India and Pakistan locked horns with each other on Sunday (August 28) in their respective opening games in the Asia Cup 2022 edition, played at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. Both the senior men's team met after their 2021 T20 World Cup clash, also held at the same venue, where Babar Azam &amp; Co. thrashed India by ten wickets to achieve their first-ever World Cup win versus their arch-rivals.

In the recently-held encounter, Rohit Sharma-led India won the toss and opted to bowl first. Riding on Bhuvneshwar Kumar's 4 for 26 and Hardik Pandya's 3-25, India dismissed Pakistan for a modest 147 in 19.5 overs. This became the first instance of the Indian seamers picking up all ten wickets in a T20I. In reply, India had lost KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli early in the run-chase and were tottering at 89-4 before Hardik Pandya's 17-ball 33 not out and Ravindra Jadeja's 29-ball 35 propelled the Men in Blue to a thrilling five-wicket win in the last over.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-gifts-signed-jersey-to-pakistan-pacer-wins-hearts-with-his-heartwarming-gesture-watch-511263">Virat Kohli gifts signed jersey to Pakistan pacer, wins hearts with his heartwarming gesture - WATCH</a>

The cricket fans are, however, in for a treat as India and Pakistan are very likely to meet each other as many as two more times in the ongoing Asian championship, in the UAE.&nbsp;

Here's how India-Pakistan can once again meet in the Super Four round

Given the format of the Asia Cup -- being held in the shortest format for only the second time in the tournament history --&nbsp;the six teams are divided into two groups of three. The top two teams from each group will make it to the Super Four round, where all sides will play each other once. If India and Pakistan end as the top two sides -- with both the Asian giants expected to romp past minnows Hong Kong in Group A -- it can see the two heavyweights battle it out once again on September 4 (Sunday) when A1 vs A2 clash will take place in the next round.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-afghanistan-fan-goes-bonkers-kisses-hardik-pandya-on-tv-after-indias-asia-cup-win-vs-pakistan-511166">WATCH: Afghanistan fan goes bonkers, kisses Hardik Pandya on TV after India's Asia Cup win vs Pakistan</a>

Who qualifies for the final?

The top-two sides in the Super 4 round will meet each other in the final, to be held on September 11. Given India and Pakistan are the two strongest sides in the tournament, they can lock horns in the summit clash as well. It is to be noted that there has never been an Indo-Pak finale in the Asia Cup history. However, this might be the edition that can see the two teams clash in the final.&nbsp;

India and Pakistan locked horns with each other on Sunday (August 28) in their respective opening games in the Asia Cup 2022 edition, played at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai.

India and Pakistan locked horns with each other on Sunday (August 28) in their respective opening games in the Asia Cup 2022 edition, played at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. Both the senior men's team met after their 2021 T20 World Cup clash, also held at the same venue, where Babar Azam & Co. thrashed India by ten wickets to achieve their first-ever World Cup win versus their arch-rivals. In the recently-held encounter, Rohit Sharma-led India won the toss and opted to bowl first. Riding on Bhuvneshwar Kumar's 4 for 26 and Hardik Pandya's 3-25, India dismissed Pakistan for a modest 147 in 19.5 overs. This became the first instance of the Indian seamers picking up all ten wickets in a T20I. In reply, India had lost KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli early in the run-chase and were tottering at 89-4 before Hardik Pandya's 17-ball 33 not out and Ravindra Jadeja's 29-ball 35 propelled the Men in Blue to a thrilling five-wicket win in the last over. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli gifts signed jersey to Pakistan pacer, wins hearts with his heartwarming gesture - WATCH The cricket fans are, however, in for a treat as India and Pakistan are very likely to meet each other as many as two more times in the ongoing Asian championship, in the UAE. Here's how India-Pakistan can once again meet in the Super Four round Given the format of the Asia Cup -- being held in the shortest format for only the second time in the tournament history -- the six teams are divided into two groups of three. The top two teams from each group will make it to the Super Four round, where all sides will play each other once. If India and Pakistan end as the top two sides -- with both the Asian giants expected to romp past minnows Hong Kong in Group A -- it can see the two heavyweights battle it out once again on September 4 (Sunday) when A1 vs A2 clash will take place in the next round. ALSO READ | WATCH: Afghanistan fan goes bonkers, kisses Hardik Pandya on TV after India's Asia Cup win vs Pakistan Who qualifies for the final? The top-two sides in the Super 4 round will meet each other in the final, to be held on September 11. Given India and Pakistan are the two strongest sides in the tournament, they can lock horns in the summit clash as well. It is to be noted that there has never been an Indo-Pak finale in the Asia Cup history. However, this might be the edition that can see the two teams clash in the final.

Explained: How India-Pakistan can square off again in Super 4 round at Asia Cup

Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar was not impressed by captain Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli's performance against Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2022 clash against Pakistan on Sunday. While India defeated Pakistan by five wickets in the game to get off to a winning start, India's top order failed to deliver once again.

KL Rahul was sent packing on a duck in the very first over by young Pakistan pacer Naseem Shah before Rohit Sharma (12) and Virat Kohli (35) added 49 runs for the second wicket. However, the duo looked far from their best. While Rohit was struggling to middle the ball properly, Kohli did play a few dazzling strokes but was rode on luck on a few occasions.

Former India captain Gavaskar said he had always felt luck was not favouring Kohli when he was struggling to score runs in the last few months, however, luck was on his side against Pakistan on Sunday. Kohli did manage to get off to a good start and was settled in the middle but threw away his wicket after poor shot selection against spinner Mohammad Nawaz.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/naseem-shah-cries-while-walking-back-to-dressing-room-after-battling-painful-cramps-against-india-watch-511480">Naseem Shah cries while walking back to dressing room after battling painful cramps against India - WATCH</a>

While it was a half-hearted stroke, many felt there was no need for Kohli to go for a big shot immediately after Rohit's dismissal. Gavaskar said both Rohit and Kohli got out to forgettable shots and should have tried to stay longer on the crease and play big knocks as the required rate was not much.

"Today, he had a lot of luck, drop catches, a lot of inside edges, which went so close to the stumps, he had the luck. But he did capitalise on it and played some very fine shots," Gavaskar was quoted as saying by India Today.

"But one had expected that with the kind of start that he had, he should have got around 60-70. He got out immediately after Rohit got out. Both of them got out to forgettable shots. At that stage, those shots were not necessary as the asking rate wasn't 19 or 20 for them to attempt sixes at that stage.

"It was required for them to get going, get to 70-80 and then maybe go for the big shots. That should be learning from this game," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sanjay-manjrekar-lauds-unreal-hardik-pandya-after-his-all-round-blitz-vs-pakistan-in-asia-cup-511432">Sanjay Manjrekar lauds 'unreal' Hardik Pandya after his all-round blitz vs Pakistan in Asia Cup</a>

India's top three wree back in the hut inside 53 runs in the 10th over as the Men in Bluefound themeselves in a triky spot in the run-chase. However, Hardik Pandya combined with Ravidra Jadeja to steer India through and secure a thrilling five-wicket win for the team in the final over.

While Hardik scored an unbeaten 33 off 17 balls, Jadeja scored 35 off 29 bals. The duo shared a 52-run stand for the 5th wicket before Jadeja was dismissed on the first ball of the fina over. However, Hardik showed nerves of steel as he finished off the run-chase in style with a six.

Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar was not impressed by captain Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli's performance against Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2022 clash against Pakistan on Sunday.

Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar was not impressed by captain Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli's performance against Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2022 clash against Pakistan on Sunday. While India defeated Pakistan by five wickets in the game to get off to a winning start, India's top order failed to deliver once again. KL Rahul was sent packing on a duck in the very first over by young Pakistan pacer Naseem Shah before Rohit Sharma (12) and Virat Kohli (35) added 49 runs for the second wicket. However, the duo looked far from their best. While Rohit was struggling to middle the ball properly, Kohli did play a few dazzling strokes but was rode on luck on a few occasions. Former India captain Gavaskar said he had always felt luck was not favouring Kohli when he was struggling to score runs in the last few months, however, luck was on his side against Pakistan on Sunday. Kohli did manage to get off to a good start and was settled in the middle but threw away his wicket after poor shot selection against spinner Mohammad Nawaz. Also Read: Naseem Shah cries while walking back to dressing room after battling painful cramps against India - WATCH While it was a half-hearted stroke, many felt there was no need for Kohli to go for a big shot immediately after Rohit's dismissal. Gavaskar said both Rohit and Kohli got out to forgettable shots and should have tried to stay longer on the crease and play big knocks as the required rate was not much. "Today, he had a lot of luck, drop catches, a lot of inside edges, which went so close to the stumps, he had the luck. But he did capitalise on it and played some very fine shots," Gavaskar was quoted as saying by India Today. "But one had expected that with the kind of start that he had, he should have got around 60-70. He got out immediately after Rohit got out. Both of them got out to forgettable shots. At that stage, those shots were not necessary as the asking rate wasn't 19 or 20 for them to attempt sixes at that stage. "It was required for them to get going, get to 70-80 and then maybe go for the big shots. That should be learning from this game," he added. Also Read: Sanjay Manjrekar lauds 'unreal' Hardik Pandya after his all-round blitz vs Pakistan in Asia Cup India's top three wree back in the hut inside 53 runs in the 10th over as the Men in Bluefound themeselves in a triky spot in the run-chase. However, Hardik Pandya combined with Ravidra Jadeja to steer India through and secure a thrilling five-wicket win for the team in the final over. While Hardik scored an unbeaten 33 off 17 balls, Jadeja scored 35 off 29 bals. The duo shared a 52-run stand for the 5th wicket before Jadeja was dismissed on the first ball of the fina over. However, Hardik showed nerves of steel as he finished off the run-chase in style with a six.

'Those shots were not necessary': Sunil Gavaskar criticises Kohli, Rohit's performance against Pakistan

Hardik Pandya's all-round blitz took India past the finish line in a riveting clash against Pakistan in the Asia Cup on Sunday (August 28) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. Opting to bowl first, Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue dismissed Babar Azam's Pakistan for 147 in 19.5 overs with Bhuvneshwar Kumar returning with 4 for 26 along with Hardik's 3 for 25.

In reply, India were in a spot of bother at 89-4 in 14.2 overs, in pursuit of 148, when Hardik joined Ravindra Jadeja in the middle. While Jadeja contributed with a handy 29-ball 35, Hardik led the charge from his end, remained calm and composed as ever and took India to the target with a six, over long-on, in the final over. He remained unbeaten on 33, off 17 deliveries, to return with the Player-of-the-Match award. After the encounter, Hardik's consistency in all departments and his self-belief is being praised by many in the cricketing fraternity.

Sharing his views on the&nbsp;Sports 18&nbsp;show&nbsp;Sports Over the Top, former Indian batter-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar joined the bandwagon and lauded Pandya's ability to remain calm in difficult situations. "Just this calmness. Everything about him is currently unreal. His bowling returns are unreal, which is something that you get with others as well, but his ability to keep calm and get runs under pressure," Manjrekar said.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/explained-how-india-pakistan-can-square-off-again-in-super-4-round-at-asia-cup-511386">Explained: How India-Pakistan can square off again in Super 4 round at Asia Cup</a>

"That last over was a tricky one because Hardik was in there and played the faster bowlers mostly, so there was a rhythm of hitting against the quicker bowlers and suddenly the situation was such that Pakistan had to bring in the left-arm spinner. Jadeja got out to the first ball and then he had four balls to get those runs. The pressure is immense but the kind of shots also that he played to get those winning runs under pressure is just outstanding," Manjrekar added.

Hardik credited former captain MS Dhoni for his calmness in crunch situations while speaking to the broadcasters after the epic match between India and Pakistan.&nbsp;"I try to keep things simple as much as I can. Obviously, I have learnt this from Mahi bhai (MS Dhoni) while playing with him. I learn from all the cricketers I play with. I believe that if you want to take any decision in life if you are calm it will help you take better decision. I apply the same during batting and keep my options ready," Pandya told&nbsp;Star Sports.

"In a chase like this, you always plan over-by-over. I always knew that there is one young bowler and also one left-arm spinner. We only needed 7 off the last over but even if we needed 15, I'd have fancied myself. I know the bowler is under more pressure than me in the 20th over. I try to keep things simple," the 28-year-old added.&nbsp;

He will now shift his focus to India's next match where Rohit &amp; Co. will face Hong Kong at the same venue on Wednesday evening (August 31).

Hardik Pandya's all-round blitz took India past the finish line in a riveting clash against Pakistan in the Asia Cup on Sunday (August 28) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai.

Hardik Pandya's all-round blitz took India past the finish line in a riveting clash against Pakistan in the Asia Cup on Sunday (August 28) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. Opting to bowl first, Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue dismissed Babar Azam's Pakistan for 147 in 19.5 overs with Bhuvneshwar Kumar returning with 4 for 26 along with Hardik's 3 for 25. In reply, India were in a spot of bother at 89-4 in 14.2 overs, in pursuit of 148, when Hardik joined Ravindra Jadeja in the middle. While Jadeja contributed with a handy 29-ball 35, Hardik led the charge from his end, remained calm and composed as ever and took India to the target with a six, over long-on, in the final over. He remained unbeaten on 33, off 17 deliveries, to return with the Player-of-the-Match award. After the encounter, Hardik's consistency in all departments and his self-belief is being praised by many in the cricketing fraternity. Sharing his views on the Sports 18 show Sports Over the Top, former Indian batter-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar joined the bandwagon and lauded Pandya's ability to remain calm in difficult situations. "Just this calmness. Everything about him is currently unreal. His bowling returns are unreal, which is something that you get with others as well, but his ability to keep calm and get runs under pressure," Manjrekar said. ALSO READ | Explained: How India-Pakistan can square off again in Super 4 round at Asia Cup "That last over was a tricky one because Hardik was in there and played the faster bowlers mostly, so there was a rhythm of hitting against the quicker bowlers and suddenly the situation was such that Pakistan had to bring in the left-arm spinner. Jadeja got out to the first ball and then he had four balls to get those runs. The pressure is immense but the kind of shots also that he played to get those winning runs under pressure is just outstanding," Manjrekar added. Hardik credited former captain MS Dhoni for his calmness in crunch situations while speaking to the broadcasters after the epic match between India and Pakistan. "I try to keep things simple as much as I can. Obviously, I have learnt this from Mahi bhai (MS Dhoni) while playing with him. I learn from all the cricketers I play with. I believe that if you want to take any decision in life if you are calm it will help you take better decision. I apply the same during batting and keep my options ready," Pandya told Star Sports. "In a chase like this, you always plan over-by-over. I always knew that there is one young bowler and also one left-arm spinner. We only needed 7 off the last over but even if we needed 15, I'd have fancied myself. I know the bowler is under more pressure than me in the 20th over. I try to keep things simple," the 28-year-old added. He will now shift his focus to India's next match where Rohit & Co. will face Hong Kong at the same venue on Wednesday evening (August 31).

Sanjay Manjrekar lauds 'unreal' Hardik Pandya after his all-round blitz vs Pakistan in Asia Cup

Hardik Pandya was the game-changer for India as he produced an exceptional all-round performance to propel Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. to a thrilling 5-wicket win against arch-rivals Pakistan in their Asia Cup 2022 opener at the Dubai International Stadium&nbsp;on Sunday. Hardik picked up a three-wicket haul before playing a match-winning knock of unbeaten 33 to take India home in a pressure run-chase.

