Playing XI who offer batting and bowling options. The Indian team’s utility factor could play a major role in determining the team’s success during the World Cup. For Rahul, he thinks he should come into the team as a wicketkeeper-batter and offer more to the team. India have the services of Ishan Kishan, who is most likely to make the ODI World Cup squad as a backup if not first-choice wicketkeeper. Kishan is in great form for the team and offers batting along with donning the keeping gloves. India already have players like Shubman Gill, Rohit Sharma, and Virat Kohli as only batting options and are not relying on their bowling services. ALSO READ | CWC '23: SA legend Jacques Kallis predicts THIS English star to be the leading run-getter Who could miss out on World Cup squad? Currently, the 17-member squad for the Asia Cup will have to prove their worth before it is trimmed to 15 players for the ODI World Cup. The deadline to announce the World Cup squad is soon approaching as the selectors are keeping a close eye on the developments of Shreyas Iyer and Rahul. The selectors are likely to drop one batter and one bowler from the Asia Cup squad to make the final World Cup contingent. If both Rahul and Iyer prove their fitness in the Asia Cup, Tilak Varma looks to be the natural option to be dropped for the World Cup while Prasidh Krishna could also have to sit at home for the big event in India. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

CWC 2023: Former coach worried over batting balance in middle order, says 'if KL Rahul plays the role...'

IN PICS | A look at India's FAIRYTALE dominance over Pakistan in ODI World Cup

With the 2023 50-over World Cup just months away, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to announce the much-awaited schedule in a grand launch following the IPL 2023.

With the 2023 50-over World Cup just months away, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to announce the much-awaited schedule in a grand launch following the IPL 2023. The latest reports have emerged that the high-octane India vs Pakistan clash will take place at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad. In anticipation of a large number of fans travelling from all across the world for the India vs Pakistan match – first time on the Indian soil since 2016, Ahmedabad stays as the front-runner to play host ahead of several other iconic venues like the Eden Gardens in Kolkata and M Chinnaswamy in Bengaluru. With a sitting capacity of over 100,000, this stadium is also the largest in India. ALSO READ: IPL 2023: LSG captain KL Rahul ruled out of the season, remains doubtful for 2023 WTC final As per a report in the Indian Express, the board has zeroed in on 12 tentative venues for the World Cup – scheduled for October-November this year, with Nagpur, Bengaluru, Trivandrum, Mumbai, Delhi, Lucknow, Guwahati, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Rajkot, Indore, Bengaluru and Dharamsala short-listed, even for practice games. Among all these venues, only seven will host Indian team matches, with Ahmedabad being the one to host two – provided Rohit Sharma’s team reach the summit clash. Meanwhile, the report also suggests that Pakistan could play most of their league matches down south – Chennai or Bengaluru, purely for security reasons. Besides, Eden Gardens is also considered the other venue for the Pakistan games. Also, for Bangladesh, Kolkata and Guwahati are considered venues, as it would reduce the travel time of the touring fans. Further, considering the Oct-Nov window being the monsoon season in India, most matches would take place in southern India until the first week of November. BCCI-PCB tussle continues While talks of confirming the venues and schedule are in the final stages, earlier reports suggest that following a verbal argument between boards from neighbouring countries, there could be a scenario that Pakistan might consider against travelling to India for the mega event. It comes as a reciprocation call to BCCI’s decision not to send the Indian team to Pakistan for the scheduled 2023 Asia Cup. Top bosses from both boards sat together earlier during ICC meets but haven’t finalised. The BCCI said India will not travel to Pakistan and instead will play all of its matches at a neutral venue, with UAE being considered as one of the options. The 2023 Asia Cup is slated to take place somewhere around early September.

Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad is likely to host India vs Pakistan 2023 World Cup clash - Reports

Former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria said India for sure is not visiting Pakistan for the 2023 Asia Cup, and if the PCB feels they can conduct the tournament without India and can make revenue out of it, then they must go ahead. However, he added that PCB deciding against travelling to India for the 2023 World Cup later this year in a reciprocal response to BCCI’s take on a similar situation regarding Asia Cup isn’t the right call.

Sharing his thoughts on his YouTube channel, Kaneria said Pakistan must consider hosting the 2023 Asia Cup in Dubai instead and rethink their latest strategy of not travelling to India for the World Cup later this year. He added that Pakistan could face consequences of boycotting the grandest ICC event and that they must avoid doing that.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lucknow-super-giants-coach-andy-flower-opens-up-about-mohsin-khans-future-in-ipl-2023-577583">Lucknow Super Giants coach Andy Flower opens up about Mohsin Khan's future in IPL 2023</a>

“India will definitely not visit Pakistan. If Pakistan think that they can conduct the tournament without India, they should go ahead. But Pakistan not going to the World Cup isn't the right move,” said Kaneria on his YouTube Channel. "If you want to play on the front foot, you have to tackle a lot of out swingers and in swingers. They might have to face some consequences, as the World Cup is an ICC event,” Kaneria added.

Following the latest ACC meeting in Dubai, a few reports emerged that PCB had shown hesitation in travelling to India for the World Cup and that they want their group-stage matches to take place in either Sri Lanka or Bangladesh. Although no official statement from the PCB is out yet.

In response, an ICC source close to the information quashed such a report saying there's no way the World Cup is going out of India, and that all matches will be played as slated.

 
Kaneria said the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) must clear and confirm the venue of the 2023 Asia Cup, which has been under some dark cloud due to political tensions between India and Pakistan.

“The ACC needs to come out and give clarification on the matter. The board should make its stance clear and confirm where the Asia Cup is going to take place. If India refuse to play, and if Pakistan think they can still generate enough revenue, the tournament should go ahead. However, I feel that Pakistan should consider hosting it in Dubai,” Kaneria added.

Former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria said India for sure is not visiting Pakistan for the 2023 Asia Cup, and if the PCB feels they can conduct the tournament without India and can make revenue out of it, then they must go ahead.

Former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria said India for sure is not visiting Pakistan for the 2023 Asia Cup, and if the PCB feels they can conduct the tournament without India and can make revenue out of it, then they must go ahead. However, he added that PCB deciding against travelling to India for the 2023 World Cup later this year in a reciprocal response to BCCI’s take on a similar situation regarding Asia Cup isn’t the right call. Sharing his thoughts on his YouTube channel, Kaneria said Pakistan must consider hosting the 2023 Asia Cup in Dubai instead and rethink their latest strategy of not travelling to India for the World Cup later this year. He added that Pakistan could face consequences of boycotting the grandest ICC event and that they must avoid doing that. ALSO READ: Lucknow Super Giants coach Andy Flower opens up about Mohsin Khan's future in IPL 2023 “India will definitely not visit Pakistan. If Pakistan think that they can conduct the tournament without India, they should go ahead. But Pakistan not going to the World Cup isn't the right move,” said Kaneria on his YouTube Channel. "If you want to play on the front foot, you have to tackle a lot of out swingers and in swingers. They might have to face some consequences, as the World Cup is an ICC event,” Kaneria added. Following the latest ACC meeting in Dubai, a few reports emerged that PCB had shown hesitation in travelling to India for the World Cup and that they want their group-stage matches to take place in either Sri Lanka or Bangladesh. Although no official statement from the PCB is out yet. In response, an ICC source close to the information quashed such a report saying there's no way the World Cup is going out of India, and that all matches will be played as slated. Kaneria said the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) must clear and confirm the venue of the 2023 Asia Cup, which has been under some dark cloud due to political tensions between India and Pakistan. “The ACC needs to come out and give clarification on the matter. The board should make its stance clear and confirm where the Asia Cup is going to take place. If India refuse to play, and if Pakistan think they can still generate enough revenue, the tournament should go ahead. However, I feel that Pakistan should consider hosting it in Dubai,” Kaneria added.

