Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar has said he wants to see Virat Kohli break the legendary Sachin Tendulkar's record of 100 centuries in international cricket. Kohli's form has been under the scanner for a while now but the senior Team India batter has managed to spark a turnaround in the ongoing Asia Cup 2022.

Kohli has looked in decent touch in the Asia Cup so far with crucial knocks in India's first two matches against Pakistan and Hong Kong. He bagged a crucial 35-run-knock against Pakistan in the opener and followed it up with a brilliant fifty against Hong Kong to help the Men in Blue bag two wins in a row in the tournament.

Though he looked in good rhythm en route to his 44-ball 59 against Hong Kong, Kohli's innings lacked firepower and he was seen struggling to middle the ball on several occasions. Akhtar agreed Kohli is still not on top of his game and suggested waiting till the T20 World Cup 2022 if the shortest format is still a viable option for him going ahead.

“Virat Kohli hasn't been middling the ball really well. Both innings were quite patchy. He scored 59, I wish him the best. Mera ye hi mashwara hoga Kohli ko ki dekh lo World Cup tak (My only suggestion to Kohli is to just wait till the T20 World Cup), if this format suits your or doesn't suit you. 30 centuries karni hain aur aage (you have to score 30 more centuries),” Akhtar said in a video on his YouTube channel.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-2022-gautam-gambhir-explains-why-india-have-advantage-over-pakistan-in-super-4-clash-512764">Asia Cup 2022 -&nbsp;Gautam Gambhir explains why India have advantage over Pakistan in Super 4 clash</a>

Akhar further backed Kohli to break Tendulkar's record of scoring 100 centuries in international cricket. Tendulkar holds the record for smashing the most number of centuries in international cricket and is the only man in the history of the sport to reach the 100 centuries mark.

With 70 centuries under his belt, Kohli is the closest to Tendulkar's record among the active batters. He is currently behind only Tendulkar and former Australia captain Ricky Ponting (71) in the list of batters with the most centuries in international cricket.

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Akhtar believes Kohli can go on to establish his credentials as the greatest of all time if he can score 30 more centuries in his international career. However, the Pakistan pacer insisted the remaining 30 centuries will be the toughest ones for the senior India batter, who has not scored a ton for Team India since November 2019.

“You can become the greatest player forever. You have to convince yourself that you are the greatest ever. This is going to be the hardest 30 centuries -- if he scores. When he goes to the longest formats, he will get time to settle. Here, he is trying but the time is less, you have to maintain a good strike rate, you have to ensure the team wins,"&nbsp;said Akthar.

"He is positive, he is aggressive.. he is a great player, but I really want him to score a 100 centuries and break Sachin Tendulkar's record. It looks impossible right now, but this man can do it,” he added.

Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar has said he wants to see Virat Kohli break the legendary Sachin Tendulkar's record of 100 centuries in international cricket.

Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar has said he wants to see Virat Kohli break the legendary Sachin Tendulkar's record of 100 centuries in international cricket. Kohli's form has been under the scanner for a while now but the senior Team India batter has managed to spark a turnaround in the ongoing Asia Cup 2022. Kohli has looked in decent touch in the Asia Cup so far with crucial knocks in India's first two matches against Pakistan and Hong Kong. He bagged a crucial 35-run-knock against Pakistan in the opener and followed it up with a brilliant fifty against Hong Kong to help the Men in Blue bag two wins in a row in the tournament. Though he looked in good rhythm en route to his 44-ball 59 against Hong Kong, Kohli's innings lacked firepower and he was seen struggling to middle the ball on several occasions. Akhtar agreed Kohli is still not on top of his game and suggested waiting till the T20 World Cup 2022 if the shortest format is still a viable option for him going ahead. “Virat Kohli hasn't been middling the ball really well. Both innings were quite patchy. He scored 59, I wish him the best. Mera ye hi mashwara hoga Kohli ko ki dekh lo World Cup tak (My only suggestion to Kohli is to just wait till the T20 World Cup), if this format suits your or doesn't suit you. 30 centuries karni hain aur aage (you have to score 30 more centuries),” Akhtar said in a video on his YouTube channel. Also Read: Asia Cup 2022 - Gautam Gambhir explains why India have advantage over Pakistan in Super 4 clash Akhar further backed Kohli to break Tendulkar's record of scoring 100 centuries in international cricket. Tendulkar holds the record for smashing the most number of centuries in international cricket and is the only man in the history of the sport to reach the 100 centuries mark. With 70 centuries under his belt, Kohli is the closest to Tendulkar's record among the active batters. He is currently behind only Tendulkar and former Australia captain Ricky Ponting (71) in the list of batters with the most centuries in international cricket. Also Read: Deepak Hooda in for Ravindra Jadeja? India's predicted playing XI for Asia Cup Super 4 clash against Pakistan Akhtar believes Kohli can go on to establish his credentials as the greatest of all time if he can score 30 more centuries in his international career. However, the Pakistan pacer insisted the remaining 30 centuries will be the toughest ones for the senior India batter, who has not scored a ton for Team India since November 2019. “You can become the greatest player forever. You have to convince yourself that you are the greatest ever. This is going to be the hardest 30 centuries -- if he scores. When he goes to the longest formats, he will get time to settle. Here, he is trying but the time is less, you have to maintain a good strike rate, you have to ensure the team wins," said Akthar. "He is positive, he is aggressive.. he is a great player, but I really want him to score a 100 centuries and break Sachin Tendulkar's record. It looks impossible right now, but this man can do it,” he added.

I really want Virat Kohli to score 100 centuries and break Sachin Tendulkar's record: Shoaib Akhtar

Former Pakistan skipper Waqar Younis recently opened up about Rishabh Pant's abilities, admitting that he was one of the finest players to ever swing a bat for Team India.

In addition to waxing lyrical about Pant's abilities, Younis expressed astonishment at the fact that India had the luxury to bench a prolific batsman like him.

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"This is a luxury. The guy who is sitting on your bench, we are all sitting and discussing why he isn't playing. So I think that's a big plus for India," said Younis while in conversation that was hosted by OneCricket.&nbsp;

Younis also offered his candid take on where Pant would be more suited on Team India's batting lineup. Pant did not feature in India's roster in their opening match against Pakistan.

"And the way Rishabh Pant plays, it's amazing to watch. From the commentary box, and even viewers love the way he plays. For me, I feel he should be a part of the top-4. Because when the field is in, I don't see a more dangerous batter than him," said Younis.

He was included in their next match against Hong Kong; however, he did not receive the opportunity to step out onto the pitch to participate actively as a batsman.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mohammad-rizwan-admits-no-one-in-the-pakistani-bowling-order-can-fill-shaheen-afridis-shoes-512858" hreflang="en">Mohammad Rizwan admits no one in the Pakistani bowling attack can fill Shaheen Afridi's shoes</a>

Rishabh Pant will feature on India's lineup as they prepare themselves to run it back with Pakistan in their Super Four clash in the Asia Cup.

The Men in Blue, who overcame the challenge presented by The Shaheens in their initial clash will hope to replicate the result and bolster their charge in the Asia Cup.

Former Pakistan skipper Waqar Younis recently opened up about Rishabh Pant's abilities, admitting that he was one of the finest players to ever swing a bat for Team India.

Former Pakistan skipper Waqar Younis recently opened up about Rishabh Pant's abilities, admitting that he was one of the finest players to ever swing a bat for Team India. In addition to waxing lyrical about Pant's abilities, Younis expressed astonishment at the fact that India had the luxury to bench a prolific batsman like him. ALSO READ: Mohammad Hafeez calls upon Babar Azam to 'show some heart ' and drop down to No. 3 ahead of IND vs PAK "This is a luxury. The guy who is sitting on your bench, we are all sitting and discussing why he isn't playing. So I think that's a big plus for India," said Younis while in conversation that was hosted by OneCricket. Younis also offered his candid take on where Pant would be more suited on Team India's batting lineup. Pant did not feature in India's roster in their opening match against Pakistan. "And the way Rishabh Pant plays, it's amazing to watch. From the commentary box, and even viewers love the way he plays. For me, I feel he should be a part of the top-4. Because when the field is in, I don't see a more dangerous batter than him," said Younis. He was included in their next match against Hong Kong; however, he did not receive the opportunity to step out onto the pitch to participate actively as a batsman. ALSO READ: Mohammad Rizwan admits no one in the Pakistani bowling attack can fill Shaheen Afridi's shoes Rishabh Pant will feature on India's lineup as they prepare themselves to run it back with Pakistan in their Super Four clash in the Asia Cup. The Men in Blue, who overcame the challenge presented by The Shaheens in their initial clash will hope to replicate the result and bolster their charge in the Asia Cup.

'Don't see a more dangerous batter': Former Pakistan skipper wants Rishabh Pant to bat in Top-4 for India

Cricket matches between India and Pakistan are perhaps some of the most highly anticipated and exhilarating encounters in international cricket that fans wait for with bated breath.

Considering the quality of cricket that is played during those encounters, it's not just Indian and Pakistani fans who watch the two teams lock horns with each other.

Discussing the stakes of the matches between the geographically adjacent countries, Indian batting maestro Suryakumar Yadav offered fans some insight into how players perceive the intensity of these matches differently from fans all over the world.&nbsp;

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Ahead of the second edition of India's high-octane clash against Pakistan, Suryakumar Yadav opened up about the same while in conversation with Star Sports.

"Obviously, when I was growing up, there have been lots of talks regarding the India-Pakistan game and people say it's the greatest rivalry, but when I or anyone go on the ground, it's like we are playing just another game.

"When we enter the field, all our preparations, all our routines, what we have been doing for any other game, it just reflects on the ground. So, when I go on the ground, it's all the same.