After captain Rohit Sharma's decision to bowl first in the high-pressure clash, Indian bowlers made excellent use of the conditions and utilised the short ball well against the Pakistani batters to trouble them throughout their innings. Bhuvneshwar Kumar was the pick of the bowlers for India with a four-wicket haul&nbsp;while Hardik scalped three as Pakistan were skittled out for a paltry 147 in 20 overs.

It was expected to be a tough chase for the Men in Blue, considering the bounce on offer for the pacers and it did turn out to be a tricky one at the end. India once again got off to a shaky start as Naseem Shah sent opener KL Rahul packing on a duck in the very first over before Rohit&nbsp;and Virat Kohli&nbsp;added 50 runs for the 2nd wicket.

The duo steadied the ship for the team but were dismissed in quick succession. While Rohit struggled for his 12 off 18 balls, Kohli played some fine strokes&nbsp;en route to 35 off 34 balls but once again failed to convert his start&nbsp;into a big score.

After the duo's departure, Ravindra Jadeja, who surprisingly came out to bat at no.4, added 36 runs for the fourth wicket with Surykaumar Yadav. Suryakumar was cleaned up by&nbsp;Shah after a run-a-ball 18 paving the way for Hardik's arrival as the all-rounder joined&nbsp;forces with Jadeja in the middle and took India closer to the finishing line.

Also Read:<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"> Virat Kohli becomes first Indian cricketer to play 100 matches in all three formats</a>

With 21 runs required off the final 12 deliveries in India's&nbsp;148-run chase, Hardik slammed three boundaries off four balls in the penultimate over from fast bowler Haris Rauf to bring the equation in India's favour before finishing things off in style in the final over.

Jadeja was dismissed on the very first delivery of the final over leaving India in a tricky spot despite just 7 runs needed as Dinesh Karthik arrived in the middle. However, Hardik looked unfazed by Jadeja's untimely dismissal and showed no signs of pressure even after playing a dot ball on the third delivery to leave six&nbsp;runs to get off the last three balls.

The star all-rounder smacked a huge six in a nonchalant manner&nbsp;on the 4th delivery to take India home without breaking a sweat. It was a stunning all-round performance from Hardik as he followed up his three-wicket haul with a match-winning 33 to be named the Man of the Match in the marquee clash.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/there-is-no-better-cricket-waqar-younis-calls-for-annual-or-biannual-bilaterals-between-india-and-pakistan-510922">'There is no better cricket'- Waqar Younis calls for annual or biannual bilaterals between India and Pakistan</a>

India recorded their biggest run-chase against Pakistan in a T20I game after nailing down the target of 148 runs in Dubai on Sunday as they got off to a winning start in Asia Cup 2022. Courtesy of Pandya's heroics,&nbsp;Men in Blue also managed to avenge their ten-wicket defeat against Babar Azam &amp; Co. in the T20 World Cup last year.

Hardik Pandya was the game-changer for India as he produced an exceptional all-round performance to propel Rohit Sharma & Co. to a thrilling 5-wicket win against arch-rivals Pakistan in their Asia Cup 2022 opener at the Dubai International Stadium on Sunday.

Hardik Pandya was the game-changer for India as he produced an exceptional all-round performance to propel Rohit Sharma & Co. to a thrilling 5-wicket win against arch-rivals Pakistan in their Asia Cup 2022 opener at the Dubai International Stadium on Sunday. Hardik picked up a three-wicket haul before playing a match-winning knock of unbeaten 33 to take India home in a pressure run-chase. After captain Rohit Sharma's decision to bowl first in the high-pressure clash, Indian bowlers made excellent use of the conditions and utilised the short ball well against the Pakistani batters to trouble them throughout their innings. Bhuvneshwar Kumar was the pick of the bowlers for India with a four-wicket haul while Hardik scalped three as Pakistan were skittled out for a paltry 147 in 20 overs. It was expected to be a tough chase for the Men in Blue, considering the bounce on offer for the pacers and it did turn out to be a tricky one at the end. India once again got off to a shaky start as Naseem Shah sent opener KL Rahul packing on a duck in the very first over before Rohit and Virat Kohli added 50 runs for the 2nd wicket. The duo steadied the ship for the team but were dismissed in quick succession. While Rohit struggled for his 12 off 18 balls, Kohli played some fine strokes en route to 35 off 34 balls but once again failed to convert his start into a big score. After the duo's departure, Ravindra Jadeja, who surprisingly came out to bat at no.4, added 36 runs for the fourth wicket with Surykaumar Yadav. Suryakumar was cleaned up by Shah after a run-a-ball 18 paving the way for Hardik's arrival as the all-rounder joined forces with Jadeja in the middle and took India closer to the finishing line. Also Read: Virat Kohli becomes first Indian cricketer to play 100 matches in all three formats With 21 runs required off the final 12 deliveries in India's 148-run chase, Hardik slammed three boundaries off four balls in the penultimate over from fast bowler Haris Rauf to bring the equation in India's favour before finishing things off in style in the final over. Jadeja was dismissed on the very first delivery of the final over leaving India in a tricky spot despite just 7 runs needed as Dinesh Karthik arrived in the middle. However, Hardik looked unfazed by Jadeja's untimely dismissal and showed no signs of pressure even after playing a dot ball on the third delivery to leave six runs to get off the last three balls. The star all-rounder smacked a huge six in a nonchalant manner on the 4th delivery to take India home without breaking a sweat. It was a stunning all-round performance from Hardik as he followed up his three-wicket haul with a match-winning 33 to be named the Man of the Match in the marquee clash. Also Read: 'There is no better cricket'- Waqar Younis calls for annual or biannual bilaterals between India and Pakistan India recorded their biggest run-chase against Pakistan in a T20I game after nailing down the target of 148 runs in Dubai on Sunday as they got off to a winning start in Asia Cup 2022. Courtesy of Pandya's heroics, Men in Blue also managed to avenge their ten-wicket defeat against Babar Azam & Co. in the T20 World Cup last year.

Asia Cup 2022: Hardik Pandya stars as India beat Pakistan by 5 wickets in last-over thriller

It was a proper India-Pakistan clash when both sides faced each other in the Asia Cup 2022 edition, on Sunday (August 28), at the iconic Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. Facing each other for the first time since the 2021 T20 World Cup, held at the same ground, Rohit Sharma-led India were eyeing to settle scores versus Babar Azam's Pakistan following their ten-wicket loss versus the arch-rivals in last year's face-off at the mega event. The match went down to the wire before Hardik Pandya's all-round skills bailed India out and guided them to a five-wicket win.

After delivering with the ball, returning with 3 for 25 after Bhuvneshwar Kumar's 4-fer restricted Pakistan to 147 all-out in 19.5 overs following India's decision to bowl first, Hardik came out to bat in the run-chase with India reduced to 89-4 in 14.2 overs. He looked calm and composed as ever and stitched an important 52-run fifth-wicket stand with Ravindra Jadeja (35 off 29 balls) before guiding the team to a thrilling five-wicket win with seven required off the last over. Hardik ended the proceedings with a fine six off Mohammad Nawaz, Pakistan's best bowler in the evening, to end with a fine 17-ball 33 not out.&nbsp;

After the match, Hardik gave a sneak peak of his mindset and said at the post-match presentation, "We only needed 7 off the last over, but even if we needed 15, I’d have fancied myself. I know the bowler is under more pressure than I am in the 20th over. I try to keep things simple. In a chase like this, you always plan over-by-over. I always knew that there was one young bowler and also one left-arm spinner."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-2022-hardik-pandya-stars-as-india-beat-pakistan-by-5-wickets-in-last-over-thriller-510973">Asia Cup 2022: Hardik Pandya stars as India beat Pakistan by 5 wickets in last-over thriller</a>

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From <a href="https://twitter.com/hardikpandya7?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@hardikpandya7</a>'s emotional Asia Cup journey to <a href="https://twitter.com/imjadeja?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imjadeja</a>'s solid batting display! 👍 👍 
 
The all-rounder duo chat up after <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> win their <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AsiaCup2022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AsiaCup2022</a> opener against Pakistan - by <a href="https://twitter.com/ameyatilak?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ameyatilak</a> 
 
Full interview 🎥 🔽 <a href="https://t.co/efJHpc4dBo">https://t.co/efJHpc4dBo</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvPAK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvPAK</a> <a href="https://t.co/MJOij6bDRl">pic.twitter.com/MJOij6bDRl</a>
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Hardik has been in the form of his life ever since returning to competitive cricket in IPL 2022. He has grown as a leader and shown his class as an able finisher as well. Moreover, he is bowling his full quota of overs in the shortest format more often than not and also providing regular breakthroughs. India will hope for Hardik to continue his dream run even in the forthcoming 2022 T20 World Cup, which will be held in Australia from October-November

It was a proper India-Pakistan clash when both sides faced each other in the Asia Cup 2022 edition, on Sunday (August 28), at the iconic Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai.

It was a proper India-Pakistan clash when both sides faced each other in the Asia Cup 2022 edition, on Sunday (August 28), at the iconic Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. Facing each other for the first time since the 2021 T20 World Cup, held at the same ground, Rohit Sharma-led India were eyeing to settle scores versus Babar Azam's Pakistan following their ten-wicket loss versus the arch-rivals in last year's face-off at the mega event. The match went down to the wire before Hardik Pandya's all-round skills bailed India out and guided them to a five-wicket win. After delivering with the ball, returning with 3 for 25 after Bhuvneshwar Kumar's 4-fer restricted Pakistan to 147 all-out in 19.5 overs following India's decision to bowl first, Hardik came out to bat in the run-chase with India reduced to 89-4 in 14.2 overs. He looked calm and composed as ever and stitched an important 52-run fifth-wicket stand with Ravindra Jadeja (35 off 29 balls) before guiding the team to a thrilling five-wicket win with seven required off the last over. Hardik ended the proceedings with a fine six off Mohammad Nawaz, Pakistan's best bowler in the evening, to end with a fine 17-ball 33 not out. After the match, Hardik gave a sneak peak of his mindset and said at the post-match presentation, "We only needed 7 off the last over, but even if we needed 15, I’d have fancied myself. I know the bowler is under more pressure than I am in the 20th over. I try to keep things simple. In a chase like this, you always plan over-by-over. I always knew that there was one young bowler and also one left-arm spinner." ALSO READ | Asia Cup 2022: Hardik Pandya stars as India beat Pakistan by 5 wickets in last-over thriller From @hardikpandya7's emotional Asia Cup journey to @imjadeja's solid batting display! 👍 👍 The all-rounder duo chat up after #TeamIndia win their #AsiaCup2022 opener against Pakistan - by @ameyatilak Full interview 🎥 🔽 https://t.co/efJHpc4dBo #INDvPAK pic.twitter.com/MJOij6bDRl — BCCI (@BCCI) August 29, 2022 × Hardik has been in the form of his life ever since returning to competitive cricket in IPL 2022. He has grown as a leader and shown his class as an able finisher as well. Moreover, he is bowling his full quota of overs in the shortest format more often than not and also providing regular breakthroughs. India will hope for Hardik to continue his dream run even in the forthcoming 2022 T20 World Cup, which will be held in Australia from October-November

'Even if we needed 15, I'd have fancied myself': Hardik Pandya after India edge past Pakistan in Asia 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.&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

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

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

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

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

India and Pakistan locked horns with each other in the Asia Cup showdown on Sunday (August 28) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. It was the same venue where both sides had last met during the 2021 T20 World Cup, where Babar Azam-led Men in Green had achieved their maiden World Cup win over their Asian neighbours by beating them by ten wickets.&nbsp;

Nonetheless, Pakistan failed to make it two wins in a row versus India as Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. beat them by five wickets in a thrilling contest on Sunday evening. For India, Bhuvneshwar Kumar (4 for 26) and Hardik Pandya's 3-25 dismissed Pakistan for 147 in 19.5 overs, after opting to bowl first. In reply, India were in a spot of bother being 89-4 but Ravindra Jadeja's 35 and Hardik's 17-ball 33 not out to propel the Men in Blue to a thrilling last-over win. While India were bailed out of a crisis situation, they will be content in returning with a victory to open their campaign in style. Set to face Hong Kong in their next tie, on Wednesday (August 31), India will hope to go unchanged and make it two victories on the trot.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-hardiks-savage-response-to-dinesh-karthik-in-last-over-of-ind-vs-pak-thriller-goes-viral-watch-511092">Asia Cup: Hardik's savage response to Dinesh Karthik in last-over of IND vs PAK thriller goes viral - watch</a>

Rishabh Pant, on the other hand, wasn't part of the Pakistan clash -- with India choosing to go ahead with Dinesh Karthik over the swashbuckling left-hander -- and will hope to get a look-in before the Super Four round. Shoaib Akhtar, former Pakistan pacer, had plenty to say about the Indo-Pak clash. He slammed Mohammad Rizwan for playing an unimpressive 42-ball 43-run-knock and slammed both captains for 'bad selections'.

&nbsp;"If Rizwan will play run-a-ball then obviously what will happen? 19 dot balls in the first 6 overs. If you play so many dot balls, then you will face problems," Akhtar said on his&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;channel.

"It was a bad selection by both captains. Both tried to pick the wrong teams. They (India) dropped Rishabh Pant and we (Pakistan) added Iftikhar Ahmed at number four. No disrespect to Iftikhar or anybody, but I have said this multiple times... Babar Azam shouldn't open. Instead, he should come one down and anchor the innings till the end," the Rawalpindi Express added.

It will be interesting to see if India bring back Pant into the playing XI and whether Pakistan will break their trusted opening pair of Babar-Rizwan going forward into the tournament. Both the Asian giants face Hong Kong in their remaining group stage encounter before the action shifts to the Super Four, followed by the final.&nbsp;

India and Pakistan locked horns with each other in the Asia Cup showdown on Sunday (August 28) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. It was the same venue where both sides had last met during the 2021 T20 World Cup, where Babar Azam-led Men in Green had achieved their maiden World Cup win over their Asian neighbours by beating them by ten wickets.

India and Pakistan locked horns with each other in the Asia Cup showdown on Sunday (August 28) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. It was the same venue where both sides had last met during the 2021 T20 World Cup, where Babar Azam-led Men in Green had achieved their maiden World Cup win over their Asian neighbours by beating them by ten wickets. Nonetheless, Pakistan failed to make it two wins in a row versus India as Rohit Sharma & Co. beat them by five wickets in a thrilling contest on Sunday evening. For India, Bhuvneshwar Kumar (4 for 26) and Hardik Pandya's 3-25 dismissed Pakistan for 147 in 19.5 overs, after opting to bowl first. In reply, India were in a spot of bother being 89-4 but Ravindra Jadeja's 35 and Hardik's 17-ball 33 not out to propel the Men in Blue to a thrilling last-over win. While India were bailed out of a crisis situation, they will be content in returning with a victory to open their campaign in style. Set to face Hong Kong in their next tie, on Wednesday (August 31), India will hope to go unchanged and make it two victories on the trot. ALSO READ | Asia Cup: Hardik's savage response to Dinesh Karthik in last-over of IND vs PAK thriller goes viral - watch Rishabh Pant, on the other hand, wasn't part of the Pakistan clash -- with India choosing to go ahead with Dinesh Karthik over the swashbuckling left-hander -- and will hope to get a look-in before the Super Four round. Shoaib Akhtar, former Pakistan pacer, had plenty to say about the Indo-Pak clash. He slammed Mohammad Rizwan for playing an unimpressive 42-ball 43-run-knock and slammed both captains for 'bad selections'. "If Rizwan will play run-a-ball then obviously what will happen? 19 dot balls in the first 6 overs. If you play so many dot balls, then you will face problems," Akhtar said on his YouTube channel. "It was a bad selection by both captains. Both tried to pick the wrong teams. They (India) dropped Rishabh Pant and we (Pakistan) added Iftikhar Ahmed at number four. No disrespect to Iftikhar or anybody, but I have said this multiple times... Babar Azam shouldn't open. Instead, he should come one down and anchor the innings till the end," the Rawalpindi Express added. It will be interesting to see if India bring back Pant into the playing XI and whether Pakistan will break their trusted opening pair of Babar-Rizwan going forward into the tournament. Both the Asian giants face Hong Kong in their remaining group stage encounter before the action shifts to the Super Four, followed by the final.