'Not going to India for the 2023 World Cup isn't the right move,' says former Pakistan spinner

Following reports of Pakistan deciding to play its 2023 World Cup group stage matches in Bangladesh in a reciprocal&nbsp;response to BCCI’s decision to play its 2023 Asia Cup matches in UAE instead of Pakistan, which is the official host, the ICC has put all such talks under the mat. Previous reports suggested that this call was taken during the recent ICC meeting in Dubai; however, after reaching out to the game’s governing body for the same, they bashed this information, calling it a 'figment of imagination'.

"No one knows if PCB chief Mr Najam Sethi has had any informal discussions with his Bangladeshi counterpart Najmul Hasan Papon, but this can be said with a degree of certainty that no such discussions happened officially that Pakistan will play in Bangladesh," an ICC board source privy to the developments told PTI on the condition of anonymity.

The source close to this information further added that BCCI, on its part, has provided assurance about providing visas to their Pakistani counterparts for the World Cup. The ICC source also cleared the air relating to Bangladesh co-hosting the World Cup in the abovementioned scenario, saying they are not even in the scheme of things.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ex-bcci-president-sourav-ganguly-backs-star-india-all-rounder-to-make-a-test-comeback-calls-him-an-asset-577142">Ex-BCCI President Sourav Ganguly backs star India all-rounder to make a Test comeback, calls him an asset</a>

"The BCCI has categorically said that there will be no problems with procurement of visas. One of the main points for a host country is that all participating nations will be given visas on time. From ICC's part, Bangladesh is not even in its scheme of things as a co-host as of now," the source said.

Elaborating further on how irrelevant this thought even seems to be, the ICC source said in a case where Pakistan makes it to the semis or even the finals, how could they play those matches in Bangladesh?

"Suppose Pakistan reach the semi-finals or win to play the finals, do they expect the matches to be played in Bangladesh? This is not a theatre of absurd happening," the unnamed ICC source added.

On the other hand, the BCCI top bosses also believe that this ploy from the PCB is laid in response to BCCI’s call on shift in venue for the Indian team for the Asia Cup. 
 
"We understand that this is a kind of pressure tactic applied by PCB because of the Asia Cup issue. But let me tell you, ultimately, Asia Cup will also be played in UAE or Qatar and probably Pakistan will also have to play its matches in one of these countries," a BCCI source said.

Meanwhile, the ICC is yet to announce the schedule of the upcoming 2023 World Cup in India, slated for October-November window.

Following reports of Pakistan deciding to play its 2023 World Cup group stage matches in Bangladesh in a reciprocal response to BCCI’s decision to play its 2023 Asia Cup matches in UAE instead of Pakistan, which is the official host, the ICC has put all such talks under the mat.

Following reports of Pakistan deciding to play its 2023 World Cup group stage matches in Bangladesh in a reciprocal response to BCCI’s decision to play its 2023 Asia Cup matches in UAE instead of Pakistan, which is the official host, the ICC has put all such talks under the mat. Previous reports suggested that this call was taken during the recent ICC meeting in Dubai; however, after reaching out to the game’s governing body for the same, they bashed this information, calling it a 'figment of imagination'. "No one knows if PCB chief Mr Najam Sethi has had any informal discussions with his Bangladeshi counterpart Najmul Hasan Papon, but this can be said with a degree of certainty that no such discussions happened officially that Pakistan will play in Bangladesh," an ICC board source privy to the developments told PTI on the condition of anonymity. The source close to this information further added that BCCI, on its part, has provided assurance about providing visas to their Pakistani counterparts for the World Cup. The ICC source also cleared the air relating to Bangladesh co-hosting the World Cup in the abovementioned scenario, saying they are not even in the scheme of things. ALSO READ: Ex-BCCI President Sourav Ganguly backs star India all-rounder to make a Test comeback, calls him an asset "The BCCI has categorically said that there will be no problems with procurement of visas. One of the main points for a host country is that all participating nations will be given visas on time. From ICC's part, Bangladesh is not even in its scheme of things as a co-host as of now," the source said. Elaborating further on how irrelevant this thought even seems to be, the ICC source said in a case where Pakistan makes it to the semis or even the finals, how could they play those matches in Bangladesh? "Suppose Pakistan reach the semi-finals or win to play the finals, do they expect the matches to be played in Bangladesh? This is not a theatre of absurd happening," the unnamed ICC source added. On the other hand, the BCCI top bosses also believe that this ploy from the PCB is laid in response to BCCI’s call on shift in venue for the Indian team for the Asia Cup. "We understand that this is a kind of pressure tactic applied by PCB because of the Asia Cup issue. But let me tell you, ultimately, Asia Cup will also be played in UAE or Qatar and probably Pakistan will also have to play its matches in one of these countries," a BCCI source said. Meanwhile, the ICC is yet to announce the schedule of the upcoming 2023 World Cup in India, slated for October-November window.

ICC bashes reports of Pakistan playing its 2023 World Cup matches in Bangladesh

In the latest development on BCCI vs PCB tussle over 2023 Asia Cup venue change, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Najam Sethi has said the chances of Men in Green boycotting the Men’s 50-over World Cup later this year are ‘real possibility’, and that, if this continues to happen, it would be a real mess going forward.

In the latest development on BCCI vs PCB tussle over 2023 Asia Cup venue change, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Najam Sethi has said the chances of Men in Green boycotting the Men’s 50-over World Cup later this year are ‘real possibility’, and that, if this continues to happen, it would be a real mess going forward. Owing to long-standing sour political relations between India and Pakistan that saw neither of the teams traveling over to each other’s country for a bilateral series in over a decade now, these two Asian heavyweights only face off during the ICC-related events or in Asia Cup. With Pakistan slated to host 2023 Asia Cup in September, the BCCI refused to send its team across the border and instead asked for the tournament to be moved out of the country. While the PCB, in its response, offered to host India’s matches in the UAE instead under a ‘hybrid model’, with support from Bangladesh and Sri Lankan cricket boards towards BCCI’s decision, this option also got ruled out. ALSO READ: IPL 2023: 'We believe...' - CSK CEO predicts MS Dhoni's future in cash-rich league Speaking exclusively to Reuters, the PCB chief urged the Indian cricket board to find a middle way and not let cricket suffer in all of this. He said if this continues - that India and Pakistan both decide to skip the multi-team tournaments this year, it could lead to a 'real mess.' "They want all the matches in a neutral venue," Sethi said in a Zoom interview with Reuters. "BCCI should take a good, rational decision so that we don't have any problems going forward. India should not be looking at a situation where we end up boycotting the Asia Cup, and also the World Cup, and then India ends up boycotting the Champions Trophy. "That will be a huge mess," Sethi said. On BCCI’s stance of not sending its team to Pakistan due to security reasons, Sethi said even PCB have its reservations over security in India, and that if the Pakistan board lose the Asia Cup’s hosting rights, they would ensure Pakistan is also boycotting the 50-over World Cup in India. "That's a very real possibility, of course," Sethi said on Pakistan not participating in the 2023 World Cup in India. "We also have security concerns for our team in India," he said. "So let Pakistan play its matches in Dhaka or Mirpur, or UAE or in Sri Lanka. This is the solution going forward, until such time that India agrees to play Pakistan, in Pakistan and outside Pakistan, bilaterally," Sethi added. (With inputs from Reuters)

Pakistan boycotting the 2023 World Cup is a 'real possibility,' warns PCB chief Najam Sethi

Pakistan captain Babar Azam is unfazed by the hype around India vs Pakistan clash at the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup in India later this year. With Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad slated to host the high-octane clash on October 15, Babar feels the mega-event is not about just one game, as the focus for the team would remain to do well against all teams and stay on top of the points table in the end.

