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

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

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

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

A number of Indian players had blamed the lack of proper rest and the cramped schedule after India's disappointing exit from the T20 World Cup in the UAE last year. India had failed to make it to the knockout stages as they bowed out of the tournament from the group stage after a terrible show.

Following the team's exit, the debate surrounding the workload management of the players intensified as many complained of being burnt out. India have since undergone a massive transformation with Rahul Dravid at the helm of affairs and Rohit Sharma replacing Virat Kohli as the team's captain in&nbsp;all three formats.

While India have changed their playing approach to an extent in white-ball cricket, the team management has also focused on ensuring better workload management and regular rotation of players ahead of the T20 World Cup in Australia this year.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-has-never-been-a-great-t20-player-he-cant-be-like-rohit-or-suryakumar-says-ex-pakistan-captain-512615">Kohli has never been a great T20 player, he can't be like Rohit or Suryakumar, says ex-Pakistan captain</a>

A number of players have led India so far this year while several youngsters have also made their debuts for the team. While many have been left baffled by the constant&nbsp;changes in India's squad and leadership, it has now emerged that it was all pre-planned on Dravid and Rohit's part.

As per a report in the Times of India, Rohit and Rahul had pre-planned the rotation of key players and their workload management keeping the T20 World Cup 2022 in mind. A source revealed the captain and head coach held a meeting with the team's strength and conditioning coach and physios to hand them a list of players they wanted in the best possible shape for the T20 World Cup.

"The captain and coach had sat down with the strength and conditioning coach and the physios in February. They had marked the entire year's schedule. Rohit and Dravid had given them a pool of players. The support staff was told to ensure those players are available and in the best shape for theT20 World Cup. Thus, each series was marked for the players to play in," a source was quoted as saying by the Times of India.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/always-a-pressure-game-pakistans-mohammad-rizwan-on-facing-india-in-asia-cup-2022-yet-again-512635">'Always a pressure game': Pakistan's Mohammad Rizwan on facing India in Asia Cup 2022 yet again</a>

The source further revealed that it was decided that any player who feels he is about to hit the threshold would be provided rest immediately to ensure it doesn't result in burnout. It probably explains why the likes of Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammad Shami and skipper Rohit himself have had plenty of rest so far this year.

"It has been decided that if the trainers and physios feel a player is about to hit his threshold, he will be rested straightaway. If any player reveals any discomfort, the team management is willing to rest him at that very point. It's better to err on the side of caution," the source added. 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

A number of Indian players had blamed the lack of proper rest and the cramped schedule after India's disappointing exit from the T20 World Cup in the UAE last year.

A number of Indian players had blamed the lack of proper rest and the cramped schedule after India's disappointing exit from the T20 World Cup in the UAE last year. India had failed to make it to the knockout stages as they bowed out of the tournament from the group stage after a terrible show. Following the team's exit, the debate surrounding the workload management of the players intensified as many complained of being burnt out. India have since undergone a massive transformation with Rahul Dravid at the helm of affairs and Rohit Sharma replacing Virat Kohli as the team's captain in all three formats. While India have changed their playing approach to an extent in white-ball cricket, the team management has also focused on ensuring better workload management and regular rotation of players ahead of the T20 World Cup in Australia this year. Also Read: Kohli has never been a great T20 player, he can't be like Rohit or Suryakumar, says ex-Pakistan captain A number of players have led India so far this year while several youngsters have also made their debuts for the team. While many have been left baffled by the constant changes in India's squad and leadership, it has now emerged that it was all pre-planned on Dravid and Rohit's part. As per a report in the Times of India, Rohit and Rahul had pre-planned the rotation of key players and their workload management keeping the T20 World Cup 2022 in mind. A source revealed the captain and head coach held a meeting with the team's strength and conditioning coach and physios to hand them a list of players they wanted in the best possible shape for the T20 World Cup. "The captain and coach had sat down with the strength and conditioning coach and the physios in February. They had marked the entire year's schedule. Rohit and Dravid had given them a pool of players. The support staff was told to ensure those players are available and in the best shape for theT20 World Cup. Thus, each series was marked for the players to play in," a source was quoted as saying by the Times of India. Also Read: 'Always a pressure game': Pakistan's Mohammad Rizwan on facing India in Asia Cup 2022 yet again The source further revealed that it was decided that any player who feels he is about to hit the threshold would be provided rest immediately to ensure it doesn't result in burnout. It probably explains why the likes of Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammad Shami and skipper Rohit himself have had plenty of rest so far this year. "It has been decided that if the trainers and physios feel a player is about to hit his threshold, he will be rested straightaway. If any player reveals any discomfort, the team management is willing to rest him at that very point. It's better to err on the side of caution," the source added.

Rohit, Dravid pre-planned rotation of players, workload management keeping T20 WC 2022 in mind - Report

Just when people were getting curious about a string of celebrities posting about the 'Mega Blockbuster' on social media, former Indian cricketer Sourav Ganguly perhaps ruined the surprise and answered curious fans' questions- albeit unknowingly.