Shoaib Akhtar slams Rohit Sharma & Co. for dropping Rishabh Pant in Asia Cup showdown vs Pakistan

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

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

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

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

India captain Rohit Sharma has played down the hype surrounding the much-awaited clash between arch-rivals India and Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2022. Rohit said he will treat the high-profile encounter as just another game and won't stress too much about India's 10-wicket defeat against Pakistan in the last meeting between the two sides at the T20 World Cup 2021&nbsp;in a lop-sided clash in Dubai. 
 
India and Pakistan are set to renew their rivalry at the same venue in the Asia Cup 2022 on Sunday (August 28).

India and Pakistan share one of the greatest rivalries in cricket and there is a significant buzz surrounding the clash on Sunday. Millions of fans around the globe are likely to remain glued to their TV screens when the two giants take on each other in what promises to be a cracker.

However, Indian skipper Rohit wants to treat it as just another game.&nbsp;"The mood in the camp is buzzing. It is a fresh tournament. New start. No point thinking about the loss. We need not think what happened in the past. We also want to move in the forward direction. It is always challenging to play Pakistan but what is important for us is what we want to achieve together than thinking about the opposition," Rohit said in the pre-match&nbsp;press conference on Saturday.

"You people can create the hype, I'll focus on the match," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-might-be-thinking-of-revenge-pakistan-head-coach-issues-warning-to-babar-co-ahead-of-india-clash-510801">'India might be thinking of revenge': Pakistan head coach issues warning to Babar &amp; Co. ahead of India clash</a>

Rohit had led India to a memorable triumph at the Asia Cup in 2018. He was serving as the stand-in captain of the team back then in the absence of regular skipper Virat Kohli. However, Rohit is now the permanent skipper and will be looking to make a mark against Pakistan on Sunday.

India are missing fast bowlers Jasprit Bumrah and Harshal Patel during this&nbsp;tournament, but the Pakistan clash will mark the return of Virat Kohli after a short break. The batting maestro has been under fire over his lean patch with the willow and will be hopeful of sparking a turnaround against Pakistan in the Asia Cup.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-pakistan-asia-cup-2022-date-match-time-predicted-playing-xis-and-live-streaming-details-510711">India vs Pakistan, Asia Cup 2022: Date, match time, predicted playing XIs and live streaming details</a>

In what is a huge relief for the Indian batters, Pakistan are missing the services of left-arm pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi, who had wreaked havoc on the Men in Blue in their last meeting. The Indian batters will be looking to capitalise on Afridi's absence&nbsp;and take the Pakistan bowling attack to the cleaners.

India captain Rohit Sharma has played down the hype surrounding the much-awaited clash between arch-rivals India and Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2022. Rohit said he will treat the high-profile encounter as just another game and won't stress too much about India's 10-wicket defeat against Pakistan in the last meeting between the two sides at the T20 World Cup 2021 in a lop-sided clash in Dubai.

India captain Rohit Sharma has played down the hype surrounding the much-awaited clash between arch-rivals India and Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2022. Rohit said he will treat the high-profile encounter as just another game and won't stress too much about India's 10-wicket defeat against Pakistan in the last meeting between the two sides at the T20 World Cup 2021 in a lop-sided clash in Dubai. India and Pakistan are set to renew their rivalry at the same venue in the Asia Cup 2022 on Sunday (August 28). India and Pakistan share one of the greatest rivalries in cricket and there is a significant buzz surrounding the clash on Sunday. Millions of fans around the globe are likely to remain glued to their TV screens when the two giants take on each other in what promises to be a cracker. However, Indian skipper Rohit wants to treat it as just another game. "The mood in the camp is buzzing. It is a fresh tournament. New start. No point thinking about the loss. We need not think what happened in the past. We also want to move in the forward direction. It is always challenging to play Pakistan but what is important for us is what we want to achieve together than thinking about the opposition," Rohit said in the pre-match press conference on Saturday. "You people can create the hype, I'll focus on the match," he added. Also Read: 'India might be thinking of revenge': Pakistan head coach issues warning to Babar & Co. ahead of India clash Rohit had led India to a memorable triumph at the Asia Cup in 2018. He was serving as the stand-in captain of the team back then in the absence of regular skipper Virat Kohli. However, Rohit is now the permanent skipper and will be looking to make a mark against Pakistan on Sunday. India are missing fast bowlers Jasprit Bumrah and Harshal Patel during this tournament, but the Pakistan clash will mark the return of Virat Kohli after a short break. The batting maestro has been under fire over his lean patch with the willow and will be hopeful of sparking a turnaround against Pakistan in the Asia Cup. Also Read: India vs Pakistan, Asia Cup 2022: Date, match time, predicted playing XIs and live streaming details In what is a huge relief for the Indian batters, Pakistan are missing the services of left-arm pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi, who had wreaked havoc on the Men in Blue in their last meeting. The Indian batters will be looking to capitalise on Afridi's absence and take the Pakistan bowling attack to the cleaners.

You can create the hype, I will focus on the match: Rohit Sharma ahead of high-pressure Pakistan clash

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.

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"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

India and Pakistan are set to resume their epic rivalry in the Asia Cup 2022 which gets underway in the UAE on Saturday (August 27). The arch-rivals will lock horns in a marquee clash at the Dubai International Stadium on Sunday. The buzz around the game is unreal as India and Pakistan are set to meet for the first time in 10 months.

As the Men in Blue gear up for the blockbuster clash, Indian captain Rohit Sharma was spotted catching up with a group of Pakistani fans, on the sidelines of Team India's training session in Dubai. Rohit was monitoring India's training session with the team's strength and conditioning coach Soham Desai when he decided to head towards the boundary rails and meet the Pakistani fans.

Rohit posed for pictures and shook hands with a couple of them before one fan requested him for a semi-hug. Despite the fence separating them, the Pakistan fan requested Rohit to virtually hug him from the other side and the Indian captain obliged. The heartwarming&nbsp;gesture left the fans in awe and the video of the incident went viral.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-doesnt-instill-fear-anymore-pakistan-star-shadab-khan-responds-to-former-india-skippers-critics-510599">Kohli doesn't instil fear anymore? Pakistan star Shadab Khan responds to former India skipper's critics</a> 
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What is this <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRo45?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImRo45</a> 
Here is love whatever shows by legend cricketer Rohit Sharma. 
Hug with Pakistani guy<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AsiaCup2022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AsiaCup2022</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RohitSharma%F0%93%83%B5?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RohitSharma𓃵</a> <a href="https://t.co/UVl7vW0vMZ">pic.twitter.com/UVl7vW0vMZ</a>
— Sports Pak Tv (@SportPakTv) <a href="https://twitter.com/SportPakTv/status/1563320382840778755?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 27, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Rohit, who led India to a memorable triumph at the Asia Cup in 2018, will be aiming to repeat the feat once again this year. India have been a force to reckon with in T20Is under the Hitman and are yet to lose a T20I series under him since he took over as permanent captain in the shortest format last year.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/want-to-make-my-team-win-at-any-cost-even-if-i-am-gasping-for-breathe-when-i-walk-off-the-field-virat-kohli-510556">Want to make my team win at any cost, even if I am gasping for breathe when I walk off the field: Virat Kohli</a>

After getting a special hug from the Indian skipper, the Pakistani fan said he never expected Rohit to come close and interact with the group. The fan revealed he came from Pakistan to meet the India skipper and lauded him for his class and passion.

“I never expected he [Rohit] would come closer and interact with us. I came from Pakistan to see him, and he gave me a hug, though there was a fence in between,” said the Pakistan fan.

“Though I support Pakistan, I came specially to meet Rohit. His passion and class are phenomenal,” he added.

India suffered a humiliating 10-wicket defeat when they last met Pakistan in the ICC T20 World Cup 2021 last year. The Men in Blue will be hopeful of getting off to a winning start when they take on the Men in Green in their Asia Cup 2022 tie on Sunday.

India and Pakistan are set to resume their epic rivalry in the Asia Cup 2022 which gets underway in the UAE on Saturday (August 27). The arch-rivals will lock horns in a marquee clash at the Dubai International Stadium on Sunday.

India and Pakistan are set to resume their epic rivalry in the Asia Cup 2022 which gets underway in the UAE on Saturday (August 27). The arch-rivals will lock horns in a marquee clash at the Dubai International Stadium on Sunday. The buzz around the game is unreal as India and Pakistan are set to meet for the first time in 10 months. As the Men in Blue gear up for the blockbuster clash, Indian captain Rohit Sharma was spotted catching up with a group of Pakistani fans, on the sidelines of Team India's training session in Dubai. Rohit was monitoring India's training session with the team's strength and conditioning coach Soham Desai when he decided to head towards the boundary rails and meet the Pakistani fans. Rohit posed for pictures and shook hands with a couple of them before one fan requested him for a semi-hug. Despite the fence separating them, the Pakistan fan requested Rohit to virtually hug him from the other side and the Indian captain obliged. The heartwarming gesture left the fans in awe and the video of the incident went viral. Also Read: Kohli doesn't instil fear anymore? Pakistan star Shadab Khan responds to former India skipper's critics What is this @ImRo45 Here is love whatever shows by legend cricketer Rohit Sharma. Hug with Pakistani guy#AsiaCup2022#RohitSharma𓃵 pic.twitter.com/UVl7vW0vMZ — Sports Pak Tv (@SportPakTv) August 27, 2022 × Rohit, who led India to a memorable triumph at the Asia Cup in 2018, will be aiming to repeat the feat once again this year. India have been a force to reckon with in T20Is under the Hitman and are yet to lose a T20I series under him since he took over as permanent captain in the shortest format last year. Also Read: Want to make my team win at any cost, even if I am gasping for breathe when I walk off the field: Virat Kohli After getting a special hug from the Indian skipper, the Pakistani fan said he never expected Rohit to come close and interact with the group. The fan revealed he came from Pakistan to meet the India skipper and lauded him for his class and passion. “I never expected he [Rohit] would come closer and interact with us. I came from Pakistan to see him, and he gave me a hug, though there was a fence in between,” said the Pakistan fan. “Though I support Pakistan, I came specially to meet Rohit. His passion and class are phenomenal,” he added. India suffered a humiliating 10-wicket defeat when they last met Pakistan in the ICC T20 World Cup 2021 last year. The Men in Blue will be hopeful of getting off to a winning start when they take on the Men in Green in their Asia Cup 2022 tie on Sunday.

Heartwarming! Pakistan fan requests Rohit Sharma for a special hug, Indian captain obliges - WATCH

India will be looking to get off to a flying start when they lock horns with arch-rivals Pakistan in their opening game of Asia Cup 2022 at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai on Sunday (August 28). Rohit Sharma-led India will enter the tournament as the favourites having won the title a record seven times.

India won the last edition of the Asia Cup in 2018 under Rohit's captaincy and will be aiming to successfully defend their&nbsp;title in the UAE this year. India face some major selection headaches ahead of the marquee clash as senior batter Virat Kohli is all set to make his comeback for the team after a short break.

Kohli was rested from India's tour of West Indies and Zimbabwe following the conclusion of the England tour last month amid his batting struggles. India's vice-captain KL Rahul will also be under the spotlight having recently made his return from injury for the Men in Blue.

While Kohli and Rahul are likely to walk into the playing XI and slot into the top three, India are spoilt for choices in the middle-order with the likes of Deepak Hooda, Dinesh Karthik, Hardik Pandya, Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja competing for spots. In the bowling department as well, India will have to get their selection right in the absence of premier pacer Jasprit Bumrah.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/heartwarming-pakistan-fan-requests-rohit-sharma-for-a-special-hug-indian-captain-obliges-watch-510624">Heartwarming! Pakistan fan requests Rohit Sharma for a special hug, Indian captain obliges - WATCH</a>

Here is a look at India's predicted playing XI for&nbsp;clash against Pakistan in Asia Cup 2022:

Top order - Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Virat Kohli

Virat Kohli's return is one of the major talking points ahead of the Pakistan clash and pressure will be on the former India captain to deliver. Kohli has struggled with his form of late but has the team management's backing to turn it around. Rohit Sharma is likely to open with KL Rahul, who failed to fire against Zimbabwe recently but will be hopeful of finding his mojo.

Middle order - Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja

After their terrible top-order collapse against Pakistan at the T20 World Cup last year, India will be wary of the threat and would like to bat deep in the much-awaited encounter. Suryakumar Yadav faces tough competition for a spot in the XI from Deepak Hooda but is likely to be prefered. Rishabh Pant is expected to pip Dinesh Karthik as the first-choice keeper-batter while Hardik Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja will be two all-rounders in the team.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-doesnt-instill-fear-anymore-pakistan-star-shadab-khan-responds-to-former-india-skippers-critics-510599">Wish Virat Kohli scores a ton in Asia Cup, but not against us: Pakistan all-rounder Shadab Khan&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;</a>

Spinners - Yuzvendra Chahal

With Jadeja in the line-up, India can afford to head into the clash with Yuzvendra Chahal as the only specialist spinner considering the tack in Dubai has helped fast bowlers in the past. Chahal's wicket-taking abilities in the middle-order will be crucial to India's chances in the game.

Pacers - Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh

With no Jasprit Bumrah and Harshal Patel in the squad, India's pace attack looks thin on paper but Bhuvneshwar Kumar's experience will help the Men in Blue negate the duo's absence. Both Arshdeep and Avesh have impressed recently and will be hopeful of continuing their fine form against Pakistan. Hardik Pandya can be India's 4th pace-bowling option and his contribution with the ball will come in handy for the team.

India's predicted XI: Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Yuzevndra Chahal, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh

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India will be looking to get off to a flying start when they lock horns with arch-rivals Pakistan in their opening game of Asia Cup 2022 at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai on Sunday (August 28).