Speaking to the media in Karachi, where most of Pakistan players are attending a camp before flying to Sri Lanka for the two-match Test series, Babar said all the hype around the most-talked-about match at the World Cup wouldn't distract his team from achieving the bigger goal - which is to win the tournament for the first time since 1992.

"We are going to play World Cup and not just going to play against India only," Babar said. "There are eight other teams, and it's not only India, and only if we beat them then we will make it into the final. We are not focused on only one team, we are focused on all other teams in the tournament. Our plan is that we have to play well against all of them and win against them."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/raina-jadeja-hardik-pandya-send-birthday-greetings-to-ms-dhoni-as-thala-turns-42-612940">Raina, Jadeja, Hardik Pandya send birthday greetings to MS Dhoni as Thala turns 42</a>

The final schedule is already out, with Pakistan starting their campaign against two qualifying teams - the Netherlands on October 6 and Sri Lanka on October 12, both in Hyderabad. Following that, the big clash against host India will get underway in Ahmedabad.&nbsp;

Pakistan's remaining six matches will take place in cities like Bengaluru (vs Australia on October 20 and New Zealand on November 4), Chennai (vs Afghanistan on October 23 and against South Africa on October 27) and at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata (against Bangladesh on October 31 and England on November 12).

<h2>'I aspire to win in every country'</h2>

Babar said: "In our thought, wherever the cricket will be played, wherever the matches are, we are going to play there. Because as professionals that is what we do, you have to be ready for everything. You prepare yourself for different conditions and in every environment and that is what we call a challenge, and you take it to live up to it.&nbsp;

"Me, as a player and captain, I aspire to score runs in every country, dominate and win Pakistan games. So this is all we have in mind and not only that we're going to play against one team."

Pakistan's latest assignment is against Sri Lanka as both teams will face off in the two-match Test series starting July 16 in Galle.

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Pakistan captain Babar Azam is unfazed by the hype around India vs Pakistan clash at the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup in India later this year. With Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad slated to host the high-octane clash on October 15, Babar feels the mega-event is not about just one game, as the focus for the team would remain to do well against all teams and stay on top of the points table in the end.

Pakistan captain Babar Azam is unfazed by the hype around India vs Pakistan clash at the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup in India later this year. With Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad slated to host the high-octane clash on October 15, Babar feels the mega-event is not about just one game, as the focus for the team would remain to do well against all teams and stay on top of the points table in the end. Speaking to the media in Karachi, where most of Pakistan players are attending a camp before flying to Sri Lanka for the two-match Test series, Babar said all the hype around the most-talked-about match at the World Cup wouldn't distract his team from achieving the bigger goal - which is to win the tournament for the first time since 1992. "We are going to play World Cup and not just going to play against India only," Babar said. "There are eight other teams, and it's not only India, and only if we beat them then we will make it into the final. We are not focused on only one team, we are focused on all other teams in the tournament. Our plan is that we have to play well against all of them and win against them." ALSO READ: Raina, Jadeja, Hardik Pandya send birthday greetings to MS Dhoni as Thala turns 42 The final schedule is already out, with Pakistan starting their campaign against two qualifying teams - the Netherlands on October 6 and Sri Lanka on October 12, both in Hyderabad. Following that, the big clash against host India will get underway in Ahmedabad. Pakistan's remaining six matches will take place in cities like Bengaluru (vs Australia on October 20 and New Zealand on November 4), Chennai (vs Afghanistan on October 23 and against South Africa on October 27) and at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata (against Bangladesh on October 31 and England on November 12). 'I aspire to win in every country' Babar said: "In our thought, wherever the cricket will be played, wherever the matches are, we are going to play there. Because as professionals that is what we do, you have to be ready for everything. You prepare yourself for different conditions and in every environment and that is what we call a challenge, and you take it to live up to it. "Me, as a player and captain, I aspire to score runs in every country, dominate and win Pakistan games. So this is all we have in mind and not only that we're going to play against one team." Pakistan's latest assignment is against Sri Lanka as both teams will face off in the two-match Test series starting July 16 in Galle. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Unfazed Babar Azam plays down India-Pakistan World Cup game hype, says focus should be on all matches

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) secretary Jay Shah confirmed the 2023 World Cup schedule will undergo a few changes, with the revised schedule to be finalised in consultation with the ICC in a few days. This decision comes after reports suggested the marquee clash between India and Pakistan will be rescheduled on October 14 instead of October 15 due to security reasons.

Following a BCCI meeting in the capital on Sunday, Shah revealed several other countries, without mentioning their names, wrote to BCCI pointing out logistical challenges their teams would face, thus requesting changes. Though the BCCI secretary said the Indian board remains in discussion with cricket’s apex body over possible rescheduling of a couple of dates, he kept mum on the date change of the India vs Pakistan game.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-t20-cricket-is-future-odis-will-be-confined-only-to-world-cups-in-ten-years-eoin-morgan-620012">EXCLUSIVE: T20 cricket is future, ODIs will be confined only to World Cups in ten years – Eoin Morgan</a>

"There is a possibility there could be a few changes in the schedule. Several Full Member countries have written in requesting to change two or three dates in the schedule. We are working it out with the ICC, and we should be able to clear it in two or three days,” Jay Shah said.

As reported earlier, because of Navratri – a nine-day Hindu festival starting on October 15, the local police have requested to reschedule the marquee clash to a another date – something Shah dismissed as a reason straight away.

"If security was an issue then why would the match go there (to Ahmedabad)? [October] 14-15 is not the problem. Two or three boards have written in, asking to change based on the logistical challenges. There are some matches where there is only a two-day gap, so it will be difficult to play and then travel the next day [and then play again]," Shah added.

<h2>Venues to remain&nbsp;same, dates to be adjusted</h2>

The BCCI, anyway, took longer than expected to announce the 2023 World Cup schedule, and with several requests now coming in from a few boards, more changes to it will happen, and per Shah, the venues will remain the same while dates will be adjusted.

"As far as possible, we are looking at not changing the venue as well as the matches. Not changing the venue is very important. Teams which have six-day gaps between matches, we are trying to reduce it to four-five days; and those that have just two-day gaps, we are trying to increase to three days," Shah added.