"I don't think what rivalry has been happening and what the expectations from outside etc. are. So, I just try to stay in my zone and play the game," said Yadav.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sanjay-manjrekar-shines-a-light-on-major-flaw-in-pakistans-approach-to-t20-cricket-512831" hreflang="en">'Laying too deep a foundation': Sanjay Manjrekar sheds light on major flaw in Pakistan's T20I approach</a>

Suryakumar Yadav has become an extremely essential cog in India's batting order, putting in highly impressive performances on the trot.&nbsp;

Yadav most recently recorded an exceptional performance in India's latest outing in the Asia Cup, scoring&nbsp;68* off merely 26 balls, a performance that earned him the 'Player of the Match' award.

The middle-order batsman will be an equally essential part of India's batting lineup in their upcoming clash against Pakistan as he will hope to help carry the Men in Blue to victory.

Cricket matches between India and Pakistan are perhaps some of the most highly anticipated and exhilarating encounters in international cricket that fans wait for with bated breath.

Cricket matches between India and Pakistan are perhaps some of the most highly anticipated and exhilarating encounters in international cricket that fans wait for with bated breath. Considering the quality of cricket that is played during those encounters, it's not just Indian and Pakistani fans who watch the two teams lock horns with each other. Discussing the stakes of the matches between the geographically adjacent countries, Indian batting maestro Suryakumar Yadav offered fans some insight into how players perceive the intensity of these matches differently from fans all over the world. ALSO READ: IND vs PAK, Asia Cup 2022 prediction: Who will win today's Super Four clash between India and Pakistan? Ahead of the second edition of India's high-octane clash against Pakistan, Suryakumar Yadav opened up about the same while in conversation with Star Sports. "Obviously, when I was growing up, there have been lots of talks regarding the India-Pakistan game and people say it's the greatest rivalry, but when I or anyone go on the ground, it's like we are playing just another game. "When we enter the field, all our preparations, all our routines, what we have been doing for any other game, it just reflects on the ground. So, when I go on the ground, it's all the same. "I don't think what rivalry has been happening and what the expectations from outside etc. are. So, I just try to stay in my zone and play the game," said Yadav. ALSO READ: 'Laying too deep a foundation': Sanjay Manjrekar sheds light on major flaw in Pakistan's T20I approach Suryakumar Yadav has become an extremely essential cog in India's batting order, putting in highly impressive performances on the trot. Yadav most recently recorded an exceptional performance in India's latest outing in the Asia Cup, scoring 68* off merely 26 balls, a performance that earned him the 'Player of the Match' award. The middle-order batsman will be an equally essential part of India's batting lineup in their upcoming clash against Pakistan as he will hope to help carry the Men in Blue to victory.

'Just another game': Suryakumar Yadav downplays immense hype surrounding India-Pakistan rivalry

Pakistan have been trudging through their Asia Cup campaign in the absence of their marquee bowler, Shaheen Afridi. The team's wicketkeeper, Mohammad Rizwan, offered his take on Afridi's absence and whether the Men in Green had a bowler who was worthy to replace Afridi.

Afridi was effectively shackled to the sidelines due to an injury that he sustained to his knee during Pakistan's two-match series with Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

He has since been sidelined as he pursues medical treatment and goes through the lengthy rehabilitation that is involved with the injury that he sustained.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-pak-asia-cup-2022-prediction-who-will-win-todays-super-four-clash-between-india-and-pakistan-512843" hreflang="en">IND vs PAK, Asia Cup 2022 prediction: Who will win today's Super Four clash between India and Pakistan?</a>

The wicketkeeper-batsman offered fans some insight into the void that Afridi had left behind in the wake of his injury. He asserted that his talent was such that it cannot be replicated by any player in Pakistan's crop at this point in time.&nbsp;

"I've talked to the bowlers before. I will be very honest here, no bowler from this group can replace Shaheen. This is my honest answer.

"The way he (Shaheen) has performed in the past 1-2 years, no bowler can come into the side and fill his shoes," admitted Rizwan while in conversation with the media in the aftermath of their Group A clash against Hong Kong.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mohammad-hafeez-calls-upon-babar-azam-to-show-some-heart-and-drop-down-to-no-3-ahead-of-ind-vs-pak-512847" hreflang="en">Mohammad Hafeez calls upon Babar Azam to 'show some heart ' and drop down to No. 3 ahead of IND vs PAK</a>

However, he went on to admit that The Shaheens were not suffering a complete drought in terms of talent in their bowling order, referring to up-and-coming stars like teenage sensation Naseem Shah and the 24-year-old Shahnawaz Dahani.&nbsp;

"But, we can get another Shaheen and this is an opportunity for our other fast bowlers. The way Naseem and Dahani have performed.. and Haris is already a part of the side, so we are hopeful," admitted Rizwan.

The&nbsp;bowlers have played a vital role in bolstering Pakistan's charge in the Asia Cup in Afridi's absence. They will hope to replicate the success that they enjoyed in the initial rounds of the tournament&nbsp;to go all the way and eventually&nbsp;emerge triumphant.

Pakistan have been trudging through their Asia Cup campaign in the absence of their marquee bowler, Shaheen Afridi. The team's wicketkeeper, Mohammad Rizwan, offered his take on Afridi's absence and whether the Men in Green had a bowler who was worthy to replace Afridi.

Pakistan have been trudging through their Asia Cup campaign in the absence of their marquee bowler, Shaheen Afridi. The team's wicketkeeper, Mohammad Rizwan, offered his take on Afridi's absence and whether the Men in Green had a bowler who was worthy to replace Afridi. Afridi was effectively shackled to the sidelines due to an injury that he sustained to his knee during Pakistan's two-match series with Sri Lanka. He has since been sidelined as he pursues medical treatment and goes through the lengthy rehabilitation that is involved with the injury that he sustained. ALSO READ: IND vs PAK, Asia Cup 2022 prediction: Who will win today's Super Four clash between India and Pakistan? The wicketkeeper-batsman offered fans some insight into the void that Afridi had left behind in the wake of his injury. He asserted that his talent was such that it cannot be replicated by any player in Pakistan's crop at this point in time. "I've talked to the bowlers before. I will be very honest here, no bowler from this group can replace Shaheen. This is my honest answer. "The way he (Shaheen) has performed in the past 1-2 years, no bowler can come into the side and fill his shoes," admitted Rizwan while in conversation with the media in the aftermath of their Group A clash against Hong Kong. ALSO READ: Mohammad Hafeez calls upon Babar Azam to 'show some heart ' and drop down to No. 3 ahead of IND vs PAK However, he went on to admit that The Shaheens were not suffering a complete drought in terms of talent in their bowling order, referring to up-and-coming stars like teenage sensation Naseem Shah and the 24-year-old Shahnawaz Dahani. "But, we can get another Shaheen and this is an opportunity for our other fast bowlers. The way Naseem and Dahani have performed.. and Haris is already a part of the side, so we are hopeful," admitted Rizwan. The bowlers have played a vital role in bolstering Pakistan's charge in the Asia Cup in Afridi's absence. They will hope to replicate the success that they enjoyed in the initial rounds of the tournament to go all the way and eventually emerge triumphant.

Mohammad Rizwan admits no one in the Pakistani bowling attack can fill Shaheen Afridi's shoes

Former Pakistan captain Mohammad Hafeez recently offered his take on what he expects the team's leadership to do in order to make their way to the top of the food chain in the international cricketing circuit.

He recently called upon the reigning Pakistan captain Babar Azam to step out of his comfort zone and allow in-form batsmen to lead Pakistan's charge on the batting front.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sanjay-manjrekar-shines-a-light-on-major-flaw-in-pakistans-approach-to-t20-cricket-512831" hreflang="en">'Laying too deep a foundation': Sanjay Manjrekar sheds light on major flaw in Pakistan's T20I approach</a>

He opened up about the same while reviewing Pakistan's performance on PTV Sports. Hafeez argued that Fakhar Zaman should be offered the opportunity to lead Pakistan's attack from the get-go.

"This debate has been going on for some time. If we look at their success rate, I think we should stop discussing about this till the World Cup. Let them play. The only thing they need to improve is their strike rate and intent.

"Although I agree, Fakhar should open. But it can only happen if Babar shows big heart as a captain and leaves his comfort zone to play at no.3 and emerge as a leader. He should utilise the other player if he thinks he can play better," said Hafeez.

He subsequently asserted that the decision to switch up the batting order ultimately rests in the hands of the team's administration and Azam himself.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-pak-asia-cup-2022-prediction-who-will-win-todays-super-four-clash-between-india-and-pakistan-512843" hreflang="en">IND vs PAK, Asia Cup 2022 prediction: Who will win today's Super Four clash between India and Pakistan?</a>

However, he urged Azam to consider stepping out of his comfort zone and rely&nbsp;on more effective batsmen for the benefit of the team.

Although Azam is popularly hailed as one of the most efficient and accomplished batting talents in the world, his performance in the ongoing Asia Cup has been fairly underwhelming, prompting criticism from fans and pundits from all over the world.

Former Pakistan captain Mohammad Hafeez recently offered his take on what he expects the team's leadership to do in order to make their way to the top of the food chain in the international cricketing circuit.

Former Pakistan captain Mohammad Hafeez recently offered his take on what he expects the team's leadership to do in order to make their way to the top of the food chain in the international cricketing circuit. He recently called upon the reigning Pakistan captain Babar Azam to step out of his comfort zone and allow in-form batsmen to lead Pakistan's charge on the batting front. ALSO READ: 'Laying too deep a foundation': Sanjay Manjrekar sheds light on major flaw in Pakistan's T20I approach He opened up about the same while reviewing Pakistan's performance on PTV Sports. Hafeez argued that Fakhar Zaman should be offered the opportunity to lead Pakistan's attack from the get-go. "This debate has been going on for some time. If we look at their success rate, I think we should stop discussing about this till the World Cup. Let them play. The only thing they need to improve is their strike rate and intent. "Although I agree, Fakhar should open. But it can only happen if Babar shows big heart as a captain and leaves his comfort zone to play at no.3 and emerge as a leader. He should utilise the other player if he thinks he can play better," said Hafeez. He subsequently asserted that the decision to switch up the batting order ultimately rests in the hands of the team's administration and Azam himself. ALSO READ: IND vs PAK, Asia Cup 2022 prediction: Who will win today's Super Four clash between India and Pakistan? However, he urged Azam to consider stepping out of his comfort zone and rely on more effective batsmen for the benefit of the team. Although Azam is popularly hailed as one of the most efficient and accomplished batting talents in the world, his performance in the ongoing Asia Cup has been fairly underwhelming, prompting criticism from fans and pundits from all over the world.