India will be looking to get off to a flying start when they lock horns with arch-rivals Pakistan in their opening game of Asia Cup 2022 at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai on Sunday (August 28). Rohit Sharma-led India will enter the tournament as the favourites having won the title a record seven times. India won the last edition of the Asia Cup in 2018 under Rohit's captaincy and will be aiming to successfully defend their title in the UAE this year. India face some major selection headaches ahead of the marquee clash as senior batter Virat Kohli is all set to make his comeback for the team after a short break. Kohli was rested from India's tour of West Indies and Zimbabwe following the conclusion of the England tour last month amid his batting struggles. India's vice-captain KL Rahul will also be under the spotlight having recently made his return from injury for the Men in Blue. While Kohli and Rahul are likely to walk into the playing XI and slot into the top three, India are spoilt for choices in the middle-order with the likes of Deepak Hooda, Dinesh Karthik, Hardik Pandya, Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja competing for spots. In the bowling department as well, India will have to get their selection right in the absence of premier pacer Jasprit Bumrah. Also Read: Heartwarming! Pakistan fan requests Rohit Sharma for a special hug, Indian captain obliges - WATCH Here is a look at India's predicted playing XI for clash against Pakistan in Asia Cup 2022: Top order - Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Virat Kohli Virat Kohli's return is one of the major talking points ahead of the Pakistan clash and pressure will be on the former India captain to deliver. Kohli has struggled with his form of late but has the team management's backing to turn it around. Rohit Sharma is likely to open with KL Rahul, who failed to fire against Zimbabwe recently but will be hopeful of finding his mojo. Middle order - Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja After their terrible top-order collapse against Pakistan at the T20 World Cup last year, India will be wary of the threat and would like to bat deep in the much-awaited encounter. Suryakumar Yadav faces tough competition for a spot in the XI from Deepak Hooda but is likely to be prefered. Rishabh Pant is expected to pip Dinesh Karthik as the first-choice keeper-batter while Hardik Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja will be two all-rounders in the team. Also Read: Wish Virat Kohli scores a ton in Asia Cup, but not against us: Pakistan all-rounder Shadab Khan Spinners - Yuzvendra Chahal With Jadeja in the line-up, India can afford to head into the clash with Yuzvendra Chahal as the only specialist spinner considering the tack in Dubai has helped fast bowlers in the past. Chahal's wicket-taking abilities in the middle-order will be crucial to India's chances in the game. Pacers - Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh With no Jasprit Bumrah and Harshal Patel in the squad, India's pace attack looks thin on paper but Bhuvneshwar Kumar's experience will help the Men in Blue negate the duo's absence. Both Arshdeep and Avesh have impressed recently and will be hopeful of continuing their fine form against Pakistan. Hardik Pandya can be India's 4th pace-bowling option and his contribution with the ball will come in handy for the team. India's predicted XI: Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Yuzevndra Chahal, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh

Virat Kohli to return! India's predicted playing XI for Asia Cup clash against Pakistan

India and Pakistan will resume their cricketing rivalry when they lock horns in the upcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition, in the UAE. The tournament kicks off on August 27 with the two Asian giants meeting each other on August 28, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. Rohit Sharma-led India will look to settle scores versus the Men in Green who had defeated them by ten wickets in the 2021 T20 World Cup.

Babar Azam-led Pakistan had won their first-ever World Cup clash versus the then Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue, hence, they will be in good stead before taking on their arch-rivals. However, Rohit's India have revamped in style and won as many as 19 games out of 24 encounters following the shambolic performance versus Pakistan. Thus, it is set to be an exciting battle when India and Pakistan resume their rivalry on the 22-yard cricket strip. Ahead of the much-awaited battle, former Pakistan batting great Younis Khan explained why Rohit has an edge over Pakistan skipper Babar when it comes to leadership skills.&nbsp;

"We all know how crucial Rohit and Babar are when it comes to scoring big runs for their teams and the importance they carry in terms of putting up performances of significance. But, captaincy-wise, Rohit has an edge over Babar because he has had a longer period as a senior Team India member and played under good captains as well. So that experience bodes well for Rohit," Younis told&nbsp;Telegraph India.

Given Rohit's experience, he certainly has an edge over Babar. But, the 27-year-old Pakistani has done well as a leader so far. Under him, Pakistan reached the semi-finals of the 2021 T20 WC and are ranked third in ICC T20I Rankings.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-virat-kohli-wins-hearts-meets-specially-abled-pakistani-fangirl-before-indias-asia-cup-opener-510325">Watch: Virat Kohli wins hearts, meets specially-abled Pakistani fangirl before India's Asia Cup opener</a>

It was under Rohit when India won the 2018 Asia Cup, in the UAE. Back then, the tournament was played in the 50-over format. However, this time around, it will be held in the shortest format as a dress rehearsal for the 2022 T20 World Cup. Rohit &amp; Co. will be desperate to settle scores with Pakistan and and also clinch the Asia Cup -- for the third time in a row -- before heading into the T20 WC in Australia, from October-November.

India and Pakistan will resume their cricketing rivalry when they lock horns in the upcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition, in the UAE. The tournament kicks off on August 27 with the two Asian giants meeting each other on August 28, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai.

India and Pakistan will resume their cricketing rivalry when they lock horns in the upcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition, in the UAE. The tournament kicks off on August 27 with the two Asian giants meeting each other on August 28, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. Rohit Sharma-led India will look to settle scores versus the Men in Green who had defeated them by ten wickets in the 2021 T20 World Cup. Babar Azam-led Pakistan had won their first-ever World Cup clash versus the then Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue, hence, they will be in good stead before taking on their arch-rivals. However, Rohit's India have revamped in style and won as many as 19 games out of 24 encounters following the shambolic performance versus Pakistan. Thus, it is set to be an exciting battle when India and Pakistan resume their rivalry on the 22-yard cricket strip. Ahead of the much-awaited battle, former Pakistan batting great Younis Khan explained why Rohit has an edge over Pakistan skipper Babar when it comes to leadership skills. "We all know how crucial Rohit and Babar are when it comes to scoring big runs for their teams and the importance they carry in terms of putting up performances of significance. But, captaincy-wise, Rohit has an edge over Babar because he has had a longer period as a senior Team India member and played under good captains as well. So that experience bodes well for Rohit," Younis told Telegraph India. Given Rohit's experience, he certainly has an edge over Babar. But, the 27-year-old Pakistani has done well as a leader so far. Under him, Pakistan reached the semi-finals of the 2021 T20 WC and are ranked third in ICC T20I Rankings. ALSO READ | Watch: Virat Kohli wins hearts, meets specially-abled Pakistani fangirl before India's Asia Cup opener It was under Rohit when India won the 2018 Asia Cup, in the UAE. Back then, the tournament was played in the 50-over format. However, this time around, it will be held in the shortest format as a dress rehearsal for the 2022 T20 World Cup. Rohit & Co. will be desperate to settle scores with Pakistan and and also clinch the Asia Cup -- for the third time in a row -- before heading into the T20 WC in Australia, from October-November.

Younis explains why Rohit Sharma has an edge over Babar Azam prior to Indo-Pak showdown at Asia Cup

Virat Kohli has a massive fanbase worldwide. The 33-year-old Indian superstar is gearing up for his international comeback in the upcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition, which gets underway on August 27. Ahead of India's tournament-opener versus Pakistan, on August 28 (Sunday) in Dubai, Kohli won hearts once again with his gesture for a specially-abled Pakistani fan girl who was desperate to meet him in Dubai.&nbsp;

Even though the tournament is yet to start, many fans have reported to the Dubai stadium to catch a glimpse of star players and hope to meet them. Similarly, the Pakistani fangirl also attended the Indian cricket team's practice session in Dubai where she wanted to meet Virat. After waiting for hours, the fan finally met him once&nbsp;the former Indian skipper noticed her and asked the security to let her meet him. The overjoyed fan revealed the details of the meeting as well.

"I am not a fan of anyone but Virat Kohli, for whom I have come from Pakistan hoping to get a picture clicked with him. I waited for an entire month for this so the moment he finished his practice and was about to go back to his hotel, I tried a lot. He is an amazing person besides being a fabulous cricketer. He listened to me and agreed to my request of getting the selfie clicked," she told PakTV.

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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/our-partnerships-would-virat-kohlis-heartfelt-post-for-ms-dhoni-goes-viral-ahead-of-asia-cup-510262">'Our partnerships would...' - Virat Kohli's heartfelt post for MS Dhoni goes viral ahead of Asia Cup</a>

Ahead of the Asia Cup, Kohli had also tweeted about MS Dhoni while recalling his time serving as the legendary captain's deputy. He took to his Twitter account and wrote, "Being this man’s trusted deputy was the most enjoyable and exciting period in my career. Our partnerships would always be special to me forever. 7+18." The post went viral in no time.

Being out of form for quite sometime, Kohli will hope to deliver the goods for Rohit Sharma's Team India in the Asian championship in the UAE. The Men in Blue enter as the defending champions, having won the title twice in a row since 2016.

Virat Kohli has a massive fanbase worldwide. The 33-year-old Indian superstar is gearing up for his international comeback in the upcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition, which gets underway on August 27.

Virat Kohli has a massive fanbase worldwide. The 33-year-old Indian superstar is gearing up for his international comeback in the upcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition, which gets underway on August 27. Ahead of India's tournament-opener versus Pakistan, on August 28 (Sunday) in Dubai, Kohli won hearts once again with his gesture for a specially-abled Pakistani fan girl who was desperate to meet him in Dubai. Even though the tournament is yet to start, many fans have reported to the Dubai stadium to catch a glimpse of star players and hope to meet them. Similarly, the Pakistani fangirl also attended the Indian cricket team's practice session in Dubai where she wanted to meet Virat. After waiting for hours, the fan finally met him once the former Indian skipper noticed her and asked the security to let her meet him. The overjoyed fan revealed the details of the meeting as well. "I am not a fan of anyone but Virat Kohli, for whom I have come from Pakistan hoping to get a picture clicked with him. I waited for an entire month for this so the moment he finished his practice and was about to go back to his hotel, I tried a lot. He is an amazing person besides being a fabulous cricketer. He listened to me and agreed to my request of getting the selfie clicked," she told PakTV. × ALSO READ | 'Our partnerships would...' - Virat Kohli's heartfelt post for MS Dhoni goes viral ahead of Asia Cup Ahead of the Asia Cup, Kohli had also tweeted about MS Dhoni while recalling his time serving as the legendary captain's deputy. He took to his Twitter account and wrote, "Being this man’s trusted deputy was the most enjoyable and exciting period in my career. Our partnerships would always be special to me forever. 7+18." The post went viral in no time. Being out of form for quite sometime, Kohli will hope to deliver the goods for Rohit Sharma's Team India in the Asian championship in the UAE. The Men in Blue enter as the defending champions, having won the title twice in a row since 2016.

Watch: Virat Kohli wins hearts, meets specially-abled Pakistani fangirl before India's Asia Cup opener

Just a few days are left for the India-Pakistan clash in the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition. The tournament will kick off on August 27&nbsp;in the UAE&nbsp;with Afghanistan taking on Sri Lanka but the most-awaited clash is when the two Asian giants India and Pakistan lock horns a day later at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.&nbsp;

Ahead of the India-Pakistan face-off, the first since the 2021 T20 World Cup, Indian captain Rohit Sharma played down the hype on the contest. 
 
Speaking to the tournament's broadcaster Star Sports, Sharma said, "Everyone watches the game and it's a high-pressure game without a doubt, but within the group we want to create a normal atmosphere." 
 
"We don't want to hype this game too much. It's important to tell the players who haven't played against Pakistan or played them just one or two times that it's just another opposition," he told Star Sports.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-is-not-out-of-form-the-issue-is-rashid-khan-shares-his-take-on-virat-kohlis-form-ahead-of-asia-cup-510038">'He is not out of form, the issue is...' - Rashid Khan shares his take on Virat Kohli's form ahead of Asia Cup</a>

India will be eager to settle scores with Pakistan after their dismal performance in last year's clash during the 2021 T20 WC. Back then, Shaheen Afridi's 3/31&nbsp;had rocked India's top-order as they only managed 151/7, riding on then skipper Virat Kohli's 57, before openers Babar-Md Rizwan's unbeaten half-centuries propelled Pakistan to their maiden World Cup win over their neighbouring country.

Will the script remain the same for India, under Rohit? Or, will Men in Blue return to winning ways versus Pakistan? Only time will tell...

Just a few days are left for the India-Pakistan clash in the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition. The tournament will kick off on August 27 in the UAE with Afghanistan taking on Sri Lanka but the most-awaited clash is when the two Asian giants India and Pakistan lock horns a day later at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.

Just a few days are left for the India-Pakistan clash in the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition. The tournament will kick off on August 27 in the UAE with Afghanistan taking on Sri Lanka but the most-awaited clash is when the two Asian giants India and Pakistan lock horns a day later at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Ahead of the India-Pakistan face-off, the first since the 2021 T20 World Cup, Indian captain Rohit Sharma played down the hype on the contest. Speaking to the tournament's broadcaster Star Sports, Sharma said, "Everyone watches the game and it's a high-pressure game without a doubt, but within the group we want to create a normal atmosphere." "We don't want to hype this game too much. It's important to tell the players who haven't played against Pakistan or played them just one or two times that it's just another opposition," he told Star Sports. ALSO READ | 'He is not out of form, the issue is...' - Rashid Khan shares his take on Virat Kohli's form ahead of Asia Cup India will be eager to settle scores with Pakistan after their dismal performance in last year's clash during the 2021 T20 WC. Back then, Shaheen Afridi's 3/31 had rocked India's top-order as they only managed 151/7, riding on then skipper Virat Kohli's 57, before openers Babar-Md Rizwan's unbeaten half-centuries propelled Pakistan to their maiden World Cup win over their neighbouring country. Will the script remain the same for India, under Rohit? Or, will Men in Blue return to winning ways versus Pakistan? Only time will tell...

'It's just another opposition' - Rohit Sharma downplays hype around India-Pakistan face-off in Asia Cup

The stage is set for the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition, set to get underway in the UAE on August 27. India and Pakistan -- two of the strongest teams in the competition -- will start as favourites and many await the Indo-Pak clash, which will take place on August 28 (Sunday)&nbsp;in Dubai.

Ahead of the commencement of the Asian championship, many former cricketers and experts of the game have made their predictions as to which team&nbsp;will walk away with the mega title. Former New Zealand all-rounder Scott Styris feels Rohit Sharma-led India -- the defending champions and seven-time winners&nbsp;-- have the ability to squash everybody, including Pakistan.

Speaking on SPORTS18’s daily sports news show ‘SPORTS OVER THE TOP’, Styris pointed out, "Well, as we know, India has a very strong T20 league as well. I think it's the ability to come together and play the style and brand of cricket that best suits your players. I thought that was the big trick that India missed at the last T20 World Cup as it took them about two games. The two losses they had before they just started to go after the opposition, impose themselves with the talent and skill that they've got. I want to see India do that in this Asia Cup. I want them to impose themselves on the other teams and l they've got the ability to do that, I think they've got the ability to squash everybody, including Pakistan, in this Asia Cup."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-is-not-out-of-form-the-issue-is-rashid-khan-shares-his-take-on-virat-kohlis-form-ahead-of-asia-cup-510038">'He is not out of form, the issue is...' - Rashid Khan shares his take on Virat Kohli's form ahead of Asia Cup</a>

Few words of caution

However, the New Zealander also mentioned that the Men in Blue shouldn't proceed into the marquee tournament with a middling attitude and feels that's where Babar Azam-led Pakistan have figured things out in a better way. "But if they're going to go into this with this middling attitude of how they want to play the game, then I don't think it's going to happen. I think that's where Pakistan have figured things out a little bit more. So yes, they've got a great T20 competition, but so does India. I don't think that's going to be a defining moment or factor in this match,”&nbsp;Styris added.

India are placed in Group A with Pakistan and Hong Kong. After the group stage, the Super Four round will be held before the summit clash, which takes place on September 11.

The stage is set for the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition, set to get underway in the UAE on August 27. India and Pakistan -- two of the strongest teams in the competition -- will start as favourites and many await the Indo-Pak clash, which will take place on August 28 (Sunday) in Dubai.