Meanwhile, the 2023 World Cup will begin on October 5 till November 19, with host nation India to face Australia in their campaign opener on October 8 in Chennai.

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The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) secretary Jay Shah confirmed the 2023 World Cup schedule will undergo a few changes, with the revised schedule to be finalised in consultation with the ICC in a few days.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) secretary Jay Shah confirmed the 2023 World Cup schedule will undergo a few changes, with the revised schedule to be finalised in consultation with the ICC in a few days. This decision comes after reports suggested the marquee clash between India and Pakistan will be rescheduled on October 14 instead of October 15 due to security reasons. Following a BCCI meeting in the capital on Sunday, Shah revealed several other countries, without mentioning their names, wrote to BCCI pointing out logistical challenges their teams would face, thus requesting changes. Though the BCCI secretary said the Indian board remains in discussion with cricket’s apex body over possible rescheduling of a couple of dates, he kept mum on the date change of the India vs Pakistan game. ALSO READ: EXCLUSIVE: T20 cricket is future, ODIs will be confined only to World Cups in ten years – Eoin Morgan "There is a possibility there could be a few changes in the schedule. Several Full Member countries have written in requesting to change two or three dates in the schedule. We are working it out with the ICC, and we should be able to clear it in two or three days,” Jay Shah said. As reported earlier, because of Navratri – a nine-day Hindu festival starting on October 15, the local police have requested to reschedule the marquee clash to a another date – something Shah dismissed as a reason straight away. "If security was an issue then why would the match go there (to Ahmedabad)? [October] 14-15 is not the problem. Two or three boards have written in, asking to change based on the logistical challenges. There are some matches where there is only a two-day gap, so it will be difficult to play and then travel the next day [and then play again]," Shah added. Venues to remain same, dates to be adjusted The BCCI, anyway, took longer than expected to announce the 2023 World Cup schedule, and with several requests now coming in from a few boards, more changes to it will happen, and per Shah, the venues will remain the same while dates will be adjusted. "As far as possible, we are looking at not changing the venue as well as the matches. Not changing the venue is very important. Teams which have six-day gaps between matches, we are trying to reduce it to four-five days; and those that have just two-day gaps, we are trying to increase to three days," Shah added. Meanwhile, the 2023 World Cup will begin on October 5 till November 19, with host nation India to face Australia in their campaign opener on October 8 in Chennai. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

BCCI secretary Jay Shah confirms 2023 World Cup schedule will undergo changes

Pakistan’s foreign ministry has given a green signal to the Cricket Team to travel to India for the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 in October-November this year. Following a high-profile meeting earlier, including government officials, the foreign ministry issued a press release stating as they maintain their stance of not mixing politics with sports, they decide to send its cricket team to India for the mega event.

The press release, however, also mentioned that PCB remains concerned about the team’s security in the country, given the strained political relations between both nations.&nbsp;

“Pakistan has consistently maintained that sports should not be mixed with politics. It has, therefore, decided to send its Cricket Team to India to participate in the upcoming ICC Cricket World Cup 2023,” a press release issued by the foreign ministry in Islamabad, stated.

This situation is a winner for cricket as fans from both countries will now watch the marquee clash at cricket’s greatest spectacle – the ICC Men’s ODI World Cup.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/there-were-things-i-got-wrong-but-i-am-proud-of-my-career-alex-hales-on-playing-for-england-622869">There were things I got wrong but I am proud of my career: Alex Hales on playing for England</a>

The press release further stated that political relations between both countries must not come in between the sports-related international commitments.&nbsp;

It also mentions despite the Indian Government’s call to not send its team to Pakistan for the Asia Cup 2023, Pakistan will be sending its team to India, showing its constructive and responsible approach.

“Pakistan believes that the state of bilateral relations with India should not stand in the way of fulfilling its international sports-related obligations.&nbsp; 
 
Pakistan’s decision shows its constructive and responsible approach vis-à-vis India’s intransigent attitude, as the latter had refused to send its Cricket Team to Pakistan for the Asia Cup,” the PR stated.

<h2>‘Security still a concern for Pakistan’&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

Having said that Pakistan's foreign ministry added the security remains a concern for them and that they have raised the issue with the apex body – the ICC, and the Indian authorities, asking for full-proof security for the touring Pakistan Men’s Cricket Team.

“Pakistan, however, has deep concerns about the security of its Cricket Team. We are conveying these concerns to the International Cricket Council and the Indian authorities. We expect that full safety and security of Pakistan Cricket Team will be ensured during its visit to India,” it said.

With Pakistan all set to travel to India for the World Cup 2023, all eyes will now be on the revised schedule that is yet to get announced by the BCCI.&nbsp;

Per the earlier schedule, Pakistan was supposed to play India on Sunday, October 15, at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, and now, the game will get staged a day prior, i.e., on October 14, at the same venue.&nbsp;

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Pakistan’s foreign ministry has given a green signal to the Cricket Team to travel to India for the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 in October-November this year.

Pakistan’s foreign ministry has given a green signal to the Cricket Team to travel to India for the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 in October-November this year. Following a high-profile meeting earlier, including government officials, the foreign ministry issued a press release stating as they maintain their stance of not mixing politics with sports, they decide to send its cricket team to India for the mega event. The press release, however, also mentioned that PCB remains concerned about the team’s security in the country, given the strained political relations between both nations. “Pakistan has consistently maintained that sports should not be mixed with politics. It has, therefore, decided to send its Cricket Team to India to participate in the upcoming ICC Cricket World Cup 2023,” a press release issued by the foreign ministry in Islamabad, stated. This situation is a winner for cricket as fans from both countries will now watch the marquee clash at cricket’s greatest spectacle – the ICC Men’s ODI World Cup. ALSO READ: There were things I got wrong but I am proud of my career: Alex Hales on playing for England The press release further stated that political relations between both countries must not come in between the sports-related international commitments. It also mentions despite the Indian Government’s call to not send its team to Pakistan for the Asia Cup 2023, Pakistan will be sending its team to India, showing its constructive and responsible approach. “Pakistan believes that the state of bilateral relations with India should not stand in the way of fulfilling its international sports-related obligations. Pakistan’s decision shows its constructive and responsible approach vis-à-vis India’s intransigent attitude, as the latter had refused to send its Cricket Team to Pakistan for the Asia Cup,” the PR stated. ‘Security still a concern for Pakistan’ Having said that Pakistan's foreign ministry added the security remains a concern for them and that they have raised the issue with the apex body – the ICC, and the Indian authorities, asking for full-proof security for the touring Pakistan Men’s Cricket Team. “Pakistan, however, has deep concerns about the security of its Cricket Team. We are conveying these concerns to the International Cricket Council and the Indian authorities. We expect that full safety and security of Pakistan Cricket Team will be ensured during its visit to India,” it said. With Pakistan all set to travel to India for the World Cup 2023, all eyes will now be on the revised schedule that is yet to get announced by the BCCI. Per the earlier schedule, Pakistan was supposed to play India on Sunday, October 15, at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, and now, the game will get staged a day prior, i.e., on October 14, at the same venue. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Sports should not be mixed with politics, our team will travel to India for World Cup: Pak foreign ministry

Asia Cup 2023: Asia Cup 2023, the only continental cricketing tournament in the world, will start with Pakistan locking horns with Sri Lanka on August 30, and the final match will happen on September 17.