Mohammad Hafeez calls upon Babar Azam to 'show some heart ' and drop down to No. 3 ahead of IND vs PAK

India will be looking to continue their unbeaten run in the ongoing Asia Cup 2022 when they lock horns with Pakistan for the second time in the tournament on Sunday (September 04). India defeated Pakistan by five wickets in their opening clash at the Dubai International Stadium last week and will be aiming to make it two wins in a row against Babar Azam &amp; Co. in the Super Four.

India have so far managed to live up to the favourites tag in the tournament with back-to-back wins in their first two games against Pakistan and Hong Kong. While the batters have looked in great rhythm barring the misfiring KL Rahul, the bowling attack has done reasonably well in the absence of Jasprit Bumrah and Harshal Patel.

However, India have been marred with injury woes ahead of the blockbuster clash against Pakistan as all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja has been ruled out of the remainder of the tournament due to a knee injury while fast bowler Avesh Khan is not well and might not feature on Sunday.

In Jadeja's absence, India will have major selection calls to make as they will have to pick an ideal replacement for the all-rounder. While they have a like-to-like replacement in Axar Patel, India can also rope in Deepak Hooda into the playing XI and use him as a second all-rounder alongside Hardik Pandya.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-really-want-virat-kohli-to-score-100-centuries-and-break-sachin-tendulkars-record-shoaib-akhtar-512776">I really want Virat Kohli to score 100 centuries and break Sachin Tendulkar's record: Shoaib Akhtar</a>

India will also have to make the tough choice between wicket-keepers Rishabh Pant and Dinesh Karthik. Karthik had pipped Pant in the playing XI last time around but the left-hander is expected to keep his spot on Sunday as India lack a left-hander in their top four&nbsp;in Jadeja's absence.

Hardik will once again have to play a key role if India are to fancy their chances against Pakistan, who will be desperate to seek revenge. India might also have to make a forced change in their bowling attack if Avesh fails to make the cut.&nbsp;

It remains to be seen if R Ashwin takes his spot in the playing XI or if Deepak Chahar can be included in the squad from the reserves. Bhuvneshwar Kumar will continue to spearhead the pace attack along with Arshdeep Singh. India also have the option to play both Yuzvendra Chahal and Ravi Bishnoi in Jadeja's absence.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-2022-gautam-gambhir-explains-why-india-have-advantage-over-pakistan-in-super-4-clash-512764">Asia Cup 2022 - Gautam Gambhir explains why India have advantage over Pakistan in Super 4 clash</a>

When it comes to the head-to-head record between the two sides in T20Is, India have dominated Pakistan over the years having won eight out of the ten matches played between the two teams. They remain favourites to continue their unbeaten streak against the Men in Green in the Asia Cup 2022 on Sunday.

India vs Pakistan, Asia Cup 2022 prediction:

India appear a well-oiled unit despite the absence of a key player in Ravindra Jadeja. If the Rohit Sharm-led side can find an ideal replacement for him in the XI, they will remain favourites against Pakistan, who are without pacers Shaheen Afridi and Shahnawaz Dahani. India also have momentum on their side having won their first two games.

India will be looking to continue their unbeaten run in the ongoing Asia Cup 2022 when they lock horns with Pakistan for the second time in the tournament on Sunday (September 04).

India will be looking to continue their unbeaten run in the ongoing Asia Cup 2022 when they lock horns with Pakistan for the second time in the tournament on Sunday (September 04). India defeated Pakistan by five wickets in their opening clash at the Dubai International Stadium last week and will be aiming to make it two wins in a row against Babar Azam & Co. in the Super Four. India have so far managed to live up to the favourites tag in the tournament with back-to-back wins in their first two games against Pakistan and Hong Kong. While the batters have looked in great rhythm barring the misfiring KL Rahul, the bowling attack has done reasonably well in the absence of Jasprit Bumrah and Harshal Patel. However, India have been marred with injury woes ahead of the blockbuster clash against Pakistan as all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja has been ruled out of the remainder of the tournament due to a knee injury while fast bowler Avesh Khan is not well and might not feature on Sunday. In Jadeja's absence, India will have major selection calls to make as they will have to pick an ideal replacement for the all-rounder. While they have a like-to-like replacement in Axar Patel, India can also rope in Deepak Hooda into the playing XI and use him as a second all-rounder alongside Hardik Pandya. Also Read: I really want Virat Kohli to score 100 centuries and break Sachin Tendulkar's record: Shoaib Akhtar India will also have to make the tough choice between wicket-keepers Rishabh Pant and Dinesh Karthik. Karthik had pipped Pant in the playing XI last time around but the left-hander is expected to keep his spot on Sunday as India lack a left-hander in their top four in Jadeja's absence. Hardik will once again have to play a key role if India are to fancy their chances against Pakistan, who will be desperate to seek revenge. India might also have to make a forced change in their bowling attack if Avesh fails to make the cut. It remains to be seen if R Ashwin takes his spot in the playing XI or if Deepak Chahar can be included in the squad from the reserves. Bhuvneshwar Kumar will continue to spearhead the pace attack along with Arshdeep Singh. India also have the option to play both Yuzvendra Chahal and Ravi Bishnoi in Jadeja's absence. Also Read: Asia Cup 2022 - Gautam Gambhir explains why India have advantage over Pakistan in Super 4 clash When it comes to the head-to-head record between the two sides in T20Is, India have dominated Pakistan over the years having won eight out of the ten matches played between the two teams. They remain favourites to continue their unbeaten streak against the Men in Green in the Asia Cup 2022 on Sunday. India vs Pakistan, Asia Cup 2022 prediction: India appear a well-oiled unit despite the absence of a key player in Ravindra Jadeja. If the Rohit Sharm-led side can find an ideal replacement for him in the XI, they will remain favourites against Pakistan, who are without pacers Shaheen Afridi and Shahnawaz Dahani. India also have momentum on their side having won their first two games.

IND vs PAK, Asia Cup 2022 prediction: Who will win today's Super Four clash between India and Pakistan?

Former cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar recently offered his take on Pakistan's approach to T20 cricket and batting in the shortest format of the game.

He asserted that the Men in Green spend too long in a bid to lay the foundation for themselves while playing T20 cricket. He reviewed the Shaheens' performance in a recent post on Twitter.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-rahul-dravid-hilariously-avoids-four-letter-word-that-starts-with-s-in-presser-ahead-of-pakistan-game-512820" hreflang="en">WATCH: Rahul Dravid hilariously avoids 'four-letter word that starts with s' in presser ahead of Pakistan game</a>

Per Manjrekar, the Pakistani top order batsmen try to lay too deep a foundation which robs the middle order batsmen the opportunity to settle in comfortably and add value to their batting unit.

"Have one observation on Pakistan’s T20 cricket. They are laying too deep a foundation. For a 20-over innings, it’s unnecessary.

"What’s more it will give more opportunity to no 4,5,6 thereby making Pakistan a more wholesome batting unit, a better T20 side," wrote Manjrekar of Pakistan's performance in the shortest format of the game.

This comes shortly before Pakistan's mega-clash with arch-rivals India in the Super Four of the Asia Cup. They previously locked horns with each other in their opening clash of the tournament.&nbsp;

Although the Pakistani bowlers managed to mow through India's batting top order with relative ease, an awe-inspiring partnership from&nbsp;Hardik Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja got the Men in Blue through to the next round of their Asia Cup campaign without a loss on their record.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bangladesh-wicket-keeper-mushfiqur-rahim-retires-from-t20is-to-focus-on-odi-and-tests-512826" hreflang="en">Bangladesh wicket-keeper Mushfiqur Rahim retires from T20Is to focus on ODI and Tests</a>

While Pakistani players like Naseem Shah and Mohammad Rizwan have enjoyed an extremely successful run in the ongoing Asia Cup, skipper Babar Azam's outing this time around has been nothing to write home about.

Fans will be relying on the skipper to pull through and carry the team to glory as they approach the penultimate rounds of the tournament.

Former cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar recently offered his take on Pakistan's approach to T20 cricket and batting in the shortest format of the game. He asserted that the Men in Green spend too long in a bid to lay the foundation for themselves while playing T20 cricket.

Former cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar recently offered his take on Pakistan's approach to T20 cricket and batting in the shortest format of the game. He asserted that the Men in Green spend too long in a bid to lay the foundation for themselves while playing T20 cricket. He reviewed the Shaheens' performance in a recent post on Twitter. ALSO READ: WATCH: Rahul Dravid hilariously avoids 'four-letter word that starts with s' in presser ahead of Pakistan game Per Manjrekar, the Pakistani top order batsmen try to lay too deep a foundation which robs the middle order batsmen the opportunity to settle in comfortably and add value to their batting unit. "Have one observation on Pakistan’s T20 cricket. They are laying too deep a foundation. For a 20-over innings, it’s unnecessary. "What’s more it will give more opportunity to no 4,5,6 thereby making Pakistan a more wholesome batting unit, a better T20 side," wrote Manjrekar of Pakistan's performance in the shortest format of the game. This comes shortly before Pakistan's mega-clash with arch-rivals India in the Super Four of the Asia Cup. They previously locked horns with each other in their opening clash of the tournament. Although the Pakistani bowlers managed to mow through India's batting top order with relative ease, an awe-inspiring partnership from Hardik Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja got the Men in Blue through to the next round of their Asia Cup campaign without a loss on their record. ALSO READ: Bangladesh wicket-keeper Mushfiqur Rahim retires from T20Is to focus on ODI and Tests While Pakistani players like Naseem Shah and Mohammad Rizwan have enjoyed an extremely successful run in the ongoing Asia Cup, skipper Babar Azam's outing this time around has been nothing to write home about. Fans will be relying on the skipper to pull through and carry the team to glory as they approach the penultimate rounds of the tournament.