The stage is set for the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition, set to get underway in the UAE on August 27. India and Pakistan -- two of the strongest teams in the competition -- will start as favourites and many await the Indo-Pak clash, which will take place on August 28 (Sunday) in Dubai. Ahead of the commencement of the Asian championship, many former cricketers and experts of the game have made their predictions as to which team will walk away with the mega title. Former New Zealand all-rounder Scott Styris feels Rohit Sharma-led India -- the defending champions and seven-time winners -- have the ability to squash everybody, including Pakistan. Speaking on SPORTS18’s daily sports news show ‘SPORTS OVER THE TOP’, Styris pointed out, "Well, as we know, India has a very strong T20 league as well. I think it's the ability to come together and play the style and brand of cricket that best suits your players. I thought that was the big trick that India missed at the last T20 World Cup as it took them about two games. The two losses they had before they just started to go after the opposition, impose themselves with the talent and skill that they've got. I want to see India do that in this Asia Cup. I want them to impose themselves on the other teams and l they've got the ability to do that, I think they've got the ability to squash everybody, including Pakistan, in this Asia Cup." ALSO READ | 'He is not out of form, the issue is...' - Rashid Khan shares his take on Virat Kohli's form ahead of Asia Cup Few words of caution However, the New Zealander also mentioned that the Men in Blue shouldn't proceed into the marquee tournament with a middling attitude and feels that's where Babar Azam-led Pakistan have figured things out in a better way. "But if they're going to go into this with this middling attitude of how they want to play the game, then I don't think it's going to happen. I think that's where Pakistan have figured things out a little bit more. So yes, they've got a great T20 competition, but so does India. I don't think that's going to be a defining moment or factor in this match,” Styris added. India are placed in Group A with Pakistan and Hong Kong. After the group stage, the Super Four round will be held before the summit clash, which takes place on September 11.

'India have ability to squash everybody': Former NZ all-rounder feels Rohit & Co. favourites to win Asia Cup

Not a lot of days remain for the commencement of the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition, in the UAE. Ahead of the tournament, all eyes are on the India-Pakistan clash, which will be held on the second day, i.e. on August 28 at the iconic Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai.&nbsp;

The forthcoming Indo-Pak clash will be the first-ever meeting between the two Asian giants post the 2021 T20 World Cup, where Babar Azam &amp; Co. thrashed India by ten wickets at the same venue in Dubai. While Babar-led Men in Green will hope for a similar such script in the making this time around as well, Rohit Sharma's Team India will aim for redemption.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-2022-explained-how-india-might-take-on-pakistan-thrice-in-mega-event-509718">Asia Cup 2022: EXPLAINED! How India might take on Pakistan thrice in mega event</a>

Ahead of the much-awaited clash, superstars Virat Kohli and Babar met each other and were all smiles as they shook hands ahead at the iconic venue in Dubai. Here's the video shared by the BCCI which has now gone viral on social media platforms:

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Hello DUBAI 🇦🇪 
 
Hugs, smiles and warm-ups as we begin prep for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AsiaCup2022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AsiaCup2022</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AsiaCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AsiaCup</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> 🇮🇳 <a href="https://t.co/bVo2TWa1sz">pic.twitter.com/bVo2TWa1sz</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1562455671396012034?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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For the unversed, India and Pakistan are placed in Pool A, where they will also be joined by a team from the qualifying round. Post the group stage, the two sides are very likely to meet in the Super 4 and also in the summit clash. If India and Pakistan lock horns in the tournament finale, on September 11, it will be the first time that the two heavyweights will meet in the Asia Cup final.&nbsp;

The tournament is being played in the shortest format ahead of the 2022 T20 World Cup, to be held in Australia from October-November.

Not a lot of days remain for the commencement of the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition, in the UAE. Ahead of the tournament, all eyes are on the India-Pakistan clash, which will be held on the second day, i.

Not a lot of days remain for the commencement of the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition, in the UAE. Ahead of the tournament, all eyes are on the India-Pakistan clash, which will be held on the second day, i.e. on August 28 at the iconic Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. The forthcoming Indo-Pak clash will be the first-ever meeting between the two Asian giants post the 2021 T20 World Cup, where Babar Azam & Co. thrashed India by ten wickets at the same venue in Dubai. While Babar-led Men in Green will hope for a similar such script in the making this time around as well, Rohit Sharma's Team India will aim for redemption. ALSO READ | Asia Cup 2022: EXPLAINED! How India might take on Pakistan thrice in mega event Ahead of the much-awaited clash, superstars Virat Kohli and Babar met each other and were all smiles as they shook hands ahead at the iconic venue in Dubai. Here's the video shared by the BCCI which has now gone viral on social media platforms: Hello DUBAI 🇦🇪 Hugs, smiles and warm-ups as we begin prep for #AsiaCup2022 #AsiaCup | #TeamIndia 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/bVo2TWa1sz — BCCI (@BCCI) August 24, 2022 × For the unversed, India and Pakistan are placed in Pool A, where they will also be joined by a team from the qualifying round. Post the group stage, the two sides are very likely to meet in the Super 4 and also in the summit clash. If India and Pakistan lock horns in the tournament finale, on September 11, it will be the first time that the two heavyweights will meet in the Asia Cup final. The tournament is being played in the shortest format ahead of the 2022 T20 World Cup, to be held in Australia from October-November.

WATCH: Virat Kohli, Babar Azam exchange greetings before India-Pakistan showdown at Asia Cup

Team India will enter the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition as favourites. Given their red-hot form, India will be eyeing the title in the upcoming tournament which will be held in the UAE, where the last year's T20 World Cup was held.

Despite Men in Blue not succeeding in conditions on offer in the UAE during T20 WC, Rohit Sharma-led India have a strong squad this time around -- being better balanced and more aggressive with the bat&nbsp;-- to go the distance in the tournament. Ahead of the Asia Cup, which kicks off on August 27, former Indian batting coach Sanjay Bangar pointed out the 'small challenges' for skipper Rohit.&nbsp;

During an interaction on the&nbsp;Star Sports&nbsp;show 'Follow the Blues', former Indian cricketer Bangar revealed, "Rohit Sharma's biggest challenge in this Asia Cup I feel is some of the players who have not played regularly for the Indian team because of different-different reasons - it could be fitness or like Virat Kohli took a break, he is also making a comeback. KL Rahul had gotten injured."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-didnt-feel-like-i-was-batting-well-virat-kohli-reflects-on-england-tour-ahead-of-return-in-asia-cup-509799">I didn't feel like I was batting well: Virat Kohli reflects on England tour ahead of return in Asia Cup</a>

Further, Bangar highlighted that defending champions India will miss Jasprit Bumrah's services in the Asian championship.&nbsp;"Jasprit Bumrah is also not playing this tournament. So how he manages the bowling in Jasprit Bumrah's absence because Jasprit Bumrah is an extremely important element in India's bowling. So I feel these will be the small challenges in front of Rohit Sharma," he added.

Rohit-led India are strong title contenders for the Asia Cup. However, there are some issues as senior pros such as Virat and Rahul are returning at the highest level after some time. Moreover, Bumrah's absence -- due to a back injury -- can dent India's chances. In addition, head coach Rahul Dravid has tested positive, hence, Rohit might miss operating with him if the former captain doesn't travel to the UAE.

Team India will enter the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition as favourites. Given their red-hot form, India will be eyeing the title in the upcoming tournament which will be held in the UAE, where the last year's T20 World Cup was held.

Team India will enter the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition as favourites. Given their red-hot form, India will be eyeing the title in the upcoming tournament which will be held in the UAE, where the last year's T20 World Cup was held. Despite Men in Blue not succeeding in conditions on offer in the UAE during T20 WC, Rohit Sharma-led India have a strong squad this time around -- being better balanced and more aggressive with the bat -- to go the distance in the tournament. Ahead of the Asia Cup, which kicks off on August 27, former Indian batting coach Sanjay Bangar pointed out the 'small challenges' for skipper Rohit. During an interaction on the Star Sports show 'Follow the Blues', former Indian cricketer Bangar revealed, "Rohit Sharma's biggest challenge in this Asia Cup I feel is some of the players who have not played regularly for the Indian team because of different-different reasons - it could be fitness or like Virat Kohli took a break, he is also making a comeback. KL Rahul had gotten injured." ALSO READ | I didn't feel like I was batting well: Virat Kohli reflects on England tour ahead of return in Asia Cup Further, Bangar highlighted that defending champions India will miss Jasprit Bumrah's services in the Asian championship. "Jasprit Bumrah is also not playing this tournament. So how he manages the bowling in Jasprit Bumrah's absence because Jasprit Bumrah is an extremely important element in India's bowling. So I feel these will be the small challenges in front of Rohit Sharma," he added. Rohit-led India are strong title contenders for the Asia Cup. However, there are some issues as senior pros such as Virat and Rahul are returning at the highest level after some time. Moreover, Bumrah's absence -- due to a back injury -- can dent India's chances. In addition, head coach Rahul Dravid has tested positive, hence, Rohit might miss operating with him if the former captain doesn't travel to the UAE.

Sanjay Bangar points out 'small challenges' infront of Rohit Sharma ahead of Team India's Asia Cup campaign

Recently, Virat Kohli completed 1,000 days since his last international ton. Kohli's last triple-figure score came in late 2019. Back then, no one knew a word about Covid-19. Kohli was India's all-format skipper. India still remained unbeaten versus Pakistan in World Cup history. IPL remained an eight-team tournament. MS Dhoni hadn't announced international retirement.

In a nutshell, it has been very long since Kohli broke his international century drought. To date, his dismal run surprises many -- even though it has now lasted&nbsp;for nearly three years. While he is getting vital scores under his belt at regular intervals (although it has evaded him since the beginning of IPL 2022 as well), cricket fans remain stunned seeing someone struggle for big scores who had made it a habit of performing consistently across formats.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-2022-explained-how-india-might-take-on-pakistan-thrice-in-mega-event-509718">Asia Cup 2022: EXPLAINED! How India might take on Pakistan thrice in mega event</a>

Such was Kohli's knack for scoring centuries that Australia's current white-ball captain Aaron Finch had made heads turn applauding King Kohli's heroics with a heartfelt tweet in 2016. He wrote, "Dear Virat Kohli, Can you please stop making batting look so easy, it's embarrassing for most other batters in the world. Thanks"

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Dear Virat Kohli, 
 
Can you please stop making batting look so easy, it's embarrassing for most other batters in the world. 
 
Thanks 
😂😂😂
— Aaron Finch (@AaronFinch5) <a href="https://twitter.com/AaronFinch5/status/733190466070421504?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 19, 2016</a></blockquote>
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Nonetheless, the harsh reality at present is that the 33-year-old Kohli is now struggling for big scores. As he gears up for his international return -- post the England tour -- in the forthcoming&nbsp;Asia Cup 2022, here's reliving Kohli's career-defining 183 that came in the tournament's 2012 edition&nbsp;versus Pakistan:

On March 18 2012, MS Dhoni-led India faced Mishab-ul-Haq's Pakistan in the Asia Cup, held in the 50-over format. Indian bowlers were in for a leather hunt on a batting track as Pakistani openers Nasir Jamshed and Mohammad Hafeez's respective tons, and their 224-run opening stand, along with Younis Khan's 34-ball 52 propelled Men in Green to 329/6, after they opted to bat first. Praveen Kumar and Ashok Dinda accounted for two wickets each but R Ashwin remained economical, ending with 10-0-56-1.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/run-machine-pujara-surpasses-virat-kohli-babar-azam-in-elite-list-with-impressive-ton-for-sussex-509549">Run-machine Pujara surpasses Virat Kohli, Babar Azam in elite list with impressive ton for Sussex</a>

In reply, India lost Gautam Gambhir -- who scored a ton in the previous game versus Sri Lanka -- for a 2-ball duck. Kohli, who also scored a century in the Lanka face-off, came at No. 3. At first, Sachin Tendulkar played the aggressor's role, using his experience to keep the scoreboard ticking. He fell for a well-compiled 48-ball 52 (his last international inning) before the Kohli show resumed. At 133-2, Kohli was joined by current Indian captain Rohit Sharma as the duo showed their class and maturity to keep India moving forward in the tall run-chase.

Rohit-Kohli found the gaps, ran well between wickets, picked their bowlers smartly to take India ahead. Kohli kept getting better with each over and raced to his career-best 183 (remains his highest ODI score to date). His innings was laced with 22 fours and two sixes, at a whopping strike rate of 123.65. Courtesy of his impressive knock, India completed the run-chase with six wickets in hand, along with 13 balls to spare. Rohit also played his part with a cautious 83-ball 68. The two were involved in an entertaining 168-run knock as Dhoni &amp; Co. defeated Pakistan with ease.

Kohli's 183 remains the highest score by a batter in Asia Cup history. So far, he has 613 runs from 11 matches in the tournament, at a staggering average of 61.30 including three tons and a solitary half-century. Will King Kohli rediscover his form in the forthcoming Asia Cup, against one of his favourite opponents?

Well, not many days remain for us to know all the answers with India taking&nbsp;on Pakistan on August 28, in Dubai.

Recently, Virat Kohli completed 1,000 days since his last international ton. Kohli's last triple-figure score came in late 2019. Back then, no one knew a word about Covid-19.

Recently, Virat Kohli completed 1,000 days since his last international ton. Kohli's last triple-figure score came in late 2019. Back then, no one knew a word about Covid-19. Kohli was India's all-format skipper. India still remained unbeaten versus Pakistan in World Cup history. IPL remained an eight-team tournament. MS Dhoni hadn't announced international retirement. In a nutshell, it has been very long since Kohli broke his international century drought. To date, his dismal run surprises many -- even though it has now lasted for nearly three years. While he is getting vital scores under his belt at regular intervals (although it has evaded him since the beginning of IPL 2022 as well), cricket fans remain stunned seeing someone struggle for big scores who had made it a habit of performing consistently across formats. ALSO READ | Asia Cup 2022: EXPLAINED! How India might take on Pakistan thrice in mega event Such was Kohli's knack for scoring centuries that Australia's current white-ball captain Aaron Finch had made heads turn applauding King Kohli's heroics with a heartfelt tweet in 2016. He wrote, "Dear Virat Kohli, Can you please stop making batting look so easy, it's embarrassing for most other batters in the world. Thanks" Dear Virat Kohli, Can you please stop making batting look so easy, it's embarrassing for most other batters in the world. Thanks 😂😂😂 — Aaron Finch (@AaronFinch5) May 19, 2016 × Nonetheless, the harsh reality at present is that the 33-year-old Kohli is now struggling for big scores. As he gears up for his international return -- post the England tour -- in the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022, here's reliving Kohli's career-defining 183 that came in the tournament's 2012 edition versus Pakistan: On March 18 2012, MS Dhoni-led India faced Mishab-ul-Haq's Pakistan in the Asia Cup, held in the 50-over format. Indian bowlers were in for a leather hunt on a batting track as Pakistani openers Nasir Jamshed and Mohammad Hafeez's respective tons, and their 224-run opening stand, along with Younis Khan's 34-ball 52 propelled Men in Green to 329/6, after they opted to bat first. Praveen Kumar and Ashok Dinda accounted for two wickets each but R Ashwin remained economical, ending with 10-0-56-1. ALSO READ | Run-machine Pujara surpasses Virat Kohli, Babar Azam in elite list with impressive ton for Sussex In reply, India lost Gautam Gambhir -- who scored a ton in the previous game versus Sri Lanka -- for a 2-ball duck. Kohli, who also scored a century in the Lanka face-off, came at No. 3. At first, Sachin Tendulkar played the aggressor's role, using his experience to keep the scoreboard ticking. He fell for a well-compiled 48-ball 52 (his last international inning) before the Kohli show resumed. At 133-2, Kohli was joined by current Indian captain Rohit Sharma as the duo showed their class and maturity to keep India moving forward in the tall run-chase. Rohit-Kohli found the gaps, ran well between wickets, picked their bowlers smartly to take India ahead. Kohli kept getting better with each over and raced to his career-best 183 (remains his highest ODI score to date). His innings was laced with 22 fours and two sixes, at a whopping strike rate of 123.65. Courtesy of his impressive knock, India completed the run-chase with six wickets in hand, along with 13 balls to spare. Rohit also played his part with a cautious 83-ball 68. The two were involved in an entertaining 168-run knock as Dhoni & Co. defeated Pakistan with ease. Kohli's 183 remains the highest score by a batter in Asia Cup history. So far, he has 613 runs from 11 matches in the tournament, at a staggering average of 61.30 including three tons and a solitary half-century. Will King Kohli rediscover his form in the forthcoming Asia Cup, against one of his favourite opponents? Well, not many days remain for us to know all the answers with India taking on Pakistan on August 28, in Dubai.