Asia Cup 2023: Asia Cup 2023, the only continental cricketing tournament in the world, will start with Pakistan locking horns with Sri Lanka on August 30, and the final match will happen on September 17. The event will be a dress rehearsal for Asia's most prominent cricketing nations ahead of the ICC ODI World Cup 2023. The Asia Cup is one of the grandest tournaments in international cricket. India won the inaugural edition of the Asia Cup in the United Arab Emirates, in 1984, under the leadership of Sunil Gavaskar. Since then, the Asia Cup has had 15 editions. Dubai hosted the most recent Asia Cup in 202, which followed the T20I format. However, Asia Cup 2023 will follow the ODI format. Furthermore, Sri Lanka defeated Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2022 final. However, India is the most successful team in Asia Cup's history, as the Men in Blue have won the title seven times. Sri Lanka comes second in the list with six titles. Here's everything you need to know about Asia Cup 2023. Asia Cup 2023 Schedule August 30: Pakistan vs Nepal, Multan, 3:30 PM IST August 31: Bangladesh vs Sri Lanka, Pallekele, 1:00 PM IST September 2: Pakistan vs India, Pallekele, 1:00 PM IST September 3: Bangladesh vs Afghanistan, Lahore, 1:30 PM IST September 4: India vs Nepal, Pallekele, 1:00 PM IST September 5: Afghanistan vs Sri Lanka, Lahore, 3:30 PM IST September 6: A1 vs B2, Lahore, 3:30 PM IST September 9: B1 vs B2, Colombo, 2:00 PM IST September 10: A1 vs A2, Colombo, 2:00 PM IST September 12: A2 vs B1, Colombo, 2:00 PM IST September 14: A1 vs B1, Colombo, 2:00 PM IST September 15: A2 vs B2, Colombo, 2:00 PM IST September 17: TBC vs TBC, Colombo, 2:00 PM IST\ Asia Cup 2023: How many times will India and Pakistan meet in the tournament? India and Pakistan are in Group A. The first match between India and Pakistan will occur on September 2 in Pallekel, Sri Lanka. If there are no upsets in the group stage, the two teams will meet in the Super Four Stage. Furthermore, if both nations finish in the top two of the Super Fours, they will square off again in the final match. Thus, India and Pakistan can meet three times in Asia Cup 2023. (With inputs from agencies WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Asia Cup 2023: 10 days to go, Check date, time, venue, format, India vs Pakistan match & all you need to know

Virat Kohli is currently gearing up for India's Asia Cup campaign, where they begin their run versus arch-rivals Pakistan on September 02 in Pallekele, Sri Lanka. The last time both sides met each other was during last year's T20 World Cup, held in Australia. Facing each other at the MCG, Melbourne, both sides produced a humdinger of a clash where Kohli made heads turn with his 53-ball 82 not out in India's four-wicket win in pursuit of 160. Rawalpindi Express Shoaib Akhtar recalled the right-hander's masterclass and feels the match was 'all about Kohli'.

<h2>'Cricket gods wanted to do it for Virat Kohli'</h2>

During an interaction with RevSportz, on a day when Kohli is celebrating 15 years of his international debut, Akhtar said, "That match was all about Virat Kohli. The cricket Gods wanted to do it for him. He wasn’t in the best of form and was facing a lot of heat from you guys in India. The media was after him. It was God’s way of telling him – this is your stage, come and become king again. If you see all that transpired – rain and a lot of it, 100,000 people, 1.3 billion Indians watching, 30 crore Pakistanis watching, the whole world in awe – the stage was set for Kohli. It was the greatest stage of all. When you add the two sixes he hit off Haris Rauf, that match gave him back his kingdom. I think it was all destined for him on that day at the MCG."

<h2>No white-ball cricket for Kohli post CWC '23?</h2>

On Kohli's future, Akhtar made a big claim and opined, "I don’t think he should play more 50-overs matches after this World Cup. Also, if you see him in T20s, it takes a lot out of him. I think he should play for at least six more years and break the 100 hundreds record of Sachin Tendulkar. Kohli has it in him to break the record. He should focus on Test cricket after this World Cup, and break this record."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/moment-ms-dhoni-gave-up-captaincy-things-went-south-akhtar-on-indias-icc-title-drought-since-2013-626699">Moment MS Dhoni gave up captaincy, things went south: Akhtar on India's ICC title drought since 2013</a>

He added, "Also, there was a lot of chat about him losing captaincy. I don’t read much into it. I actually think it has freed him up. Why did he start playing? He started his cricket to be like Sachin Tendulkar. He has become like Sachin. Scored loads of runs. Now, he should just continue to score runs for his team and win India more and more games. Losing captaincy is actually good for him as a batter, because the pressure of captaincy cripples you."

Recalling India-Pakistan's clash in the 2022 T20 WC, Rohit-led India opted to bowl and rode on Hardik Pandya and Arshdeep Singh's three-fers to restrict Babar Azam &amp; Co. for 159 for 8. In reply, India was tottering at 31 for 4 before Kohli-Hardik's 113-run fifth-wicket stand revived the run-chase. The former Indian skipper remained unbeaten on 82, laced with 6 fours and 4 sixes, to take his side past the finish line in what was a last-ball finish.&nbsp;

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Virat Kohli is currently gearing up for India's Asia Cup campaign, where they begin their run versus arch-rivals Pakistan on September 02 in Pallekele, Sri Lanka.

Virat Kohli is currently gearing up for India's Asia Cup campaign, where they begin their run versus arch-rivals Pakistan on September 02 in Pallekele, Sri Lanka. The last time both sides met each other was during last year's T20 World Cup, held in Australia. Facing each other at the MCG, Melbourne, both sides produced a humdinger of a clash where Kohli made heads turn with his 53-ball 82 not out in India's four-wicket win in pursuit of 160. Rawalpindi Express Shoaib Akhtar recalled the right-hander's masterclass and feels the match was 'all about Kohli'. 'Cricket gods wanted to do it for Virat Kohli' During an interaction with RevSportz, on a day when Kohli is celebrating 15 years of his international debut, Akhtar said, "That match was all about Virat Kohli. The cricket Gods wanted to do it for him. He wasn’t in the best of form and was facing a lot of heat from you guys in India. The media was after him. It was God’s way of telling him – this is your stage, come and become king again. If you see all that transpired – rain and a lot of it, 100,000 people, 1.3 billion Indians watching, 30 crore Pakistanis watching, the whole world in awe – the stage was set for Kohli. It was the greatest stage of all. When you add the two sixes he hit off Haris Rauf, that match gave him back his kingdom. I think it was all destined for him on that day at the MCG." No white-ball cricket for Kohli post CWC '23? On Kohli's future, Akhtar made a big claim and opined, "I don’t think he should play more 50-overs matches after this World Cup. Also, if you see him in T20s, it takes a lot out of him. I think he should play for at least six more years and break the 100 hundreds record of Sachin Tendulkar. Kohli has it in him to break the record. He should focus on Test cricket after this World Cup, and break this record." Also read: Moment MS Dhoni gave up captaincy, things went south: Akhtar on India's ICC title drought since 2013 He added, "Also, there was a lot of chat about him losing captaincy. I don’t read much into it. I actually think it has freed him up. Why did he start playing? He started his cricket to be like Sachin Tendulkar. He has become like Sachin. Scored loads of runs. Now, he should just continue to score runs for his team and win India more and more games. Losing captaincy is actually good for him as a batter, because the pressure of captaincy cripples you." Recalling India-Pakistan's clash in the 2022 T20 WC, Rohit-led India opted to bowl and rode on Hardik Pandya and Arshdeep Singh's three-fers to restrict Babar Azam & Co. for 159 for 8. In reply, India was tottering at 31 for 4 before Kohli-Hardik's 113-run fifth-wicket stand revived the run-chase. The former Indian skipper remained unbeaten on 82, laced with 6 fours and 4 sixes, to take his side past the finish line in what was a last-ball finish. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'It was God’s way of telling....': Akhtar recalls Virat Kohli's masterclass vs Pakistan in T20 World Cup