'Laying too deep a foundation': Sanjay Manjrekar sheds light on major flaw in Pakistan's T20I approach

Former Pakistan all-rounder Mohammad Hafeez said the Indian cricket team get 'pampered' in world cricket, not because of their performances on the pitch but because of the revenue&nbsp;the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) generates. BCCI is the richest cricket board in the world and holds significant power among the major ICC members.

The Indian cricket team also enjoys immense popularity across the globe and a staggering viewership, making their bilateral tours a great revenue source for the host nations. While BCCI remains one of the most powerful boards in the world, India have also been a formidable team across formats, over the years.

Hafeez, who has made some absurd comments about the Indian players and the Indian cricket team in the past, made yet another ludicrous claim about the Indian team's popularity across the globe. During a discussion on Pakistan channel PTV Sports, Hafeez called India the most 'laadla' (pampered) team.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-demolish-hong-kong-in-latest-outing-to-confirm-spot-in-super-four-512489">Pakistan demolish Hong Kong in latest outing to confirm spot in Super Four</a>

Hafeez took to Twitter to share&nbsp;a clip of his comments during the discussion and captioned the post&nbsp;'Laadla'

"I don't know a lot, but I definitely know that in our society, whoever is the earner is loved by everyone, is the most 'laadla' (pampered), gets the most kisses from everyone," said the former Pakistan captain.

"India is a revenue-making country. So even in bilateral series across the world, where they get sponsorship, they get a jackpot, it's hard to deny these things," he added.&nbsp;

When the anchor went on to ask the former Pakistan all-rounder if India are the 'laadlas' because they play well or they make more money, Hafeez went on to pick the latter.

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Laadla <a href="https://t.co/V48JqojFmc">pic.twitter.com/V48JqojFmc</a>
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Hafeez's recent comments come days after he called Indian skipper Rohit Sharma 'weak, afraid and confused' despite his team's five-wicket win against Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2022 opener in Dubai. Hafeez claimed Rohit looked weak and afraid when he came out for toss against Pakistan and that his body language was not good.

"You see Rohit Sharma's expression after winning the match. This expression happened after India won by 40 runs. I had talked about Rohit Sharma's body language, when he came out to toss, he looked weak, he seemed afraid and confused. I am not being able to see Rohit Sharma, whom I have observed during matches playing incredible innings. I think captaincy is putting a lot of pressure on Rohit. He is facing a lot of difficulties," the former Pakistan all-rounder had said.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-pakistan-skipper-believes-rohit-sharma-will-loose-his-captaincy-claims-he-looks-lost-512144">Former Pakistan skipper believes Rohit Sharma will lose his captaincy, claims he ‘looks lost’</a>

After defeating Pakistan in a thrilling encounter last week, India are all set to lock horns with their arch-rivals once again in the Super 4 stage of the ongoing Asia Cup 2022 at the Dubai International Stadium on Sunday (September 04). While India have two wins in the two matches they have played so far, Pakistan have won one and lost one.

Former Pakistan all-rounder Mohammad Hafeez said the Indian cricket team get 'pampered' in world cricket, not because of their performances on the pitch but because of the revenue the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) generates.

Former Pakistan all-rounder Mohammad Hafeez said the Indian cricket team get 'pampered' in world cricket, not because of their performances on the pitch but because of the revenue the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) generates. BCCI is the richest cricket board in the world and holds significant power among the major ICC members. The Indian cricket team also enjoys immense popularity across the globe and a staggering viewership, making their bilateral tours a great revenue source for the host nations. While BCCI remains one of the most powerful boards in the world, India have also been a formidable team across formats, over the years. Hafeez, who has made some absurd comments about the Indian players and the Indian cricket team in the past, made yet another ludicrous claim about the Indian team's popularity across the globe. During a discussion on Pakistan channel PTV Sports, Hafeez called India the most 'laadla' (pampered) team. Also Read: Pakistan demolish Hong Kong in latest outing to confirm spot in Super Four Hafeez took to Twitter to share a clip of his comments during the discussion and captioned the post 'Laadla' "I don't know a lot, but I definitely know that in our society, whoever is the earner is loved by everyone, is the most 'laadla' (pampered), gets the most kisses from everyone," said the former Pakistan captain. "India is a revenue-making country. So even in bilateral series across the world, where they get sponsorship, they get a jackpot, it's hard to deny these things," he added. When the anchor went on to ask the former Pakistan all-rounder if India are the 'laadlas' because they play well or they make more money, Hafeez went on to pick the latter. Laadla pic.twitter.com/V48JqojFmc — Mohammad Hafeez (@MHafeez22) September 2, 2022 × Hafeez's recent comments come days after he called Indian skipper Rohit Sharma 'weak, afraid and confused' despite his team's five-wicket win against Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2022 opener in Dubai. Hafeez claimed Rohit looked weak and afraid when he came out for toss against Pakistan and that his body language was not good. "You see Rohit Sharma's expression after winning the match. This expression happened after India won by 40 runs. I had talked about Rohit Sharma's body language, when he came out to toss, he looked weak, he seemed afraid and confused. I am not being able to see Rohit Sharma, whom I have observed during matches playing incredible innings. I think captaincy is putting a lot of pressure on Rohit. He is facing a lot of difficulties," the former Pakistan all-rounder had said. Also Read: Former Pakistan skipper believes Rohit Sharma will lose his captaincy, claims he ‘looks lost’ After defeating Pakistan in a thrilling encounter last week, India are all set to lock horns with their arch-rivals once again in the Super 4 stage of the ongoing Asia Cup 2022 at the Dubai International Stadium on Sunday (September 04). While India have two wins in the two matches they have played so far, Pakistan have won one and lost one.

India 'pampered' since they make more money, not because they play well: Mohammad Hafeez

Pakistan's Mohammad Rizwan recently offered fans some insight into the environment and mindsets that his team carry into matches against India as the arch-nemeses prepare to lock horns with each other for the second time in the Asia Cup on Sunday.

He admitted that matches against their geographical neighbours are always high-octane affairs&nbsp;as international fans wait for the action to unfold with bated breaths just as much as&nbsp;Indian and Pakistani fans.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-are-pampered-because-they-make-more-money-not-because-they-play-well-mohammad-hafeez-512564" hreflang="en">India 'pampered' since they make more money, not because they play well: Mohammad Hafeez</a>

"Playing India is always a pressure game. The whole world, even beyond Asia, wait for it. The pressure will be equally on India and us, but the result will be with whoever remains brave and keeps calm," said Rizwan while in conversation with the media on Friday.

Rizwan further admitted that he often advises his teammates to keep matters simple on the pitch and maintain the same attitude regardless of who their opponent is, India or another country.&nbsp;

"I tell players, whether you play India or Hong Kong, it's a game of bat and ball. So keep it simple. Yes, it's a big game and our confidence is high but only hard work is in our hands, as the result is from God," declared the wicketkeeper.

Rizwan subsequently opened up about the pressure on the team to make their way into the finals and eventually emerge triumphant.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-has-never-been-a-great-t20-player-he-cant-be-like-rohit-or-suryakumar-says-ex-pakistan-captain-512615" hreflang="en">Virat Kohli has never been a great T20 player, he can't be like Rohit or Suryakumar, says ex-Pakistan captain</a>

Since India and Pakistan only play each other in international tournaments, their matches are often a coveted treat that fans are offered if their stars align. Therefore, fans are anticipating a third clash between the two in the finals.&nbsp;

Having suffered a loss at the hands of the Men in Blue in their opening game of the tournament, The Shaheens will hope to settle the score in their upcoming match. Whether they will accomplish the feat is something that remains to be seen.

Pakistan's Mohammad Rizwan recently offered fans some insight into the environment and mindsets that his team carry into matches against India as the arch-nemeses prepare to lock horns with each other for the second time in the Asia Cup on Sunday.

Pakistan's Mohammad Rizwan recently offered fans some insight into the environment and mindsets that his team carry into matches against India as the arch-nemeses prepare to lock horns with each other for the second time in the Asia Cup on Sunday. He admitted that matches against their geographical neighbours are always high-octane affairs as international fans wait for the action to unfold with bated breaths just as much as Indian and Pakistani fans. ALSO READ: India 'pampered' since they make more money, not because they play well: Mohammad Hafeez "Playing India is always a pressure game. The whole world, even beyond Asia, wait for it. The pressure will be equally on India and us, but the result will be with whoever remains brave and keeps calm," said Rizwan while in conversation with the media on Friday. Rizwan further admitted that he often advises his teammates to keep matters simple on the pitch and maintain the same attitude regardless of who their opponent is, India or another country. "I tell players, whether you play India or Hong Kong, it's a game of bat and ball. So keep it simple. Yes, it's a big game and our confidence is high but only hard work is in our hands, as the result is from God," declared the wicketkeeper. Rizwan subsequently opened up about the pressure on the team to make their way into the finals and eventually emerge triumphant. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli has never been a great T20 player, he can't be like Rohit or Suryakumar, says ex-Pakistan captain Since India and Pakistan only play each other in international tournaments, their matches are often a coveted treat that fans are offered if their stars align. Therefore, fans are anticipating a third clash between the two in the finals. Having suffered a loss at the hands of the Men in Blue in their opening game of the tournament, The Shaheens will hope to settle the score in their upcoming match. Whether they will accomplish the feat is something that remains to be seen.

'Always a pressure game': Pakistan's Mohammad Rizwan on facing India in Asia Cup 2022 yet again

Mohammad Rizwan propelled Pakistan into the Asia Cup Super Four stage after their bowlers skittled out minnows Hong Kong for a record low of 38 on Friday.