Asia Cup: Reminiscing Virat Kohli's career-defining 183 versus Pakistan in 2012 edition

The Indian cricket team have embraced fresh aggresisve approach with the willow in T20Is and it has been working wonders for the Men in Bue as they gear up for the T20 World Cup 2022 in two months time. India are yet to lose a T20I series under Rohit Sharma's captaincy and will be looking to continue their magnificent run in the upcoming Asia Cup 2022 later this month.

Under Rohit, India have showcased intent right from the word go and have taken the attack to the opposition while batting. India have also used a number of power-hitters in their line-up trying to change the way the team used to play in the shortest format traditionally.

While many have questioned India's aggressive approach, former India head coach Ravi Shastri wants Rohit &amp; Co. to continue playing the way they have in the ast 6-7 months. Shastri even went on to admit the Indian top order was a 'bit timid' during his tenure as head coach and explained why India's new-found intent is the way forward.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-2022-explained-how-india-might-take-on-pakistan-thrice-in-mega-event-509718">Asia Cup 2022 - EXPLAINED! How India might take on Pakistan thrice in mega event</a>

"They should not change the approach (they have shown of late). Even when I was coach we discussed we were a bit timid at the top considering the players we had down the order," Shastri said during a discussion on Star Sports.

"It is the right approach. You will lose a few games in between but if you start winning with this approach you can take that confidence in big games and use the same tactics," he explained.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-keeps-vvs-laxman-on-standby-for-asia-cup-2022-after-head-coach-rahul-dravid-tests-positive-report-509648">BCCI keeps Laxman on standby for Asia Cup 2022 after head coach Dravid tests positive - Report</a>

Under Shastri, India enjoyed tremendous success acros formats in bilaterals but major ICC trophies eluded the team. India dominated in Tests and ODIs but failed to deliver on the big stage as the team couldn't bring an end to their ICC trophy drought since 2013 despite reaching close on a few ocassions.

India will be hopeful of lifting their first major ICC trophy in 8 years when they head to the T20 World Cup 2022 Down Under. The Men in Blue will take part in Asia Cup 2022 later this month which will serve as perfect preparation for the World Cup.

The Indian cricket team have embraced fresh aggresisve approach with the willow in T20Is and it has been working wonders for the Men in Bue as they gear up for the T20 World Cup 2022 in two months time.

The Indian cricket team have embraced fresh aggresisve approach with the willow in T20Is and it has been working wonders for the Men in Bue as they gear up for the T20 World Cup 2022 in two months time. India are yet to lose a T20I series under Rohit Sharma's captaincy and will be looking to continue their magnificent run in the upcoming Asia Cup 2022 later this month. Under Rohit, India have showcased intent right from the word go and have taken the attack to the opposition while batting. India have also used a number of power-hitters in their line-up trying to change the way the team used to play in the shortest format traditionally. While many have questioned India's aggressive approach, former India head coach Ravi Shastri wants Rohit & Co. to continue playing the way they have in the ast 6-7 months. Shastri even went on to admit the Indian top order was a 'bit timid' during his tenure as head coach and explained why India's new-found intent is the way forward. Also Read: Asia Cup 2022 - EXPLAINED! How India might take on Pakistan thrice in mega event "They should not change the approach (they have shown of late). Even when I was coach we discussed we were a bit timid at the top considering the players we had down the order," Shastri said during a discussion on Star Sports. "It is the right approach. You will lose a few games in between but if you start winning with this approach you can take that confidence in big games and use the same tactics," he explained. Also Read: BCCI keeps Laxman on standby for Asia Cup 2022 after head coach Dravid tests positive - Report Under Shastri, India enjoyed tremendous success acros formats in bilaterals but major ICC trophies eluded the team. India dominated in Tests and ODIs but failed to deliver on the big stage as the team couldn't bring an end to their ICC trophy drought since 2013 despite reaching close on a few ocassions. India will be hopeful of lifting their first major ICC trophy in 8 years when they head to the T20 World Cup 2022 Down Under. The Men in Blue will take part in Asia Cup 2022 later this month which will serve as perfect preparation for the World Cup.

'We were bit timid at the top': Ravi Shastri explains why India's aggressive approach in T20Is is way forward

The Asia Cup 2022 edition is about to kick off on August 27 (Saturday). Undoubtedly, the hype regarding the forthcoming tournament is very high given that two Asian giants India and Pakistan are set to lock horns with each other in their respective tournament-openers on August 28, at the iconic Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai.

The rivalry between the two senior teams will resume once again, following their last face-off in the 2021 T20 World Cup. Interestingly, the last clash between both sides also took place at the same venue, in Dubai, where Babar Azam &amp; Co. demolished India by ten wickets to break their World Cup jinx versus their neighbouring country. Given the Asia Cup is being held in the shortest format as a dress rehearsal for the 2022 T20 World Cup, to be held in Australia from October-November, Rohit Sharma-led India and the Men in Green will leave no stone unturned to emerge on top in the Asian championship.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-vs-babar-azam-wasim-akram-joins-best-batsman-debate-ahead-of-india-pakistan-asia-cup-clash-509517">Virat Kohli vs Babar Azam: Wasim Akram joins 'best batsman' debate ahead of India-Pakistan Asia Cup clash</a>

While India and Pakistan are placed in the same group (Pool A), they will meet on August 28. However, there's a catch. For the unversed, cricket fans are in for a treat as the two heavyweights are likely to meet each other as many as three times overall in the 2022 edition.

As India and Pakistan are expected to run past the other qualifying team -- who will join them in Pool A -- and enter the Super 4, they are likely to be pitted against each other on September 4 (Sunday). As Rohit-led Men in Blue and Pakistan are two of the strongest teams and, thus, they are expected to top the Super 4 and face-off in the tournament finale as well, i.e. on September 11.

Having said that, one cannot write off competitive and ever-improving teams such as Afghanistan, Shakib Al Hasan-led Bangladesh and Dasun Shanaka's Sri Lanka. If a lot of upsets take place, the finalists can appear to be different than the ones many expect at this point.&nbsp;

India and Pakistan have never played in the Asia Cup final so far. Will the script change this time around? Only time will tell...

The Asia Cup 2022 edition is about to kick off on August 27 (Saturday). Undoubtedly, the hype regarding the forthcoming tournament is very high given that two Asian giants India and Pakistan are set to lock horns with each other in their respective tournament-openers on August 28, at the iconic Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai.

The Asia Cup 2022 edition is about to kick off on August 27 (Saturday). Undoubtedly, the hype regarding the forthcoming tournament is very high given that two Asian giants India and Pakistan are set to lock horns with each other in their respective tournament-openers on August 28, at the iconic Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. The rivalry between the two senior teams will resume once again, following their last face-off in the 2021 T20 World Cup. Interestingly, the last clash between both sides also took place at the same venue, in Dubai, where Babar Azam & Co. demolished India by ten wickets to break their World Cup jinx versus their neighbouring country. Given the Asia Cup is being held in the shortest format as a dress rehearsal for the 2022 T20 World Cup, to be held in Australia from October-November, Rohit Sharma-led India and the Men in Green will leave no stone unturned to emerge on top in the Asian championship. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli vs Babar Azam: Wasim Akram joins 'best batsman' debate ahead of India-Pakistan Asia Cup clash While India and Pakistan are placed in the same group (Pool A), they will meet on August 28. However, there's a catch. For the unversed, cricket fans are in for a treat as the two heavyweights are likely to meet each other as many as three times overall in the 2022 edition. As India and Pakistan are expected to run past the other qualifying team -- who will join them in Pool A -- and enter the Super 4, they are likely to be pitted against each other on September 4 (Sunday). As Rohit-led Men in Blue and Pakistan are two of the strongest teams and, thus, they are expected to top the Super 4 and face-off in the tournament finale as well, i.e. on September 11. Having said that, one cannot write off competitive and ever-improving teams such as Afghanistan, Shakib Al Hasan-led Bangladesh and Dasun Shanaka's Sri Lanka. If a lot of upsets take place, the finalists can appear to be different than the ones many expect at this point. India and Pakistan have never played in the Asia Cup final so far. Will the script change this time around? Only time will tell...

Asia Cup 2022: EXPLAINED! How India might take on Pakistan thrice in mega event

For long, the likes of Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and KL Rahul have been the backbone of the Indian batting line-up, especially in the white-ball formats. The trio's consistency has been second to none and have been vital to India's success. Recently, former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh was in awe of Shubman Gill -- who has been the Player-of-the-Series in India's last two ODI series -- after his recent heroics in the just-concluded Zimbabwe series&nbsp;and even compared him with Rohit, KL and Kohli.&nbsp;

Speaking to the Times of India after the conclusion of the India-Zimbabwe ODIs, in the African nation,&nbsp;Harbhajan was impressed with Gill's&nbsp;technique&nbsp;and shot selection and stated that as a batsman he is definitely up with the&nbsp;Virat and Rohit -- two of India's finest batters in the modern era. In addition, he picked him as a potential captain.

“He’s a sorted batsman, who has a sound technique and very good shot selection. In terms of batsmanship, I would bracket him with the likes of Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and KL Rahul in the current Indian team. You love to watch them bat." He added, "For me, he’s a future India captain. He’s got the game, and he’ll learn about the captaincy. So, why not?."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mouths-will-be-shut-if-virat-kohli-gets-a-fifty-in-1st-game-against-pakistan-at-asia-cup-ravi-shastri-509425">Mouths will be shut if Virat Kohli gets a fifty in 1st game against Pakistan at Asia Cup: Ravi Shastri</a>

Gill missed out on his maiden international century when he was stranded on 98 not out during the third and final ODI versus hosts West Indies during the Men in Blue's tour of the Caribbean Island in July-August. He ended with the Player-of-the-Series versus the Windies and returned with the same prize once again during the KL Rahul-led Indian team's three-match ODI series versus hosts Zimbabwe, which ended on Monday (August 22). However, this time around, Gill also managed to score his maiden international ton during the third ODI, where he returned with a stunning 97-ball 130.&nbsp;

Gill's consistency in the ODI format is a pleasing sign for Rohit-led Team India. Given he has already played some match-winning knocks in Tests, his rise in the shorter format keeps India in good stead ahead of next year's ODI World Cup at home.&nbsp;

For long, the likes of Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and KL Rahul have been the backbone of the Indian batting line-up, especially in the white-ball formats. The trio's consistency has been second to none and have been vital to India's success.

For long, the likes of Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and KL Rahul have been the backbone of the Indian batting line-up, especially in the white-ball formats. The trio's consistency has been second to none and have been vital to India's success. Recently, former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh was in awe of Shubman Gill -- who has been the Player-of-the-Series in India's last two ODI series -- after his recent heroics in the just-concluded Zimbabwe series and even compared him with Rohit, KL and Kohli. Speaking to the Times of India after the conclusion of the India-Zimbabwe ODIs, in the African nation, Harbhajan was impressed with Gill's technique and shot selection and stated that as a batsman he is definitely up with the Virat and Rohit -- two of India's finest batters in the modern era. In addition, he picked him as a potential captain. “He’s a sorted batsman, who has a sound technique and very good shot selection. In terms of batsmanship, I would bracket him with the likes of Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and KL Rahul in the current Indian team. You love to watch them bat." He added, "For me, he’s a future India captain. He’s got the game, and he’ll learn about the captaincy. So, why not?." ALSO READ | Mouths will be shut if Virat Kohli gets a fifty in 1st game against Pakistan at Asia Cup: Ravi Shastri Gill missed out on his maiden international century when he was stranded on 98 not out during the third and final ODI versus hosts West Indies during the Men in Blue's tour of the Caribbean Island in July-August. He ended with the Player-of-the-Series versus the Windies and returned with the same prize once again during the KL Rahul-led Indian team's three-match ODI series versus hosts Zimbabwe, which ended on Monday (August 22). However, this time around, Gill also managed to score his maiden international ton during the third ODI, where he returned with a stunning 97-ball 130. Gill's consistency in the ODI format is a pleasing sign for Rohit-led Team India. Given he has already played some match-winning knocks in Tests, his rise in the shorter format keeps India in good stead ahead of next year's ODI World Cup at home.

Would bracket him with Rohit, Kohli & Rahul in Team India: Harbhajan lauds Shubman Gill after Zimbabwe ODIs

Rohit Sharma-led Team India is gearing up for the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition, which will be held in the UAE from August 27-September 11. Ahead of the upcoming tournament, which will be held in the shortest format as a dress rehearsal for the T20 World Cup, India was dealt with a massive blow with pacer Jasprit Bumrah being ruled out due to a back injury.&nbsp;

With no Bumrah, the onus will fall upon experienced campaigner Bhuvneshwar Kumar. The other pace options for India are Arshdeep Singh, Avesh Khan and all-rounder Hardik Pandya. Harshal Patel is also out of action due to injury. However, former batting coach Sanjay Bangar feels Bumrah won't be missed that in the death overs but his presence will be felt in the middle overs.&nbsp;

"Arshdeep is a good option who bowls good yorkers, has a lot of control and an excellent temperament to bowl in the death overs. So he (Bumrah) will not be missed that much in the death overs but the Indian team will definitely feel his absence in the middle overs," said Bangar on&nbsp;Star Sports&nbsp;show 'Follow the Blues'.

“Bhuvneshwar Kumar will have to take greater responsibility and that means bowling two overs at the start and then again bowling two overs in the last four overs, which is his strength. I feel the one over where the team uses Bumrah in the middle overs, there his absence will definitely be felt,” added Bangar.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shahid-afridi-responds-to-fans-query-on-virat-kohlis-future-ahead-of-indias-asia-cup-opener-vs-pakistan-509178">Shahid Afridi responds to fan's query on Virat Kohli's future ahead of India's Asia Cup opener vs Pakistan</a>

India will start their campaign versus Babar Azam-led Pakistan on August 28 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai -- where they were hammered by the Men in Green in their last face-off during the 2021 T20 World Cup.

Squad:&nbsp;Rohit Sharma (c), KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Dinesh Karthik, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, R. Ashwin, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Arshdeep Singh, Ravi Bishnoi, Avesh Khan, Deepak Hooda, Yuzvendra Chahal

Stand-by players:&nbsp;Shreyas Iyer, Axar Patel and Deepak Chahar have been named as standbys.

Rohit Sharma-led Team India is gearing up for the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition, which will be held in the UAE from August 27-September 11. Ahead of the upcoming tournament, which will be held in the shortest format as a dress rehearsal for the T20 World Cup, India was dealt with a massive blow with pacer Jasprit Bumrah being ruled out due to a back injury.