The rivalry between India and Pakistan has always been the talking point in cricket. Regarded by many as perhaps the greatest in this game’s history, even mightier than the ever-important Ashes, a new chapter in this rivalry is set to be written come October 14. Though both teams are facing each other in the Asia Cup before, the craze for the World Cup clash is something else.

Former Pakistan speedster and bowling legend Shoaib Akhtar shared his first-hand experience of performing in front of Indian crowd. Having achieved enormous success against India – with twin wickets of Sachin Tendulkar and Rahul Dravid on successive deliveries in Kolkata Test, 1999 being the top highlight, Akhtar talked highly of the Indian crowd.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/steve-smith-mitchell-starc-to-miss-south-africa-series-due-to-injuries-aussies-rope-in-labuschagne-as-cover-626676">Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc to miss South Africa series due to injuries, Aussies rope in Labuschagne as cover</a>

Speaking with journalist Boria Majumdar, Akhtar, in an exclusive chat, said the Indian crowd has been appreciative and that when the time will come they will also cheer for the new pace-bowling duo of Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah during the World Cup 2023. Adding the crowd is sure to even clap for their efforts, Shoaib said,

“Indian people and Indian crowds are always appreciative. I absolutely agree with you. And that’s why I say to Shaheen Shah or Naseem Shah or the battery of Pakistan fast bowlers that they should go to India and enjoy playing in front of packed Indian crowds. The crowd will clap for them, and even if they don’t, they will surely appreciate the effort,” the Rawalpindi Express said.

<h2>‘Pressure on India,&nbsp;we have nothing to lose’</h2>

Speaking on the high-octane clash, a platform where so far India has reigned supreme over Pakistan across all meetings, Shoaib said with Indian media putting so much pressure on them ahead of the start, Pakistan is likely to enter the contest as underdogs with no pressure at all on their back.

“What will go in our favour is that the Indian media will put enormous pressure on the Indian team. For them, the Indian team can’t lose, and if they lose, God help them. This builds humongous pressure on India, and it means we are designated underdogs. Frankly, all the pressure is on India, and we have nothing to lose."&nbsp;

"All our boys need to do is play their hearts out, and beat India in India. Without much pressure and with all the pressure on India, they can surely do so. Go to India, and beat India. That’s what we should do rather than saying we won’t travel et cetera,” he said.

Meanwhile, India and Pakistan will face off on September 2 in Asia Cup.&nbsp;

Their World Cup match is scheduled on October 14 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. 
 
&nbsp;

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The rivalry between India and Pakistan has always been the talking point in cricket. Regarded by many as perhaps the greatest in this game’s history, even mightier than the ever-important Ashes, a new chapter in this rivalry is set to be written come October 14.

The rivalry between India and Pakistan has always been the talking point in cricket. Regarded by many as perhaps the greatest in this game’s history, even mightier than the ever-important Ashes, a new chapter in this rivalry is set to be written come October 14. Though both teams are facing each other in the Asia Cup before, the craze for the World Cup clash is something else. Former Pakistan speedster and bowling legend Shoaib Akhtar shared his first-hand experience of performing in front of Indian crowd. Having achieved enormous success against India – with twin wickets of Sachin Tendulkar and Rahul Dravid on successive deliveries in Kolkata Test, 1999 being the top highlight, Akhtar talked highly of the Indian crowd. ALSO READ: Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc to miss South Africa series due to injuries, Aussies rope in Labuschagne as cover Speaking with journalist Boria Majumdar, Akhtar, in an exclusive chat, said the Indian crowd has been appreciative and that when the time will come they will also cheer for the new pace-bowling duo of Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah during the World Cup 2023. Adding the crowd is sure to even clap for their efforts, Shoaib said, “Indian people and Indian crowds are always appreciative. I absolutely agree with you. And that’s why I say to Shaheen Shah or Naseem Shah or the battery of Pakistan fast bowlers that they should go to India and enjoy playing in front of packed Indian crowds. The crowd will clap for them, and even if they don’t, they will surely appreciate the effort,” the Rawalpindi Express said. ‘Pressure on India, we have nothing to lose’ Speaking on the high-octane clash, a platform where so far India has reigned supreme over Pakistan across all meetings, Shoaib said with Indian media putting so much pressure on them ahead of the start, Pakistan is likely to enter the contest as underdogs with no pressure at all on their back. “What will go in our favour is that the Indian media will put enormous pressure on the Indian team. For them, the Indian team can’t lose, and if they lose, God help them. This builds humongous pressure on India, and it means we are designated underdogs. Frankly, all the pressure is on India, and we have nothing to lose." "All our boys need to do is play their hearts out, and beat India in India. Without much pressure and with all the pressure on India, they can surely do so. Go to India, and beat India. That’s what we should do rather than saying we won’t travel et cetera,” he said. Meanwhile, India and Pakistan will face off on September 2 in Asia Cup. Their World Cup match is scheduled on October 14 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. WATCH WION LIVE HERE: :

Indian crowd has always been appreciative, will clap for Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah: Shoaib Akhtar

Rawalpindi Express Shoaib Akhtar shared his take on India's 10-year-long ICC title drought since 2013. It is to be noted that Team India last won a mega event during the 2013 Champions Trophy, when MS Dhoni-led, inexperienced Indian&nbsp;line-up beat England in a rain-marred final, by five runs (DLS method), to lift the coveted title in England and Wales.

Since then, India have reached the final of mega events on four occasions (in T20 World Cup 2014, the 2017 Champions Trophy, the two WTC finals) and semi-finals on as many instances (during the 2015 and 2019 ODI World Cup, 2016 and 2022 T20 World Cup). However, they could not add to their trophy cabinet.

Akhar, in an interview with RevSportz, opined on India's empty trophy cabinet since 2013 and feels things have gone south for India ever since Dhoni stepped down as the captain. Under the legendary skipper, India won the 2007 T20 World Cup, 2011 ODI World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy. In addition, he led India to the No. 1 spot in the ICC Test Rankings.&nbsp;

<h2>'The moment Dhoni gave up captaincy, things went south for India'</h2>

Akhtar said, "First of all, it is the pressure that you all put on the team. It is almost impossible to play with such pressure. Like I told you, it is as if you can’t lose. If you, God forbid, lose, all hell will break loose."