Pakistan scored 193-2 in a must-win Twenty20 international with Rizwan (78 not out) and Fakhar Zaman (53) putting on 116 after being invited to bat first on a slow and low Sharjah pitch.

Pakistan spinners Shadab Khan and Mohammad Nawaz then shared seven wickets to bundle out Hong Kong in just 10.4 overs and win by 155 runs.

It was Hong Kong's lowest T20 international total after their 69 against Nepal in 2014 and also their lowest against Pakistan, who had bowled out West Indies for 60 in 2018.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/businessmen-to-delivery-boys-hong-kong-cricketers-shine-on-big-stage-512419" hreflang="en">Businessmen to delivery boys: Hong Kong cricketers shine on big stage</a>

Pakistan join Afghanistan, India and Sri Lanka in round two of the six-nation tournament that acts as a tune-up to the T20 World Cup in October-November in Australia.

Pace bowler Naseem Shah struck twice in the third over of the Hong Kong innings, including the wicket of skipper Nizakat Khan for eight.

Hong Kong, who made the main draw by winning all their three matches in the qualifiers, could not recover.

Shadab returned with figures of 4-8 from his leg spin and Nawaz took three wickets with his left-arm orthodox.

Earlier, Khushdil Shah hit five sixes, including four in the final over, to finish with a flourish in his unbeaten 35 off 15 balls as Rizwan watched the blitz from the non-striker's end in a partnership of 64.

Hong Kong's bowlers kept the Pakistan openers in check with a disciplined line and length and spinner Ehsan Khan got the key wicket of skipper Babar Azam for nine in the third over.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-babar-azam-sent-packing-with-quick-return-catch-from-hong-kongs-ehsan-khan-512486" hreflang="en">Watch: Babar Azam sent packing with quick return catch from Hong Kong’s Ehsan Khan</a>

Azam hit a four off Ehsan's off spin but the bowler soon took revenge with a caught and bowled to silence a pro-Pakistan crowd. The left-handed Fakhar joined Rizwan, a wicketkeeper-batsman, and the two rebuilt the innings. Rizwan reached his fifty off 42 balls to raise the bat amid raucous applause form the crowd.

Fakhar also changed gears and reached his fifty with a towering six off Murtaza's left-arm spin, but got out next over to Ehsan after a 41-ball stay. Khushdil then tore into the opposition bowling and ended the innings with three successive sixes.

Afghanistan will meet Sri Lanka in the Super Four opener on Saturday in Sharjah while India clash with rivals Pakistan for the second time in the tournament on Sunday.

Mohammad Rizwan propelled Pakistan into the Asia Cup Super Four stage after their bowlers skittled out minnows Hong Kong for a record low of 38 on Friday. Pakistan scored 193-2 in a must-win Twenty20 international with Rizwan (78 not out) and Fakhar Zaman (53) putting on 116 after being invited to bat first on a slow and low Sharjah pitch.

Mohammad Rizwan propelled Pakistan into the Asia Cup Super Four stage after their bowlers skittled out minnows Hong Kong for a record low of 38 on Friday. Pakistan scored 193-2 in a must-win Twenty20 international with Rizwan (78 not out) and Fakhar Zaman (53) putting on 116 after being invited to bat first on a slow and low Sharjah pitch. Pakistan spinners Shadab Khan and Mohammad Nawaz then shared seven wickets to bundle out Hong Kong in just 10.4 overs and win by 155 runs. It was Hong Kong's lowest T20 international total after their 69 against Nepal in 2014 and also their lowest against Pakistan, who had bowled out West Indies for 60 in 2018. ALSO READ: Businessmen to delivery boys: Hong Kong cricketers shine on big stage Pakistan join Afghanistan, India and Sri Lanka in round two of the six-nation tournament that acts as a tune-up to the T20 World Cup in October-November in Australia. Pace bowler Naseem Shah struck twice in the third over of the Hong Kong innings, including the wicket of skipper Nizakat Khan for eight. Hong Kong, who made the main draw by winning all their three matches in the qualifiers, could not recover. Shadab returned with figures of 4-8 from his leg spin and Nawaz took three wickets with his left-arm orthodox. Earlier, Khushdil Shah hit five sixes, including four in the final over, to finish with a flourish in his unbeaten 35 off 15 balls as Rizwan watched the blitz from the non-striker's end in a partnership of 64. Hong Kong's bowlers kept the Pakistan openers in check with a disciplined line and length and spinner Ehsan Khan got the key wicket of skipper Babar Azam for nine in the third over. ALSO READ: Watch: Babar Azam sent packing with quick return catch from Hong Kong’s Ehsan Khan Azam hit a four off Ehsan's off spin but the bowler soon took revenge with a caught and bowled to silence a pro-Pakistan crowd. The left-handed Fakhar joined Rizwan, a wicketkeeper-batsman, and the two rebuilt the innings. Rizwan reached his fifty off 42 balls to raise the bat amid raucous applause form the crowd. Fakhar also changed gears and reached his fifty with a towering six off Murtaza's left-arm spin, but got out next over to Ehsan after a 41-ball stay. Khushdil then tore into the opposition bowling and ended the innings with three successive sixes. Afghanistan will meet Sri Lanka in the Super Four opener on Saturday in Sharjah while India clash with rivals Pakistan for the second time in the tournament on Sunday.

Asia Cup 2022: Pakistan thrash Hong Kong by 155 runs, storm into Super Four

Hong Kong spinner Ehsan Khan dented Pakistan's chances of victory by taking out their star batsman and skipper Babar Azam with a jaw-dropping return catch in the initial stages of their Asia Cup clash.

He bolstered his team's chances&nbsp;of emerging victorious from this matchup as he picked up a low catch to send Azam, who merely managed to record&nbsp;9 off 8 deliveries, on his way.&nbsp;The fact that it was Khan himself who bowled the ball that led to the wicket makes the feat all the more impressive.&nbsp;

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*💥 WICKET:* 🎯 🎳 Pakistan 🇵🇰 13/1 (2.5/20 ov, lost the toss) v Hong Kong 🇭🇰 
Babar Azam c &amp; b Ehsan Khan 9 (8) 
Ehsan Khan 0.5-0-6-1 🔰 <a href="https://t.co/eRoIADXWiA">pic.twitter.com/eRoIADXWiA</a>
— Muhammad Irfan (@Muhamma04263819) <a href="https://twitter.com/Muhamma04263819/status/1565710397768105984?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 2, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/huge-blow-for-india-as-ravindra-jadeja-ruled-out-of-asia-cup-2022-axar-patel-named-replacement-512390" hreflang="en">Huge blow for India as Ravindra Jadeja ruled out of Asia Cup 2022, Axar Patel named replacement</a>

Although Azam entered the tournament hot on the heels of a series of impressive performances and red-hot form. However, he has failed to replicate the same success in furthering his team's cause in the tournament.

Azam was only able to put 10 runs on the board in Pakistan's opening clash against arch-rivals India before he was forced to chart a course back to the stands courtesy of India's veteran pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Arshdeep Singh pitching in with a fine catch.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/businessmen-to-delivery-boys-hong-kong-cricketers-shine-on-big-stage-512419" hreflang="en">Businessmen to delivery boys: Hong Kong cricketers shine on big stage</a>

However, Ehsan's efforts were just not enough for Hong Kong to overcome the challenge presented by Pakistan as the Men in Green eventually went on to emerge triumphant as The Shaheens' bowlers managed to bowl Hong Kong out for a mere 38 runs, sprinting away with a 155 run victory.

With this victory, Pakistan consolidated their position in the Super Four alongside former foes and nemeses India. Having trudged through a some&nbsp;unflattering performances in the ongoing Asia Cup, Babar Azam and his band of speedsters will hope to turn the tables on their fortune with their stunning performance against Hong Kong at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium.&nbsp;

Hong Kong spinner Ehsan Khan dented Pakistan's chances of victory by taking out their star batsman and skipper Babar Azam with a jaw-dropping return catch in the initial stages of their Asia Cup clash.

Hong Kong spinner Ehsan Khan dented Pakistan's chances of victory by taking out their star batsman and skipper Babar Azam with a jaw-dropping return catch in the initial stages of their Asia Cup clash. He bolstered his team's chances of emerging victorious from this matchup as he picked up a low catch to send Azam, who merely managed to record 9 off 8 deliveries, on his way. The fact that it was Khan himself who bowled the ball that led to the wicket makes the feat all the more impressive. *💥 WICKET:* 🎯 🎳 Pakistan 🇵🇰 13/1 (2.5/20 ov, lost the toss) v Hong Kong 🇭🇰 Babar Azam c & b Ehsan Khan 9 (8) Ehsan Khan 0.5-0-6-1 🔰 pic.twitter.com/eRoIADXWiA — Muhammad Irfan (@Muhamma04263819) September 2, 2022 × ALSO READ: Huge blow for India as Ravindra Jadeja ruled out of Asia Cup 2022, Axar Patel named replacement Although Azam entered the tournament hot on the heels of a series of impressive performances and red-hot form. However, he has failed to replicate the same success in furthering his team's cause in the tournament. Azam was only able to put 10 runs on the board in Pakistan's opening clash against arch-rivals India before he was forced to chart a course back to the stands courtesy of India's veteran pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Arshdeep Singh pitching in with a fine catch. ALSO READ: Businessmen to delivery boys: Hong Kong cricketers shine on big stage However, Ehsan's efforts were just not enough for Hong Kong to overcome the challenge presented by Pakistan as the Men in Green eventually went on to emerge triumphant as The Shaheens' bowlers managed to bowl Hong Kong out for a mere 38 runs, sprinting away with a 155 run victory. With this victory, Pakistan consolidated their position in the Super Four alongside former foes and nemeses India. Having trudged through a some unflattering performances in the ongoing Asia Cup, Babar Azam and his band of speedsters will hope to turn the tables on their fortune with their stunning performance against Hong Kong at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium.