Rohit Sharma-led Team India is gearing up for the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition, which will be held in the UAE from August 27-September 11. Ahead of the upcoming tournament, which will be held in the shortest format as a dress rehearsal for the T20 World Cup, India was dealt with a massive blow with pacer Jasprit Bumrah being ruled out due to a back injury. With no Bumrah, the onus will fall upon experienced campaigner Bhuvneshwar Kumar. The other pace options for India are Arshdeep Singh, Avesh Khan and all-rounder Hardik Pandya. Harshal Patel is also out of action due to injury. However, former batting coach Sanjay Bangar feels Bumrah won't be missed that in the death overs but his presence will be felt in the middle overs. "Arshdeep is a good option who bowls good yorkers, has a lot of control and an excellent temperament to bowl in the death overs. So he (Bumrah) will not be missed that much in the death overs but the Indian team will definitely feel his absence in the middle overs," said Bangar on Star Sports show 'Follow the Blues'. “Bhuvneshwar Kumar will have to take greater responsibility and that means bowling two overs at the start and then again bowling two overs in the last four overs, which is his strength. I feel the one over where the team uses Bumrah in the middle overs, there his absence will definitely be felt,” added Bangar. ALSO READ | Shahid Afridi responds to fan's query on Virat Kohli's future ahead of India's Asia Cup opener vs Pakistan India will start their campaign versus Babar Azam-led Pakistan on August 28 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai -- where they were hammered by the Men in Green in their last face-off during the 2021 T20 World Cup. Squad: Rohit Sharma (c), KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Dinesh Karthik, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, R. Ashwin, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Arshdeep Singh, Ravi Bishnoi, Avesh Khan, Deepak Hooda, Yuzvendra Chahal Stand-by players: Shreyas Iyer, Axar Patel and Deepak Chahar have been named as standbys.

Asia Cup: Former Indian batting coach explains why Jasprit Bumrah won't be missed much by Team India

Rohit Sharma is all set to face his next big test as Team India captain in the Asia Cup 2022 starting from August 27-September 11. The Hitman has an extraordinary record as T20I captain, winning 29 of the 35 matches he`s been in charge.

Since being handed the captain`s role, Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue have dominated teams across the T20I format and gained many plaudits for their performances.

With the countdown for the Asia Cup 2022 and the Greatest Rivalry between India and Pakistan on August 28 underway, the stakes will be higher than ever for the Hitman and the team to become the Champions of Asia for the eighth time.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-were-maybe-a-touch-timid-brendon-mccullum-reacts-after-south-africa-thrash-england-in-1st-test-508631" hreflang="en">'We were maybe a touch timid': Brendon McCullum reacts after South Africa thrash England in 1st Test</a>

Speaking on Star Sports show `Follow The Blues`, Team India captain Rohit Sharma detailed his captaincy mantra and how he and the squad handle pressure before marquee tournaments such as the Asia Cup 2022, "For me as a captain, it is very important that we create an environment for the players where they don`t feel that it`s a very high-pressure environment.

"We try and create (an environment) for the guys to come out in this team and try to have fun and enjoy each other`s company. Because I strongly feel that it`s important not to allow the pressure to creep in too much. When you`re playing, obviously, there will be pressure because when you are holding the ball in your hand, there is pressure on you as a bowler.

"When you`re batting in the middle, there is pressure, and that is what you have to handle on your own. The captain or coach or anyone, no one can do anything about it, but yourself. So, I think those aspects - Of course, it is your responsibility, but there are so many other factors that come into play and I feel I need to take care of it."

Rohit further spoke about his role as captain to build a rapport with every individual in the team and assist every individual to improve their performances, especially while going through rough patches.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ee-just-think-of-his-centuries-yuzvendra-chahal-comes-to-virat-kohlis-defence-amid-his-lean-patch-508627" hreflang="en">'We just think of his centuries': Yuzvendra Chahal comes to Virat Kohli's defence amid his lean patch</a>

He said, "When you know certain players are going through tough times, we try to give them a clear understanding of what`s happening. Making him understand what we expect from him, his role in this team, and all those kinds of things. So, I don`t go with any particular mantra when I play the game.

"Obviously, for me it`s just to quickly adapt to certain individuals and then understand what they need, what are their strong points, where they are weak, try and you know give them feedback and work with them; be very specific in what the team is expecting from that individual.

"That is where the individual can blossom because when we give them the clarity of what the team is expecting from you, I think he will be able to work towards that direction and he can work on his game in many ways and then improve his game as well. So, I think those are the things that I always keep in mind."

The Asia Cup 2022 will be played between August 27 to September 11 and will be shown on the Star Sports network.

Rohit Sharma is all set to face his next big test as Team India captain in the Asia Cup 2022 starting from August 27-September 11. The Hitman has an extraordinary record as T20I captain, winning 29 of the 35 matches he`s been in charge.

Rohit Sharma is all set to face his next big test as Team India captain in the Asia Cup 2022 starting from August 27-September 11. The Hitman has an extraordinary record as T20I captain, winning 29 of the 35 matches he`s been in charge. Since being handed the captain`s role, Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue have dominated teams across the T20I format and gained many plaudits for their performances. With the countdown for the Asia Cup 2022 and the Greatest Rivalry between India and Pakistan on August 28 underway, the stakes will be higher than ever for the Hitman and the team to become the Champions of Asia for the eighth time. ALSO READ: 'We were maybe a touch timid': Brendon McCullum reacts after South Africa thrash England in 1st Test Speaking on Star Sports show `Follow The Blues`, Team India captain Rohit Sharma detailed his captaincy mantra and how he and the squad handle pressure before marquee tournaments such as the Asia Cup 2022, "For me as a captain, it is very important that we create an environment for the players where they don`t feel that it`s a very high-pressure environment. "We try and create (an environment) for the guys to come out in this team and try to have fun and enjoy each other`s company. Because I strongly feel that it`s important not to allow the pressure to creep in too much. When you`re playing, obviously, there will be pressure because when you are holding the ball in your hand, there is pressure on you as a bowler. "When you`re batting in the middle, there is pressure, and that is what you have to handle on your own. The captain or coach or anyone, no one can do anything about it, but yourself. So, I think those aspects - Of course, it is your responsibility, but there are so many other factors that come into play and I feel I need to take care of it." Rohit further spoke about his role as captain to build a rapport with every individual in the team and assist every individual to improve their performances, especially while going through rough patches. ALSO READ: 'We just think of his centuries': Yuzvendra Chahal comes to Virat Kohli's defence amid his lean patch He said, "When you know certain players are going through tough times, we try to give them a clear understanding of what`s happening. Making him understand what we expect from him, his role in this team, and all those kinds of things. So, I don`t go with any particular mantra when I play the game. "Obviously, for me it`s just to quickly adapt to certain individuals and then understand what they need, what are their strong points, where they are weak, try and you know give them feedback and work with them; be very specific in what the team is expecting from that individual. "That is where the individual can blossom because when we give them the clarity of what the team is expecting from you, I think he will be able to work towards that direction and he can work on his game in many ways and then improve his game as well. So, I think those are the things that I always keep in mind." The Asia Cup 2022 will be played between August 27 to September 11 and will be shown on the Star Sports network.

Rohit Sharma believes creating a no-pressure environment is key ahead of Asia Cup clash against Pakistan

The Indian cricket team's skipper Rohit Sharma recently offered fans some insight into how he ensures efficiency within the team and his captaincy by keeping matters absolutely simple. Sharma, who has enjoyed an impeccable run at the helm of the Indian team, revealed that he has primarily focussed on offering his players and teammates the freedom that they need to flourish.

He further admitted that ever since he took over the leadership of the team from Virat Kohli, he prioritised the practice of&nbsp;specifying roles and responsibilities for everyone, making the entire process extremely structured and systematic.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/was-looking-for-an-opportunity-deepak-chahar-looks-back-at-his-stunning-performance-against-zimbabwe-508437" hreflang="en">'Was looking for an opportunity'- Deepak Chahar looks back at his stunning performance against Zimbabwe</a>

Sharma broke down his leadership technique in a video compilation that was recently shared by Star Sports on Twitter. In the video, he admitted that he emulated the same strategy that he used in the uber-popular IPL franchise, Mumbai Indians, which bolstered their charge to lay claim to the mantle of the most successful IPL team in the history of the league.&nbsp;

"What I have done over the years with the Mumbai Indians franchise and also the time that I have led India, it's just keeping it very-very simple and not complicate things too much. Making sure that... Whatever I have spoken of before about giving the guys that freedom. Making them understand what their role is. That is what I will be expecting of myself, that's what I want to do for the team, for the players to make sure there is no confusion," asserted Sharma.

"That (confusion) is the last thing you want, especially when you are playing a high-profile tournament. We want to make sure all of that is taken care of and that's where my role becomes very, very crucial along with Rahul (Dravid) bhai. We will try and keep our focus on that. But for me, It's very simple. I try and keep things literally very, very simple," he added.

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Step 1⃣ to keep us Believing in 💙 - 𝗞𝗲𝗲𝗽 𝗶𝘁 𝘀𝗶𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗲! 😉 
 
Hear more about <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRo45?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImRo45</a>'s mantras to a successful captaincy in an exclusive interview on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FollowTheBlues?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FollowTheBlues</a>. 
 
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/depression-is-too-big-a-term-virat-kohlis-management-clarify-his-comments-about-his-mental-health-issue-508355" hreflang="en">'Depression is too big a term'- Virat Kohli's management clarify his comments about his mental health issue</a>

Rohit Sharma, like many other senior players on the Indian team's roster, has been offered the opportunity to rest up as the Men in Blue compete against Zimbabwe in a three-match ODI series. However, his next assignment is to lead the team's charge in the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022.

Interestingly, India will kick off their campaign in the continental tournament with a match against arch-nemeses Pakistan. The action is set to unfold at the Dubai International Stadium on August 28.

The Indian cricket team's skipper Rohit Sharma recently offered fans some insight into how he ensures efficiency within the team and his captaincy by keeping matters absolutely simple.

The Indian cricket team's skipper Rohit Sharma recently offered fans some insight into how he ensures efficiency within the team and his captaincy by keeping matters absolutely simple. Sharma, who has enjoyed an impeccable run at the helm of the Indian team, revealed that he has primarily focussed on offering his players and teammates the freedom that they need to flourish. He further admitted that ever since he took over the leadership of the team from Virat Kohli, he prioritised the practice of specifying roles and responsibilities for everyone, making the entire process extremely structured and systematic. ALSO READ: 'Was looking for an opportunity'- Deepak Chahar looks back at his stunning performance against Zimbabwe Sharma broke down his leadership technique in a video compilation that was recently shared by Star Sports on Twitter. In the video, he admitted that he emulated the same strategy that he used in the uber-popular IPL franchise, Mumbai Indians, which bolstered their charge to lay claim to the mantle of the most successful IPL team in the history of the league. "What I have done over the years with the Mumbai Indians franchise and also the time that I have led India, it's just keeping it very-very simple and not complicate things too much. Making sure that... Whatever I have spoken of before about giving the guys that freedom. Making them understand what their role is. That is what I will be expecting of myself, that's what I want to do for the team, for the players to make sure there is no confusion," asserted Sharma. "That (confusion) is the last thing you want, especially when you are playing a high-profile tournament. We want to make sure all of that is taken care of and that's where my role becomes very, very crucial along with Rahul (Dravid) bhai. We will try and keep our focus on that. But for me, It's very simple. I try and keep things literally very, very simple," he added. Step 1⃣ to keep us Believing in 💙 - 𝗞𝗲𝗲𝗽 𝗶𝘁 𝘀𝗶𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗲! 😉 Hear more about @ImRo45's mantras to a successful captaincy in an exclusive interview on #FollowTheBlues. Every Sunday, 9 AM | Star Sports Network#BelieveInBlue #TeamIndia pic.twitter.com/ZAPM11IUwr — Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) August 19, 2022 × ALSO READ: 'Depression is too big a term'- Virat Kohli's management clarify his comments about his mental health issue Rohit Sharma, like many other senior players on the Indian team's roster, has been offered the opportunity to rest up as the Men in Blue compete against Zimbabwe in a three-match ODI series. However, his next assignment is to lead the team's charge in the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022. Interestingly, India will kick off their campaign in the continental tournament with a match against arch-nemeses Pakistan. The action is set to unfold at the Dubai International Stadium on August 28.

Rohit Sharma breaks down the key to his successful captaincy, believes it is simplicity

Rohit Sharma, who is set to lead India's charge in the 2022 T20 World Cup, recently offered his take on the importance of depth in the squad, as the Men in Blue&nbsp;set&nbsp;off on a heavily packed season of international cricket.

He admitted that placing all their faith in a handful of battle-tested veterans of the sport like Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami and more would be a mistake that could exact a heavy toll on&nbsp;the team's prospects of emerging triumphant at the end of the season.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-young-fan-hilariously-stuns-kl-rahul-by-claiming-to-hel-with-school-507994" hreflang="en">Watch: Young fan hilariously stuns KL Rahul by claiming 'to he*l with school'</a>

In a recent interaction with the media, Rohit Sharma offered his two cents on why it is essential to hone young talent in the team.&nbsp;"(Jasprit) Bumrah, (Mohammed) Shami and all these guys will not be with the Indian team forever, so you have to try and prepare the other guys.

"Myself and Rahul (Dravid) bhai spoke about how we are going to create our bench strength because that's going to be very crucial considering the amount of cricket we play, considering the injury factors and everything."

He subsequently revealed why youngsters like Shahbaz Ahmed and Rahul Tripathi were being given more opportunities to display their talents on the big stage. "The guys are getting exposure and our aim is to create bench strength, so that's why in Zimbabwe, there are a lot of players who are touring for the first time - be it Shahbaz Ahmed, Rahul Tripathi - and it is a good exposure.

"They are really talented and will grab the opportunity. It's about getting the confidence at this stage, which I am sure they will learn. Playing for the country matters the most."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-playing-differently-since-the-last-time-we-played-against-pakistan-rohit-sharma-ahead-of-asia-cup-clash-507868" hreflang="en">India playing differently since the last time we played against Pakistan: Rohit Sharma ahead of Asia Cup clash</a>

Considering how India has been in an ICC&nbsp;title drought since 2013, the team is seemingly hard at work, competing in various international tournaments to prepare themselves for the challenge that awaits them. The Indian contingents competing in said tournaments feature a number of fresh-faced players, who hope to earn some valuable experience to bolster the future of the team

Rohit Sharma, who is set to lead India's charge in the 2022 T20 World Cup, recently offered his take on the importance of depth in the squad, as the Men in Blue set off on a heavily packed season of international cricket.

Rohit Sharma, who is set to lead India's charge in the 2022 T20 World Cup, recently offered his take on the importance of depth in the squad, as the Men in Blue set off on a heavily packed season of international cricket. He admitted that placing all their faith in a handful of battle-tested veterans of the sport like Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami and more would be a mistake that could exact a heavy toll on the team's prospects of emerging triumphant at the end of the season. ALSO READ: Watch: Young fan hilariously stuns KL Rahul by claiming 'to he*l with school' In a recent interaction with the media, Rohit Sharma offered his two cents on why it is essential to hone young talent in the team. "(Jasprit) Bumrah, (Mohammed) Shami and all these guys will not be with the Indian team forever, so you have to try and prepare the other guys. "Myself and Rahul (Dravid) bhai spoke about how we are going to create our bench strength because that's going to be very crucial considering the amount of cricket we play, considering the injury factors and everything." He subsequently revealed why youngsters like Shahbaz Ahmed and Rahul Tripathi were being given more opportunities to display their talents on the big stage. "The guys are getting exposure and our aim is to create bench strength, so that's why in Zimbabwe, there are a lot of players who are touring for the first time - be it Shahbaz Ahmed, Rahul Tripathi - and it is a good exposure. "They are really talented and will grab the opportunity. It's about getting the confidence at this stage, which I am sure they will learn. Playing for the country matters the most." ALSO READ: India playing differently since the last time we played against Pakistan: Rohit Sharma ahead of Asia Cup clash Considering how India has been in an ICC title drought since 2013, the team is seemingly hard at work, competing in various international tournaments to prepare themselves for the challenge that awaits them. The Indian contingents competing in said tournaments feature a number of fresh-faced players, who hope to earn some valuable experience to bolster the future of the team

'Create bench strength'- Rohit Sharma declares India cannot rely on Jasprit Bumrah and Md Shami forever

Indian cricket team skipper Rohit Sharma said the team's approach in T20 cricket has changed from the time they last locked horns with Pakistan in the T20 World Cup 2021 last year. India had lost against their arch-rivals at the showpiece event to suffer their first defeat against the Men in Green in a World Cup encounter.