He further opined, "The second and more important point is you had someone who could soak in all the pressure, and protect his teammates. He would not let his teammates feel the pressure, and that was the best thing about MS Dhoni. You won the 2007 World T20 under him, the 2011 World Cup and then the 2013 Champions Trophy. The moment Dhoni gave up the captaincy, things went south for India."

On the current Indian captain Rohit Sharma, who has already led India in two ICC events&nbsp;but not managed any success, the former Pakistani pacer stated, "When I see Rohit, I keep asking this question of myself if he should have accepted captaincy in the first place? I think Rohit feels panic on occasion and lets the pressure get to him. The pressure of captaincy cripples you, and it happened with Virat Kohli also. That’s why you don’t win a major tournament."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-sanju-samson-and-shreyas-iyer-harbhajan-singh-names-his-india-squad-for-asia-cup-2023-626652">No Sanju Samson and Shreyas Iyer! Harbhajan Singh names his India squad for Asia Cup 2023</a>

Akhtar added, "Make no mistake, Rohit does have the team to win the World Cup. As a batter, he is perhaps more talented than Virat Kohli also. He is a classical batsman and the kind of shots he plays, it is just mind-blowing. But with captaincy, is he being able to do that? Let him prove me wrong and all of us wrong, for that’s what all of India will want him to do in this World Cup."

Under Dhoni, India became temperamentally strong during crunch situations, concentrated more on fielding and running between wickets,&nbsp;and saw a smooth transition with the baton being passed to Virat Kohli, who was later replaced by Rohit as full-time captain early in 2022. Now, Rohit will look to end India's title drought with a win in the upcoming home ODI World Cup, set to begin on October 05 in Ahmedabad.

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Rawalpindi Express Shoaib Akhtar shared his take on India's 10-year-long ICC title drought since 2013. It is to be noted that Team India last won a mega event during the 2013 Champions Trophy, when MS Dhoni-led, inexperienced Indian line-up beat England in a rain-marred final, by five runs (DLS method), to lift the coveted title in England and Wales.

Rawalpindi Express Shoaib Akhtar shared his take on India's 10-year-long ICC title drought since 2013. It is to be noted that Team India last won a mega event during the 2013 Champions Trophy, when MS Dhoni-led, inexperienced Indian line-up beat England in a rain-marred final, by five runs (DLS method), to lift the coveted title in England and Wales. Since then, India have reached the final of mega events on four occasions (in T20 World Cup 2014, the 2017 Champions Trophy, the two WTC finals) and semi-finals on as many instances (during the 2015 and 2019 ODI World Cup, 2016 and 2022 T20 World Cup). However, they could not add to their trophy cabinet. Akhar, in an interview with RevSportz, opined on India's empty trophy cabinet since 2013 and feels things have gone south for India ever since Dhoni stepped down as the captain. Under the legendary skipper, India won the 2007 T20 World Cup, 2011 ODI World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy. In addition, he led India to the No. 1 spot in the ICC Test Rankings. 'The moment Dhoni gave up captaincy, things went south for India' Akhtar said, "First of all, it is the pressure that you all put on the team. It is almost impossible to play with such pressure. Like I told you, it is as if you can’t lose. If you, God forbid, lose, all hell will break loose." He further opined, "The second and more important point is you had someone who could soak in all the pressure, and protect his teammates. He would not let his teammates feel the pressure, and that was the best thing about MS Dhoni. You won the 2007 World T20 under him, the 2011 World Cup and then the 2013 Champions Trophy. The moment Dhoni gave up the captaincy, things went south for India." On the current Indian captain Rohit Sharma, who has already led India in two ICC events but not managed any success, the former Pakistani pacer stated, "When I see Rohit, I keep asking this question of myself if he should have accepted captaincy in the first place? I think Rohit feels panic on occasion and lets the pressure get to him. The pressure of captaincy cripples you, and it happened with Virat Kohli also. That’s why you don’t win a major tournament." Also read: No Sanju Samson and Shreyas Iyer! Harbhajan Singh names his India squad for Asia Cup 2023 Akhtar added, "Make no mistake, Rohit does have the team to win the World Cup. As a batter, he is perhaps more talented than Virat Kohli also. He is a classical batsman and the kind of shots he plays, it is just mind-blowing. But with captaincy, is he being able to do that? Let him prove me wrong and all of us wrong, for that’s what all of India will want him to do in this World Cup." Under Dhoni, India became temperamentally strong during crunch situations, concentrated more on fielding and running between wickets, and saw a smooth transition with the baton being passed to Virat Kohli, who was later replaced by Rohit as full-time captain early in 2022. Now, Rohit will look to end India's title drought with a win in the upcoming home ODI World Cup, set to begin on October 05 in Ahmedabad. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Moment MS Dhoni gave up captaincy, things went south: Akhtar on India's ICC title drought since 2013

IN PICS | India vs Pakistan last six Asia Cup meetings featuring Shikhar Dhawan-Rohit Sharma's record stand

Pakistan's swashbuckling batter Iftikhar Ahmed has been in the news for a while. A statement went viral recently, where the 32-year-old allegedly compared competing against India to playing with "street children". The remark went viral in no time on social media platforms and the Pakistan batter faced a lot of heat online. However, he has now responded to the statement and termed it fake. Iftikhar said that 'no professional cricketer will make such a statement' and slammed the fan who is at fault for "spreading hate".

<h2>'Please stop circulating false news, report this individual for spreading hate'</h2>

"I've been made aware of this statement which I've never made. In fact, no professional cricketer will make such a statement. Please stop circulating false news &amp; report this individual for spreading hate. @X @elonmusk please ban this account as people are misusing the blue tick," Iftikhar posted on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pcb-releases-new-promotional-video-including-imran-khan-after-social-media-backlash-626265">PCB releases new promotional video featuring Imran Khan after social media backlash</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
I’ve been made aware of this statement which I’ve never made. In fact, no professional cricketer will make such a statement. Please stop circulating false news &amp; report this individual for spreading hate.<a href="https://twitter.com/X?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@X</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@elonmusk</a> please ban this account as people are misusing the blue tick. <a href="https://t.co/dmgDEfM9jp">https://t.co/dmgDEfM9jp</a> <a href="https://t.co/fExqNRa9Zk">pic.twitter.com/fExqNRa9Zk</a>
— Iftikhar Ahmad (@IftiMania) <a href="https://twitter.com/IftiMania/status/1691844717451886704?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2023</a></blockquote>
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At present, Iftikhar is gearing up for the forthcoming Asia Cup -- to be jointly hosted by Sri Lanka and Pakistan.

The continental tournament will kick off on August 30 with Pakistan hosting Nepal, whereas the Babar Azam-led Men in Green face arch-rivals Rohit Sharma-led India on September 02 in Pallekele. The two sides are expected to lock horns in the Super Four and can also meet in the summit clash, to be held on September 17 in Colombo.&nbsp;

Iftikhar, who is a popular name in his country due to his big-hitting skills, is part of a strong 17-man squad for the upcoming multi-nation event. He was recently seen in action in the ongoing Lanka Premier League (LPL) 2023 edition, where he represented the Colombo Strikers who failed to make it to the playoffs.

Pakistan squad for Asia Cup:&nbsp;Babar Azam (c), Abdullah Shafique, Fakhar Zaman, Imam-ul-Haq, Salman Ali Agha, Iftikhar Ahmed, Tayyab Tahir, Mohammad Rizwan, Mohammad Haris, Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Usama Mir, Faheem Ashraf, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Afridi.