Watch: Babar Azam sent packing with quick return catch from Hong Kong’s Ehsan Khan

Former Pakistan skipper and one of their most prolific batsmen, Mohammad Hafeez recently offered a scathing review of Rohit Sharma's performance as the captain of team India. In addition to claiming that he looks lost, and weak, Hafeez declared that Sharma currently runs the risk of losing his captaincy.

Sharma has led the Men in Blue to two triumphs in their ongoing Asia Cup campaign, with one victory coming against their arch-rivals, Pakistan. However, it seems like Hafeez is far from impressed.&nbsp;

In a video that he recently shared on social media, Hafeez was seen flaming Sharma for the way he has gone about performing his duties as skipper. Hafeez, who was analysing his performance in a segment on PTV, declared that captaincy had exacted a heavy toll on Sharma.

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My opinion on <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRo45?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImRo45</a> captaincy in Asia cup <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GameOnHai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GameOnHai</a> <a href="https://t.co/dBzVX2Pgfu">pic.twitter.com/dBzVX2Pgfu</a>
— Mohammad Hafeez (@MHafeez22) <a href="https://twitter.com/MHafeez22/status/1565325895468032002?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 1, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharmas-india-register-most-t20i-wins-in-a-calendar-year-after-going-past-hong-kong-in-asia-cup-2022-512106" hreflang="en">Rohit Sharma's India register most T20I wins in a calendar year after going past Hong Kong in Asia Cup 2022</a>

Hafeez broke down Sharma's mannerisms in the aftermath of India's clash against Hong Kong, which they went on to win by a margin of 40-runs. Despite walking away with the win, India were not at their best and matters could have gone down to the wire if it weren't for a scintillating performance from Suryakumar Yadav.&nbsp;

"Look at his expression. This is Rohit Sharma’s expression after the game got finished. And they have won by 40 runs. His body language was weak when he came out to toss. I thought he was scared and confused. I can’t see Rohit Sharma whom I know. That Rohit Sharma who has played blinder of knocks,” said Hafeez.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-bags-impressive-t20i-record-following-inspiring-performance-against-hong-kong-in-asia-cup-512130" hreflang="en">Virat Kohli bags impressive T20I record following inspiring performance against Hong Kong in Asia Cup</a>

"And this is not my prediction, I think that it will be hard to continue captaincy for Rohit Sharma. I have always seen him enjoy, but right now he is not expressing himself. He looks lost and he has too much pressure on him. I feel sorry for him,” declared the 41-year-old.

Despite Hafeez's claims and reservations, well-founded or not, India, under the expert leadership of Rohit Sharma, have managed to consolidate their position in the Super Four of the Asia Cup. Sharma could very well shut down his detractors and vindicate himself in Hafeez's eyes if he can take the team all the way to defend their title.&nbsp;

Former Pakistan skipper and one of their most prolific batsmen, Mohammad Hafeez recently offered a scathing review of Rohit Sharma's performance as the captain of team India.

Former Pakistan skipper and one of their most prolific batsmen, Mohammad Hafeez recently offered a scathing review of Rohit Sharma's performance as the captain of team India. In addition to claiming that he looks lost, and weak, Hafeez declared that Sharma currently runs the risk of losing his captaincy. Sharma has led the Men in Blue to two triumphs in their ongoing Asia Cup campaign, with one victory coming against their arch-rivals, Pakistan. However, it seems like Hafeez is far from impressed. In a video that he recently shared on social media, Hafeez was seen flaming Sharma for the way he has gone about performing his duties as skipper. Hafeez, who was analysing his performance in a segment on PTV, declared that captaincy had exacted a heavy toll on Sharma. My opinion on @ImRo45 captaincy in Asia cup #GameOnHai pic.twitter.com/dBzVX2Pgfu — Mohammad Hafeez (@MHafeez22) September 1, 2022 × ALSO READ: Rohit Sharma's India register most T20I wins in a calendar year after going past Hong Kong in Asia Cup 2022 Hafeez broke down Sharma's mannerisms in the aftermath of India's clash against Hong Kong, which they went on to win by a margin of 40-runs. Despite walking away with the win, India were not at their best and matters could have gone down to the wire if it weren't for a scintillating performance from Suryakumar Yadav. "Look at his expression. This is Rohit Sharma’s expression after the game got finished. And they have won by 40 runs. His body language was weak when he came out to toss. I thought he was scared and confused. I can’t see Rohit Sharma whom I know. That Rohit Sharma who has played blinder of knocks,” said Hafeez. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli bags impressive T20I record following inspiring performance against Hong Kong in Asia Cup "And this is not my prediction, I think that it will be hard to continue captaincy for Rohit Sharma. I have always seen him enjoy, but right now he is not expressing himself. He looks lost and he has too much pressure on him. I feel sorry for him,” declared the 41-year-old. Despite Hafeez's claims and reservations, well-founded or not, India, under the expert leadership of Rohit Sharma, have managed to consolidate their position in the Super Four of the Asia Cup. Sharma could very well shut down his detractors and vindicate himself in Hafeez's eyes if he can take the team all the way to defend their title.

Former Pakistan skipper believes Rohit Sharma will lose his captaincy, claims he ‘looks lost’

With his most recent Asia Cup outing, in which he showed glimpses of his old self, Virat Kohli made his way into the T20I record books as he became the player with the highest average in the shortest format of the game.

He managed to accomplish the feat during India's Group A clash against Hong Kong at the Dubai International Stadium. He built an extremely interesting partnership with Suryakumar Yadav, personally putting&nbsp;59* runs on the board off of 44 balls. He stormed to this score, bagging&nbsp;one four and three sixes.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/did-you-think-of-matching-yuvraj-singhs-six-sixes-feat-suryakumar-yadav-gives-epic-reply-to-virat-kohli-512083" hreflang="en">'Did you think of matching Yuvraj Singh's six sixes feat?' Suryakumar Yadav gives epic reply to Virat Kohli</a>

Kohli has scored 3,402 runs in the T20I format at an average of 50.77 over the course of 101 matches, effectively becoming the player with the highest average in this format. He did so by surpassing Pakistan's Mohammad Rizwan, who boasts of an average of 50.14, which he has consolidated across 57 matches.&nbsp;

In addition, Kohli also recently equalled yet another record that is held by his teammate and skipper, Rohit Sharma, for the highest number of 50-plus scores in the T20I format, by upping his tally to&nbsp;31. Of these half centuries, his best score to date has been that of 94*.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharmas-india-register-most-t20i-wins-in-a-calendar-year-after-going-past-hong-kong-in-asia-cup-2022-512106" hreflang="en">Rohit Sharma's India register most T20I wins in a calendar year after going past Hong Kong in Asia Cup 2022</a>

Despite this recent slew of successes on the pitch, Kohli is yet to bring an end to a lengthy century drought that has plagued him for over a thousand days. This drought, in addition to a series of disappointing performances, prompted a clear break from the sport, which came to an end just before the start of the Asia Cup.

Since his return to active contention, Kohli has repeatedly asserted that his vigour and desire to perform well on the pitch have been renewed. While an international ton still eludes him, based on his recent performances, he is certainly well on his way to bagging it sooner rather than later.

With his most recent Asia Cup outing, in which he showed glimpses of his old self, Virat Kohli made his way into the T20I record books as he became the player with the highest average in the shortest format of the game.

With his most recent Asia Cup outing, in which he showed glimpses of his old self, Virat Kohli made his way into the T20I record books as he became the player with the highest average in the shortest format of the game. He managed to accomplish the feat during India's Group A clash against Hong Kong at the Dubai International Stadium. He built an extremely interesting partnership with Suryakumar Yadav, personally putting 59* runs on the board off of 44 balls. He stormed to this score, bagging one four and three sixes. ALSO READ: 'Did you think of matching Yuvraj Singh's six sixes feat?' Suryakumar Yadav gives epic reply to Virat Kohli Kohli has scored 3,402 runs in the T20I format at an average of 50.77 over the course of 101 matches, effectively becoming the player with the highest average in this format. He did so by surpassing Pakistan's Mohammad Rizwan, who boasts of an average of 50.14, which he has consolidated across 57 matches. In addition, Kohli also recently equalled yet another record that is held by his teammate and skipper, Rohit Sharma, for the highest number of 50-plus scores in the T20I format, by upping his tally to 31. Of these half centuries, his best score to date has been that of 94*. ALSO READ: Rohit Sharma's India register most T20I wins in a calendar year after going past Hong Kong in Asia Cup 2022 Despite this recent slew of successes on the pitch, Kohli is yet to bring an end to a lengthy century drought that has plagued him for over a thousand days. This drought, in addition to a series of disappointing performances, prompted a clear break from the sport, which came to an end just before the start of the Asia Cup. Since his return to active contention, Kohli has repeatedly asserted that his vigour and desire to perform well on the pitch have been renewed. While an international ton still eludes him, based on his recent performances, he is certainly well on his way to bagging it sooner rather than later.

Virat Kohli bags impressive T20I record following inspiring performance against Hong Kong in Asia Cup

Rohit Sharma-led India faced Hong Kong in their Asia Cup 2022 match on Wednesday (August 31) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. After a thrilling win over Pakistan, the Men in Blue were looking to cement their spot in the Super Four round with another victory in their kitty. The Rohit Sharma-Rahul Dravid-led Indian team went past the minnows by 40 runs to become the second team, after Afghanistan, to enter the next round in the Asian championship, being held in the UAE.