India had never lost a World Cup match against Pakistan before the meeting between the two sides in the UAE last year. India had won all 12 encounters between the two teams in ODI and T20 World Cups. However, Pakistan brought an end to their losing streak with an emphatic ten-wicket win in Dubai last year.

Pakistan produced an excellent effort with the ball to restrict India to a moderate total of 151 runs before captain Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan combined to chase down the target with ten wickets to spare. The duo slammed half-centuries apiece to take Pakistan home comfortably and secure the country's first win against the Men in Blue in a World Cup game.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/have-experienced-times-when-i-felt-alone-in-a-room-full-of-people-who-love-me-virat-kohli-on-mental-health-507858">Have experienced times when I felt alone in a room full of people who love me: Virat Kohli on mental health</a>

Ahead of the meeting between the two sides in the upcoming Asia Cup 2022 in the UAE, Indian skipper Rohit Sharma expressed confidence in his team's chances citing the change in their approach.

"Asia Cup is happening after a long time, but we played Pakistan last year in Dubai, where obviously the result did not go our way. But the Asia Cup is different now. The team is playing differently and has prepared differently, so a lot of things have changed from then," said Rohit during a promotional event.

Much has changed for India since their defeat against Pakistan last year. India had failed to qualify for the knockout stage of the T20 World Cup 2021 following which Virat Kohli stepped down as captain to hand over reign&nbsp;to Rohit. Former head coach Ravi Shastri has also been replaced by the legendary Rahul Dravid at the helm.

Under Rohit's captaincy, India have been phenomenal so far in T20Is and are yet to lose a T20I series having won seven on the trot. The team has also adapted an agressive approach in their batting while the bowling line-up has also undergone some notable changes.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-cant-compare-myself-to-dhoni-or-rohit-as-a-leader-their-achievements-are-far-greater-kl-rahul-507841">I can't compare myself to Dhoni or Rohit as a leader, their achievements are far greater: KL Rahul</a>

Explaining his strategy for the Asia Cup 2022, Rohit said India won't focus on a single opposition but will be aiming to go the distance as a team. Rohit had led India to a memorable triumph during the last edition of the tournament in 2018 and will be hoping to repeat the feat this year.

"My thought has always been that we will not focus on the opponent, but we will continue to play our game. We played against West Indies, England and in both cases, we did not think about who our opposition was, but we focused on things that we had to do as a team and what we had to achieve," said Rohit.

"Similarly, in the Asia Cup, our focus will be on what to achieve as a team and not think about who we are facing - be it Pakistan, Bangladesh or Sri Lanka," he added.

"But for us, we need to assess the conditions, keep in mind the fact that we will be playing in 40-plus degrees. We need to assess all those factors and prepare accordingly," he added.

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Indian cricket team skipper Rohit Sharma said the team's approach in T20 cricket has changed from the time they last locked horns with Pakistan in the T20 World Cup 2021 last year.

Indian cricket team skipper Rohit Sharma said the team's approach in T20 cricket has changed from the time they last locked horns with Pakistan in the T20 World Cup 2021 last year. India had lost against their arch-rivals at the showpiece event to suffer their first defeat against the Men in Green in a World Cup encounter. India had never lost a World Cup match against Pakistan before the meeting between the two sides in the UAE last year. India had won all 12 encounters between the two teams in ODI and T20 World Cups. However, Pakistan brought an end to their losing streak with an emphatic ten-wicket win in Dubai last year. Pakistan produced an excellent effort with the ball to restrict India to a moderate total of 151 runs before captain Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan combined to chase down the target with ten wickets to spare. The duo slammed half-centuries apiece to take Pakistan home comfortably and secure the country's first win against the Men in Blue in a World Cup game. Also Read: Have experienced times when I felt alone in a room full of people who love me: Virat Kohli on mental health Ahead of the meeting between the two sides in the upcoming Asia Cup 2022 in the UAE, Indian skipper Rohit Sharma expressed confidence in his team's chances citing the change in their approach. "Asia Cup is happening after a long time, but we played Pakistan last year in Dubai, where obviously the result did not go our way. But the Asia Cup is different now. The team is playing differently and has prepared differently, so a lot of things have changed from then," said Rohit during a promotional event. Much has changed for India since their defeat against Pakistan last year. India had failed to qualify for the knockout stage of the T20 World Cup 2021 following which Virat Kohli stepped down as captain to hand over reign to Rohit. Former head coach Ravi Shastri has also been replaced by the legendary Rahul Dravid at the helm. Under Rohit's captaincy, India have been phenomenal so far in T20Is and are yet to lose a T20I series having won seven on the trot. The team has also adapted an agressive approach in their batting while the bowling line-up has also undergone some notable changes. Also Read: I can't compare myself to Dhoni or Rohit as a leader, their achievements are far greater: KL Rahul Explaining his strategy for the Asia Cup 2022, Rohit said India won't focus on a single opposition but will be aiming to go the distance as a team. Rohit had led India to a memorable triumph during the last edition of the tournament in 2018 and will be hoping to repeat the feat this year. "My thought has always been that we will not focus on the opponent, but we will continue to play our game. We played against West Indies, England and in both cases, we did not think about who our opposition was, but we focused on things that we had to do as a team and what we had to achieve," said Rohit. "Similarly, in the Asia Cup, our focus will be on what to achieve as a team and not think about who we are facing - be it Pakistan, Bangladesh or Sri Lanka," he added. "But for us, we need to assess the conditions, keep in mind the fact that we will be playing in 40-plus degrees. We need to assess all those factors and prepare accordingly," he added.

India playing differently since the last time we played against Pakistan: Rohit Sharma ahead of Asia Cup clash

KL Rahul is all set to make his comeback to international cricket in India's upcoming ODI series against Zimbabwe. He was last seen in action during the qualifier of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 where he was leading Lucknow Super Giants. Rahul underwent surgery for sports hernia post the IPL and missed the South Africa series at home.

He also had to miss India's tour of England amid his recovery and was set to make his return during India's tour of the West Indies. However, he was ruled out after contracting COVID-19 and is now set to make his comeback in the ODI series against Zimbabwe that gets underway on Thursday (August 18).

Rahul was appointed as the captain of the Indian team for the Zimbabwe series in the eleventh hour as he replaced Shikhar Dhawan as the stand-in skipper after his availability was confirmed by the BCCI. It will be Rahul's second series as captain and the star batter is ready for the challenge.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohlis-childhood-coach-shares-slight-concern-for-his-pupil-ahead-of-pakistan-clash-in-asia-cup-507807">Virat Kohli's childhood coach shares 'slight concern' for his pupil ahead of Pakistan clash in Asia Cup</a>

Rahul might have led India only in a handful of matches so far, but he has plenty of experience as a captain having led for three seasons now in the IPL. Rahul has emerged as a very calm and collective leader, possessing similar traits to the likes of MS Dhoni and Rohit Sharma, who are known for similar approach.

When asked if he had a similar style to the likes of Dhoni and Rohit, Rahul played down the comparisons and said he can't be put in the same bracket as the duo as he is still young while they have far greater achievements under their belt.

"I don't know. I don't compare, personally. The names (MS Dhoni and Rohit Sharma), I can't even compare myself as a leader with these guys because their numbers or achievements are far greater and what they have done for the country, I don't think anyone should be put in the same breath," Rahul said in the pre-match presser ahead of 1st ODI against Zimbabwe.

"For me, I am still young and this is my second series as captain. Obviously, I have played under them and learned a lot from them and as players and as guys in the team, you learn from each other over the years. I have a picked up a few qualities from these guys," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/deepak-hooda-on-the-cusp-of-achieveing-rare-world-record-as-india-take-on-zimbabwe-in-1st-odi-507824">Deepak Hooda on the cusp of achieveing rare world record as India take on Zimbabwe in 1st ODI</a>

Rahul's captaincy stint was off to a poor start as he lost all four matches as captain during India's tour of South Africa earlier this year. However, he remains the designated vice-captain in white-ball cricket and is part of India's leadership group. Rahul believes in staying true to himself as a leader and allowing his players to express themselves.

"A captain has to be true to himself, then it spreads to the players. I am a calm person and I can't go out there and try to be something else. I believe that is not fair to myself and to the team and to the game. I try to be myself in the best way possible. You try to let other players be themselves and express themselves," said the stylish batter.

Rahul will be hoping to make a strong comeback for the Indian team in the upcoming three-match series in order to prepare well for the Asia Cup 2022 later this month. He is likely to open the batting with skipper Rohit&nbsp;in Asia Cup which gets underway in the UAE later this month.

KL Rahul is all set to make his comeback to international cricket in India's upcoming ODI series against Zimbabwe. He was last seen in action during the qualifier of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 where he was leading Lucknow Super Giants.

KL Rahul is all set to make his comeback to international cricket in India's upcoming ODI series against Zimbabwe. He was last seen in action during the qualifier of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 where he was leading Lucknow Super Giants. Rahul underwent surgery for sports hernia post the IPL and missed the South Africa series at home. He also had to miss India's tour of England amid his recovery and was set to make his return during India's tour of the West Indies. However, he was ruled out after contracting COVID-19 and is now set to make his comeback in the ODI series against Zimbabwe that gets underway on Thursday (August 18). Rahul was appointed as the captain of the Indian team for the Zimbabwe series in the eleventh hour as he replaced Shikhar Dhawan as the stand-in skipper after his availability was confirmed by the BCCI. It will be Rahul's second series as captain and the star batter is ready for the challenge. Also Read: Virat Kohli's childhood coach shares 'slight concern' for his pupil ahead of Pakistan clash in Asia Cup Rahul might have led India only in a handful of matches so far, but he has plenty of experience as a captain having led for three seasons now in the IPL. Rahul has emerged as a very calm and collective leader, possessing similar traits to the likes of MS Dhoni and Rohit Sharma, who are known for similar approach. When asked if he had a similar style to the likes of Dhoni and Rohit, Rahul played down the comparisons and said he can't be put in the same bracket as the duo as he is still young while they have far greater achievements under their belt. "I don't know. I don't compare, personally. The names (MS Dhoni and Rohit Sharma), I can't even compare myself as a leader with these guys because their numbers or achievements are far greater and what they have done for the country, I don't think anyone should be put in the same breath," Rahul said in the pre-match presser ahead of 1st ODI against Zimbabwe. "For me, I am still young and this is my second series as captain. Obviously, I have played under them and learned a lot from them and as players and as guys in the team, you learn from each other over the years. I have a picked up a few qualities from these guys," he added. Also Read: Deepak Hooda on the cusp of achieveing rare world record as India take on Zimbabwe in 1st ODI Rahul's captaincy stint was off to a poor start as he lost all four matches as captain during India's tour of South Africa earlier this year. However, he remains the designated vice-captain in white-ball cricket and is part of India's leadership group. Rahul believes in staying true to himself as a leader and allowing his players to express themselves. "A captain has to be true to himself, then it spreads to the players. I am a calm person and I can't go out there and try to be something else. I believe that is not fair to myself and to the team and to the game. I try to be myself in the best way possible. You try to let other players be themselves and express themselves," said the stylish batter. Rahul will be hoping to make a strong comeback for the Indian team in the upcoming three-match series in order to prepare well for the Asia Cup 2022 later this month. He is likely to open the batting with skipper Rohit in Asia Cup which gets underway in the UAE later this month.

I can't compare myself to Dhoni or Rohit as a leader, their achievements are far greater: KL Rahul

Ravi Shastri's coaching tenure for Team India was quite a memorable one. While he didn't take India to an ICC title, the then Virat Kohli-led national side achieved sizeable success under him. Under Shastri, India reached the 2019 ODI World Cup semi-final, inaugural WTC final, dominated at home, beat Australia twice in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy Down Under, drew a five-match Test series versus hosts England and won bilateral T20I series in SENA countries.

Recently, veteran keeper-batter Dinesh Karthik reflected on Shastri's glorious run as India's head coach and had a lot of positives to say. Karthik revealed what annoyed Shastri the most and made an interesting claim.&nbsp;

"He had a very low tolerance for somebody who wouldn’t bat at a certain pace he did not like or someone who was doing very differently in the nets and in the match, he would go and bat differently. He would not be very appreciative of that. Shastri knew exactly what he wanted from the team, the way in which it was played, but his tolerance was very little for failures. He always used to push people to do very well," said Karthik on Cricbuzz' docuseries Summer Stalemate

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-did-not-see-that-coming-dinesh-karthik-recalls-rohit-sharmas-low-point-that-tore-him-to-shreds-507461">He did not see that coming: Dinesh Karthik recalls Rohit Sharma's low point that 'tore him to shreds'</a>

Further, the 37-year-old Karthik feels Shastri did a better job serving as India's coach, than as a cricketer. "I think Shastri, the player, was somebody who was probably not as talented but fulfilled his talent as a coach. He did much better than what he was expected to do. As a coach, he was a larger-than-life person. He was somebody who pushed players to try and achieve special things," added Karthik.

Ravi Shastri's coaching tenure for Team India was quite a memorable one. While he didn't take India to an ICC title, the then Virat Kohli-led national side achieved sizeable success under him.

Ravi Shastri's coaching tenure for Team India was quite a memorable one. While he didn't take India to an ICC title, the then Virat Kohli-led national side achieved sizeable success under him. Under Shastri, India reached the 2019 ODI World Cup semi-final, inaugural WTC final, dominated at home, beat Australia twice in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy Down Under, drew a five-match Test series versus hosts England and won bilateral T20I series in SENA countries. Recently, veteran keeper-batter Dinesh Karthik reflected on Shastri's glorious run as India's head coach and had a lot of positives to say. Karthik revealed what annoyed Shastri the most and made an interesting claim. "He had a very low tolerance for somebody who wouldn’t bat at a certain pace he did not like or someone who was doing very differently in the nets and in the match, he would go and bat differently. He would not be very appreciative of that. Shastri knew exactly what he wanted from the team, the way in which it was played, but his tolerance was very little for failures. He always used to push people to do very well," said Karthik on Cricbuzz' docuseries Summer Stalemate ALSO READ | He did not see that coming: Dinesh Karthik recalls Rohit Sharma's low point that 'tore him to shreds' Further, the 37-year-old Karthik feels Shastri did a better job serving as India's coach, than as a cricketer. "I think Shastri, the player, was somebody who was probably not as talented but fulfilled his talent as a coach. He did much better than what he was expected to do. As a coach, he was a larger-than-life person. He was somebody who pushed players to try and achieve special things," added Karthik.

'His tolerance was very little...' - Dinesh Karthik explains what annoyed ex-India coach Ravi Shastri the most

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