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Pakistan's swashbuckling batter Iftikhar Ahmed has been in the news for a while. A statement went viral recently, where the 32-year-old allegedly compared competing against India to playing with "street children".

Pakistan's swashbuckling batter Iftikhar Ahmed has been in the news for a while. A statement went viral recently, where the 32-year-old allegedly compared competing against India to playing with "street children". The remark went viral in no time on social media platforms and the Pakistan batter faced a lot of heat online. However, he has now responded to the statement and termed it fake. Iftikhar said that 'no professional cricketer will make such a statement' and slammed the fan who is at fault for "spreading hate". 'Please stop circulating false news, report this individual for spreading hate' "I've been made aware of this statement which I've never made. In fact, no professional cricketer will make such a statement. Please stop circulating false news & report this individual for spreading hate. @X @elonmusk please ban this account as people are misusing the blue tick," Iftikhar posted on X, formerly known as Twitter. Also read: PCB releases new promotional video featuring Imran Khan after social media backlash I’ve been made aware of this statement which I’ve never made. In fact, no professional cricketer will make such a statement. Please stop circulating false news & report this individual for spreading hate.@X @elonmusk please ban this account as people are misusing the blue tick. https://t.co/dmgDEfM9jp pic.twitter.com/fExqNRa9Zk — Iftikhar Ahmad (@IftiMania) August 16, 2023 × At present, Iftikhar is gearing up for the forthcoming Asia Cup -- to be jointly hosted by Sri Lanka and Pakistan. The continental tournament will kick off on August 30 with Pakistan hosting Nepal, whereas the Babar Azam-led Men in Green face arch-rivals Rohit Sharma-led India on September 02 in Pallekele. The two sides are expected to lock horns in the Super Four and can also meet in the summit clash, to be held on September 17 in Colombo. Iftikhar, who is a popular name in his country due to his big-hitting skills, is part of a strong 17-man squad for the upcoming multi-nation event. He was recently seen in action in the ongoing Lanka Premier League (LPL) 2023 edition, where he represented the Colombo Strikers who failed to make it to the playoffs. Pakistan squad for Asia Cup: Babar Azam (c), Abdullah Shafique, Fakhar Zaman, Imam-ul-Haq, Salman Ali Agha, Iftikhar Ahmed, Tayyab Tahir, Mohammad Rizwan, Mohammad Haris, Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Usama Mir, Faheem Ashraf, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Afridi. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Pakistan's Iftikhar Ahmed reacts to fake remark on Team India, lashes out at fan for 'spreading hate'

India and Pakistan are set to lock horns in the forthcoming Asia Cup 2023 edition, which will be held in Pakistan and Sri Lanka. The upcoming continental tournament kicks off on August 30 and arch-rivals India and Pakistan will lock horns on September 02 in Pallekele. The two sides are likely to meet in the Super Four round and can also lock horns in the summit clash, to be held in Colombo on September 17.

Ahead of the tournament, former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria feels Babar Azam &amp; Co. have the edge over Team India as the latter are unsettled at the moment.

<h2>'Pakistan have the edge, as India don't look settled at the moment'</h2>

Kaneria said during a live session on his official YouTube channel, "Pakistan have the edge, as India don't look settled at the moment. They don't know which fast bowlers are going to play. In their spin department, Yuzvendra Chahal has been inconsistent. Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, and Ravindra Jadeja should be the three spinners, according to me. If they want a spinner on standby, Ravi Bishnoi should get the nod."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashwin-reacts-after-dravid-left-concerned-with-indias-batting-depth-shares-suggestion-for-cwc-23-625620">Ashwin reacts after Dravid shows concern for India's batting depth, shares suggestion for CWC '23</a>

The former Pakistan spinner further added, "KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer have been practicing at the NCA and are mostly likely going to be included in India's squad for the upcoming major tournaments. However, you cannot bring someone into the team just on the basis of practice. They will have to play matches and should be added to the team only if they show good form there."

Team India recently ended their all-format tour of West Indies, on August 13, where they won the Test series 1-0 and the three ODIs 2-1 but lost the five T20Is 2-3. A second-stringed Indian team will now tour Ireland, for three T20Is, where Jasprit Bumrah marks his international return since September 2022. The national side will also hope for Iyer and Rahul's comeback ahead of the Asia Cup as their backups, Sanju Samson and Suryakumar Yadav, continue to remain inconsistent.

Pakistan squad for Asia Cup:&nbsp;Babar Azam (c), Abdullah Shafique, Fakhar Zaman, Imam-ul-Haq, Salman Ali Agha, Iftikhar Ahmed, Tayyab Tahir, Mohammad Rizwan, Mohammad Haris, Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Usama Mir, Faheem Ashraf, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Afridi.

India squad for Asia Cup: Yet to be announced

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India and Pakistan are set to lock horns in the forthcoming Asia Cup 2023 edition, which will be held in Pakistan and Sri Lanka. The upcoming continental tournament kicks off on August 30 and arch-rivals India and Pakistan will lock horns on September 02 in Pallekele.

India and Pakistan are set to lock horns in the forthcoming Asia Cup 2023 edition, which will be held in Pakistan and Sri Lanka. The upcoming continental tournament kicks off on August 30 and arch-rivals India and Pakistan will lock horns on September 02 in Pallekele. The two sides are likely to meet in the Super Four round and can also lock horns in the summit clash, to be held in Colombo on September 17. Ahead of the tournament, former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria feels Babar Azam & Co. have the edge over Team India as the latter are unsettled at the moment. 'Pakistan have the edge, as India don't look settled at the moment' Kaneria said during a live session on his official YouTube channel, "Pakistan have the edge, as India don't look settled at the moment. They don't know which fast bowlers are going to play. In their spin department, Yuzvendra Chahal has been inconsistent. Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, and Ravindra Jadeja should be the three spinners, according to me. If they want a spinner on standby, Ravi Bishnoi should get the nod." Also read: Ashwin reacts after Dravid shows concern for India's batting depth, shares suggestion for CWC '23 The former Pakistan spinner further added, "KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer have been practicing at the NCA and are mostly likely going to be included in India's squad for the upcoming major tournaments. However, you cannot bring someone into the team just on the basis of practice. They will have to play matches and should be added to the team only if they show good form there." Team India recently ended their all-format tour of West Indies, on August 13, where they won the Test series 1-0 and the three ODIs 2-1 but lost the five T20Is 2-3. A second-stringed Indian team will now tour Ireland, for three T20Is, where Jasprit Bumrah marks his international return since September 2022. The national side will also hope for Iyer and Rahul's comeback ahead of the Asia Cup as their backups, Sanju Samson and Suryakumar Yadav, continue to remain inconsistent. Pakistan squad for Asia Cup: Babar Azam (c), Abdullah Shafique, Fakhar Zaman, Imam-ul-Haq, Salman Ali Agha, Iftikhar Ahmed, Tayyab Tahir, Mohammad Rizwan, Mohammad Haris, Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Usama Mir, Faheem Ashraf, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Afridi. India squad for Asia Cup: Yet to be announced WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Asia Cup 2023: Pakistan have the edge, India not settled at the moment, feels former spinner Danish Kaneria