Being asked to bat first, India rode on Virat Kohli's gritty 59 not out and Suryakumar Yadav's 26-ball 68* to post 192/2 in 20 overs. In reply, Hong Kong lost only five wickets but only managed 152-5 to lose by a convincing margin. With this win, Team India achieved a new feat by registering their 18th win in the format in 2022, most by the one-time winners in a calendar year. Pakistan had attained 17 wins in 2017 and, thus, India have gone past them but the overall list is still led by Babar Azam &amp; Co. In 2021, the Men in Green had bagged 20 wins in the format (most by any team in a calendar year). However, with plenty of T20I action remaining in the year -- with the 2022 T20 World Cup to be held in Australia from October-November -- Rohit &amp; Co. will hope to go past their arch-rivals and top the overall list.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-goes-past-kohli-to-become-indias-second-most-successful-t20i-captain-only-behind-legend-dhoni-512048">Rohit goes past Kohli to become India's second-most successful T20I captain, only behind legend Dhoni</a>

After the win versus Hong Kong, Rohit opined at the post-match presentation, "We batted pretty well to start with, got to a very good score. Came out and bowled reasonably well, we could have done slightly better with the ball. (SKY) The kind of innings he played today, the words will be short. We have seen that with him every now and then. He comes up with such kinds of knocks. He just comes out and bats fearlessly which is what the team expects from him. Some of the shots he played today, those are not written anywhere in the book. It was very pleasing to watch. Shot selection was also crucial. We know he can play all around the park. We have also informed the group about this (flexibility in the batting order) as well. Most of the guys are ready to take the opportunity and be ready to bat wherever required. That's the flexibility we need. We'll take those chances. We are going to try and use the right match-ups."

India will now gear upto face the winner of the Pakistan-Hong Kong clash in their first game in the Super Four round at Asia Cup 2022. The match will be held at the same venue on Sunday evening (September 04). Given India's red-hot form, they can even the 22-win mark by the end of the Asia Cup. Will they be able to achieve it? Only time will tell...

Rohit Sharma-led India faced Hong Kong in their Asia Cup 2022 match on Wednesday (August 31) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. After a thrilling win over Pakistan, the Men in Blue were looking to cement their spot in the Super Four round with another victory in their kitty.

Rohit Sharma-led India faced Hong Kong in their Asia Cup 2022 match on Wednesday (August 31) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. After a thrilling win over Pakistan, the Men in Blue were looking to cement their spot in the Super Four round with another victory in their kitty. The Rohit Sharma-Rahul Dravid-led Indian team went past the minnows by 40 runs to become the second team, after Afghanistan, to enter the next round in the Asian championship, being held in the UAE. Being asked to bat first, India rode on Virat Kohli's gritty 59 not out and Suryakumar Yadav's 26-ball 68* to post 192/2 in 20 overs. In reply, Hong Kong lost only five wickets but only managed 152-5 to lose by a convincing margin. With this win, Team India achieved a new feat by registering their 18th win in the format in 2022, most by the one-time winners in a calendar year. Pakistan had attained 17 wins in 2017 and, thus, India have gone past them but the overall list is still led by Babar Azam & Co. In 2021, the Men in Green had bagged 20 wins in the format (most by any team in a calendar year). However, with plenty of T20I action remaining in the year -- with the 2022 T20 World Cup to be held in Australia from October-November -- Rohit & Co. will hope to go past their arch-rivals and top the overall list. ALSO READ | Rohit goes past Kohli to become India's second-most successful T20I captain, only behind legend Dhoni After the win versus Hong Kong, Rohit opined at the post-match presentation, "We batted pretty well to start with, got to a very good score. Came out and bowled reasonably well, we could have done slightly better with the ball. (SKY) The kind of innings he played today, the words will be short. We have seen that with him every now and then. He comes up with such kinds of knocks. He just comes out and bats fearlessly which is what the team expects from him. Some of the shots he played today, those are not written anywhere in the book. It was very pleasing to watch. Shot selection was also crucial. We know he can play all around the park. We have also informed the group about this (flexibility in the batting order) as well. Most of the guys are ready to take the opportunity and be ready to bat wherever required. That's the flexibility we need. We'll take those chances. We are going to try and use the right match-ups." India will now gear upto face the winner of the Pakistan-Hong Kong clash in their first game in the Super Four round at Asia Cup 2022. The match will be held at the same venue on Sunday evening (September 04). Given India's red-hot form, they can even the 22-win mark by the end of the Asia Cup. Will they be able to achieve it? Only time will tell...

Rohit Sharma's India register most T20I wins in a calendar year after going past Hong Kong in Asia Cup 2022

The Pakistan Cricket Board recently found itself at the receiving end of a significant amount of hate and flak from former all-rounder Mohammad Hafeez. He slammed the national board for the time that they took to effectively deal with ace pacer Shaheen Afridi's injury.

The Shaheens' bowling order was recently dealt an extremely tough blow after their star bowler was ruled out of active contention due to a knee injury that he sustained while fielding back in July during&nbsp;the first Test against Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/babar-azam-reveals-pakistans-gameplan-to-outclass-india-hails-new-comer-naseem-shah-for-performance-511826" hreflang="en">Babar Azam reveals Pakistan's gameplan to outclass India, hails new-comer Naseem Shah for performance</a>

A lot has been said of Afridi, who has since been shackled to the sidelines, and the rate of his recovery. Owing to the fateful injury, Afridi was forced to miss out on the second Test against Sri Lanka, the subsequent series against the Netherlands, and the ongoing Asia Cup tournament. On Monday, the board revealed that Shaheen was London-bound to receive further medical attention to fast-track his road to recovery.&nbsp;

Discussing Afridi's recovery in a video that he recently shared on social media, Hafeez was seen slamming the board for failing to seek the appropriate medical intervention and rehabilitation at the moment the extent of his injury was revealed.

"The things that I read and heard over the last few days, there was an official post. So this time period of 4 weeks or 6 weeks or 8 weeks - since the time he got injured, I think wasting this time is a criminal act," he asserted.

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My views on <a href="https://twitter.com/iShaheenAfridi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@iShaheenAfridi</a> injury. May he get well soon 🤲🏼 <a href="https://t.co/HR18kuN8f9">pic.twitter.com/HR18kuN8f9</a>
— Mohammad Hafeez (@MHafeez22) <a href="https://twitter.com/MHafeez22/status/1564634875675680769?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 30, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-panel-level-fine-on-india-and-pakistan-for-slow-over-rate-in-asia-cup-encounter-511815" hreflang="en">ICC panel level fines on India and Pakistan for slow over-rate in Asia Cup encounter</a>

"A product like Shaheen, who is not just Pakistan's but the world's, and we have more such cricketers who have a fan following across the world, we need to look after them properly. This is why I feel they have now understood that and sent him to England.

"I feel they should have taken this decision when he got injured in the first place. They should have settled their findings straight away and should have sent him for the best rehab to England or wherever else," Hafeez continued.

The Pakistan Cricket Board recently found itself at the receiving end of a significant amount of hate and flak from former all-rounder Mohammad Hafeez. He slammed the national board for the time that they took to effectively deal with ace pacer Shaheen Afridi's injury.

The Pakistan Cricket Board recently found itself at the receiving end of a significant amount of hate and flak from former all-rounder Mohammad Hafeez. He slammed the national board for the time that they took to effectively deal with ace pacer Shaheen Afridi's injury. The Shaheens' bowling order was recently dealt an extremely tough blow after their star bowler was ruled out of active contention due to a knee injury that he sustained while fielding back in July during the first Test against Sri Lanka. ALSO READ: Babar Azam reveals Pakistan's gameplan to outclass India, hails new-comer Naseem Shah for performance A lot has been said of Afridi, who has since been shackled to the sidelines, and the rate of his recovery. Owing to the fateful injury, Afridi was forced to miss out on the second Test against Sri Lanka, the subsequent series against the Netherlands, and the ongoing Asia Cup tournament. On Monday, the board revealed that Shaheen was London-bound to receive further medical attention to fast-track his road to recovery. Discussing Afridi's recovery in a video that he recently shared on social media, Hafeez was seen slamming the board for failing to seek the appropriate medical intervention and rehabilitation at the moment the extent of his injury was revealed. "The things that I read and heard over the last few days, there was an official post. So this time period of 4 weeks or 6 weeks or 8 weeks - since the time he got injured, I think wasting this time is a criminal act," he asserted. My views on @iShaheenAfridi injury. May he get well soon 🤲🏼 pic.twitter.com/HR18kuN8f9 — Mohammad Hafeez (@MHafeez22) August 30, 2022 × ALSO READ: ICC panel level fines on India and Pakistan for slow over-rate in Asia Cup encounter "A product like Shaheen, who is not just Pakistan's but the world's, and we have more such cricketers who have a fan following across the world, we need to look after them properly. This is why I feel they have now understood that and sent him to England. "I feel they should have taken this decision when he got injured in the first place. They should have settled their findings straight away and should have sent him for the best rehab to England or wherever else," Hafeez continued.

Former Pakistan cricketer nukes PCB for how they handled Shaheen Afridi's injury

Geographical neighbors and arch-nemeses India and Pakistan recently locked horns under the promotional banner of the Asia Cup tournament. Although a cricket match between the two cricketing giants, who happen to be fierce rivals,&nbsp;is considered to be a high-octane affair and one of the most exciting international clashes, their recent efforts were not enough to shield them from the wrath of the administrators.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-kapil-dev-explains-why-virat-kohli-is-a-bigger-player-than-anyone-else-in-last-10-years-511754" hreflang="en">Asia Cup: Kapil Dev explains why Virat Kohli is 'a bigger player than anyone else in last 10 years'</a>

Both teams were fined 40% of their match fees for maintaining a&nbsp;slow over-rate during their Group A clash on Sunday.&nbsp;Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees' Jeff Crowe moved to levy the fine after it was ascertained that the two teams had fallen short of their&nbsp;respective targets by a matter of two overs even after time allowances were considered.&nbsp;

Per Article 2.22 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel,&nbsp;minimum over-rate offenses require players to be fined 20% of their match fees for every over that they fail to bowl in the allotted time.

Although it amounts to a significant amount of money, neither captain argued their innocence, choosing to plead guilty instead. Thereby dismissing the need for a formal hearing. The charges were leveled&nbsp;upon the Men in Blue and the Men in Green by on-field umpires&nbsp;Ruchira Pilliyaguruge and&nbsp;Masudur Rahman,&nbsp;&nbsp;third umpire Raveendra Wimalasiri and fourth umpire Gazi Sohel.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-pacer-ashish-nehra-opines-on-hardik-pandya-explains-reason-behind-team-india-stars-success-511779" hreflang="en">Former pacer Ashish Nehra opines on Hardik Pandya, explains reason behind Team India star's success</a>

India managed to overcome the challenge presented by The Shaheens, walking away with a five-wicket win with merely two balls remaining. Hardik Pandya managed to lay claim to the mantle of 'Man of the Match' with his absolutely stunning performance. The Rohit Sharma-led outfit is currently hurtling towards a clash against Hong Kong, which they are touted to win with relative ease. The action is set to unfold at the Dubai International Stadium.

Geographical neighbors and arch-nemeses India and Pakistan recently locked horns under the promotional banner of the Asia Cup tournament. Although a cricket match between the two cricketing giants, who happen to be fierce rivals, is considered to be a high-octane affair and one of the most exciting international clashes, their recent efforts were not enough to shield them from the wrath of the administrators.

Geographical neighbors and arch-nemeses India and Pakistan recently locked horns under the promotional banner of the Asia Cup tournament. Although a cricket match between the two cricketing giants, who happen to be fierce rivals, is considered to be a high-octane affair and one of the most exciting international clashes, their recent efforts were not enough to shield them from the wrath of the administrators. ALSO READ: Asia Cup: Kapil Dev explains why Virat Kohli is 'a bigger player than anyone else in last 10 years' Both teams were fined 40% of their match fees for maintaining a slow over-rate during their Group A clash on Sunday. Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees' Jeff Crowe moved to levy the fine after it was ascertained that the two teams had fallen short of their respective targets by a matter of two overs even after time allowances were considered. Per Article 2.22 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, minimum over-rate offenses require players to be fined 20% of their match fees for every over that they fail to bowl in the allotted time. Although it amounts to a significant amount of money, neither captain argued their innocence, choosing to plead guilty instead. Thereby dismissing the need for a formal hearing. The charges were leveled upon the Men in Blue and the Men in Green by on-field umpires Ruchira Pilliyaguruge and Masudur Rahman, third umpire Raveendra Wimalasiri and fourth umpire Gazi Sohel. ALSO READ: Former pacer Ashish Nehra opines on Hardik Pandya, explains reason behind Team India star's success India managed to overcome the challenge presented by The Shaheens, walking away with a five-wicket win with merely two balls remaining. Hardik Pandya managed to lay claim to the mantle of 'Man of the Match' with his absolutely stunning performance. The Rohit Sharma-led outfit is currently hurtling towards a clash against Hong Kong, which they are touted to win with relative ease. The action is set to unfold at the Dubai International Stadium.

ICC panel level fines on India and Pakistan for slow over-rate in Asia Cup encounter

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The rivalry between Asian giants India and Pakistan transcends geographical borders. Cricket matches played between the two countries are some of the most high-octane affairs in international cricket.

Although the two countries often lock horns with each other in international tournaments like the ICC World Cup and the Asia Cup, it has been quite some time since they have competed with each other in bilateral series, owing to the tensions that exist between the neighbouring countries.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-pak-asia-cup-virat-kohli-becomes-first-indian-cricketer-to-breach-triple-figure-mark-in-all-formats-510910" hreflang="en">India vs Pakistan: Virat Kohli becomes first Indian cricketer to play 100 matches in all three formats</a>

However, former Pakistan international Waqar Younis recently urged the countries to consider hosting bilateral series with each other owing to the hype that surrounds their matches. He offered fans some insight into the same while in conversation with the media.

"I am not saying that India and Pakistan should keep playing each other, that will end the charm of the rivalry. But the two teams must play bilateral."

He drew parallels between the Ashes and the matches played between India and Pakistan, admitting that the latter pipped the former when it came to the quality and marketability of the kind of cricket being played.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-pakistan-live-cricket-score-asia-cup-2022-rohit-sharma-babar-azam-virat-kohli-dubai-510908" hreflang="en">India vs Pakistan, Asia Cup 2022 LIVE updates: Rizwan in focus after two quick strikes from India</a>

"I don't think that Ashes is the biggest rivalry on the planet. I don't think that the series in England are the top of the file. When India and Pakistan play, there is no better cricket than that. So I feel that once in a year or two years the two teams should play bilateral series," said Younis.

Fortunately for Younis, India and Pakistan will be butting heads with each other on numerous occasions over the course of 2022, owing to the schedules of international tournaments. However, the probability of the two countries engaging in bilateral series remains slim at this point in time.

The rivalry between Asian giants India and Pakistan transcends geographical borders. Cricket matches played between the two countries are some of the most high-octane affairs in international cricket.

The rivalry between Asian giants India and Pakistan transcends geographical borders. Cricket matches played between the two countries are some of the most high-octane affairs in international cricket. Although the two countries often lock horns with each other in international tournaments like the ICC World Cup and the Asia Cup, it has been quite some time since they have competed with each other in bilateral series, owing to the tensions that exist between the neighbouring countries. ALSO READ: India vs Pakistan: Virat Kohli becomes first Indian cricketer to play 100 matches in all three formats However, former Pakistan international Waqar Younis recently urged the countries to consider hosting bilateral series with each other owing to the hype that surrounds their matches. He offered fans some insight into the same while in conversation with the media. "I am not saying that India and Pakistan should keep playing each other, that will end the charm of the rivalry. But the two teams must play bilateral." He drew parallels between the Ashes and the matches played between India and Pakistan, admitting that the latter pipped the former when it came to the quality and marketability of the kind of cricket being played. ALSO READ: India vs Pakistan, Asia Cup 2022 LIVE updates: Rizwan in focus after two quick strikes from India "I don't think that Ashes is the biggest rivalry on the planet. I don't think that the series in England are the top of the file. When India and Pakistan play, there is no better cricket than that. So I feel that once in a year or two years the two teams should play bilateral series," said Younis. Fortunately for Younis, India and Pakistan will be butting heads with each other on numerous occasions over the course of 2022, owing to the schedules of international tournaments. However, the probability of the two countries engaging in bilateral series remains slim at this point in time.

'There is no better cricket'- Waqar Younis calls for annual or biannual bilaterals between India and Pakistan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Arch-nemeses India and Pakistan currently find themselves on a collision course, hurtling towards a match that will effectively&nbsp;kick off their&nbsp;Asia Cup campaign on Sunday in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.&nbsp;

Ahead of their highly anticipated clash, the Indian team's skipper Rohit Sharma addressed the media to offer fans some insight into the team's mindset, their plan of action and the physical and mental status of the players on the team.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-enjoys-candid-interaction-with-babar-azam-ahead-of-highly-anticipated-asia-cup-clash-510735" hreflang="en">Rohit Sharma enjoys candid interaction with Babar Azam ahead of highly anticipated Asia Cup clash</a>

While discussing the same, he was asked about India's most recent match against their arch-rivals, which took place back in 2021 at the same venue where&nbsp;they are currently slated to compete in.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Virat Kohli-led outfit was thoroughly outperformed by The Shaheens by 10 wickets in their ICC T20 World Cup clash. The loss marked India's first loss at the hands of Pakistan in a World Cup setting.

However, Sharma admitted that although the loss did affect team morale initially, they had learnt from the loss. Highlighting the importance of moving past the loss, he asserted that the Men in Blue are&nbsp;all set to avenge their fateful loss.

"Yes, that loss did hurt us but some time has passed since that game was played. So, for us, we have got another challenge in front of us now. There is no point thinking about that loss now.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/disney-hotstar-confirmed-as-the-home-for-icc-cricket-as-the-platform-bags-a-long-term-deal-for-media-rights-510741" hreflang="en">Disney Hotstar confirmed as the home for ICC cricket as the platform bags a long-term deal for media rights</a>

"Since then, we have played a lot of games and we have tried to correct our mistakes. You learn from mistakes, it is a fresh start for us.

"The team is coming out of playing a lot of T20 cricket, and we know now to win games. Opposition will challenge you, but you need to find ways to counter that. The losses obviously hurt, but we have moved on from that loss."

&nbsp;

Arch-nemeses India and Pakistan currently find themselves on a collision course, hurtling towards a match that will effectively kick off their Asia Cup campaign on Sunday in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

Arch-nemeses India and Pakistan currently find themselves on a collision course, hurtling towards a match that will effectively kick off their Asia Cup campaign on Sunday in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Ahead of their highly anticipated clash, the Indian team's skipper Rohit Sharma addressed the media to offer fans some insight into the team's mindset, their plan of action and the physical and mental status of the players on the team. ALSO READ: Rohit Sharma enjoys candid interaction with Babar Azam ahead of highly anticipated Asia Cup clash While discussing the same, he was asked about India's most recent match against their arch-rivals, which took place back in 2021 at the same venue where they are currently slated to compete in. The Virat Kohli-led outfit was thoroughly outperformed by The Shaheens by 10 wickets in their ICC T20 World Cup clash. The loss marked India's first loss at the hands of Pakistan in a World Cup setting. However, Sharma admitted that although the loss did affect team morale initially, they had learnt from the loss. Highlighting the importance of moving past the loss, he asserted that the Men in Blue are all set to avenge their fateful loss. "Yes, that loss did hurt us but some time has passed since that game was played. So, for us, we have got another challenge in front of us now. There is no point thinking about that loss now. ALSO READ: Disney Hotstar confirmed as the home for ICC cricket as the platform bags a long-term deal for media rights "Since then, we have played a lot of games and we have tried to correct our mistakes. You learn from mistakes, it is a fresh start for us. "The team is coming out of playing a lot of T20 cricket, and we know now to win games. Opposition will challenge you, but you need to find ways to counter that. The losses obviously hurt, but we have moved on from that loss."

‘You learn from mistakes’- Rohit Sharma on how T20 World Cup loss to Pakistan affected India's Asia Cup prep

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

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

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

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