Just when people were getting curious about a string of celebrities posting about the 'Mega Blockbuster' on social media, former Indian cricketer Sourav Ganguly perhaps ruined the surprise and answered curious fans' questions- albeit unknowingly. Stars like Deepika Padukone, Rashmika Mandanna, Kapil Sharma, and Trisha Krishnan shared similar posters which were titled as 'Mega Blockbuster' while promising the trailer would be out on 4th September. Even cricketer Rohit Sharma shared the same poster. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Deepika Padukone (@deepikapadukone) × View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kapil Sharma (@kapilsharma) × View this post on Instagram A post shared by Rashmika Mandanna (@rashmika_mandanna) × View this post on Instagram A post shared by Trish (@trishakrishnan) × View this post on Instagram A post shared by Rohit Sharma (@rohitsharma45) × While fans were still wondering what was common between all these celebrities, it was Sourav Ganguly who made a social media gaffe and ruined the surprise. Ganguly did share the same poster but in the caption, mistakenly copy-pasted the brief that had been sent to him, revealing that the campaign was for a brand called Meesho. “Please ensure that the MEESHO branding or hashtag is nowhere mentioned in September 1’s post," read Ganguly's post. While the post was deleted, screenshots are doing the rounds on social media with most taking jabs at Ganguly for not getting the memo right. You had one job!!@Meesho_Official @SGanguly99 😂 pic.twitter.com/RP4Xmova85 — Gopi (@gopi_tweetss) September 2, 2022 × Sourav Ganguly hire me instead😂 #meesho #meeshoads — Vaibhav Pathak (@vaibh500) September 2, 2022 × 😂 So Rohit Sharma, Kapil Sharma, and many other celebrities are doing a campaign for Meesho. Love you Dada. @SGanguly99 @KapilSharmaK9 @Meesho_Official pic.twitter.com/Te6oENaUMw — बगळा (@head_heron) September 2, 2022 × Sourav Ganguly is the whistle blower for @Meesho_Official 😋 — Arvind Ramachander (@arvindia4u) September 2, 2022 × Ganguly later reshared the post, this time without the brief and correcting his caption. View this post on Instagram A post shared by SOURAV GANGULY (@souravganguly) × MEESHO is a clothing brand and the celebrities have been roped in for new ad campaign for the brand.

Sourav Ganguly's social media gaffe answers Deepika Padukone, Kapil Sharma, Rashmika Mandanna's post 

Indian skipper and one of the most prolific performers in the history of the team, Rohit Sharma,&nbsp;is seemingly all set to entertain his fans without his bat. While Sharma has been a mainstay in the Indian cricketing fraternity, he may be dipping his toes in the deep waters of big-screen entertainment.

Sharma alluded to the same with a cryptic post on social media. As India marches on in the Asia Cup tournament, looking to successfully defend their title after having broken into the Super Four, Sharma a poster of what could presumably belong to a film, documentary or a similar venture.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-pakistan-skipper-believes-rohit-sharma-will-loose-his-captaincy-claims-he-looks-lost-512144" hreflang="en">Former Pakistan skipper believes Rohit Sharma will lose his captaincy, claims he ‘looks lost’</a>

The poster betrayed the fact that the trailer for his new venture will drop on 4th September. However, Sharma withheld any and all information regarding what the trailer was truly for, leaving fans vying for some answers.

"Butterflies in my stomach. A debut of a kind," wrote Sharma in the caption of the post. Keeping the caption in mind, it is fair to assume that Sharma, much like his fans, is brimming with anticipation and excitement for his upcoming foray into cinema.

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As far as Sharma's exploits on the field of cricket are concerned, he has done increasingly well in bolstering India's claim to the title of Asia Cup champions. Under his leadership, India stormed past their first two opponents in the tournament, Pakistan and Hong Kong.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharmas-india-register-most-t20i-wins-in-a-calendar-year-after-going-past-hong-kong-in-asia-cup-2022-512106" hreflang="en">Rohit Sharma's India register most T20I wins in a calendar year after going past Hong Kong in Asia Cup 2022</a>

While he has performed his duties as skipper with near perfection, he has also managed to further his personal stock in the national cricketing environment, effectively becoming the most successful Indian captain in the shortest format of the game by overtaking Virat Kohli.&nbsp;

He achieved this feat by leading India to glory against their Group A rivals Hong Kong as the win marked his 31st victory&nbsp;across&nbsp;37 T20I appearances as captain. Owing to his success, his win percentage in the T20I format stands at a whopping&nbsp;83.78%.

&nbsp;

Indian skipper and one of the most prolific performers in the history of the team, Rohit Sharma, is seemingly all set to entertain his fans without his bat. While Sharma has been a mainstay in the Indian cricketing fraternity, he may be dipping his toes in the deep waters of big-screen entertainment.

Indian skipper and one of the most prolific performers in the history of the team, Rohit Sharma, is seemingly all set to entertain his fans without his bat. While Sharma has been a mainstay in the Indian cricketing fraternity, he may be dipping his toes in the deep waters of big-screen entertainment. Sharma alluded to the same with a cryptic post on social media. As India marches on in the Asia Cup tournament, looking to successfully defend their title after having broken into the Super Four, Sharma a poster of what could presumably belong to a film, documentary or a similar venture. ALSO READ: Former Pakistan skipper believes Rohit Sharma will lose his captaincy, claims he ‘looks lost’ The poster betrayed the fact that the trailer for his new venture will drop on 4th September. However, Sharma withheld any and all information regarding what the trailer was truly for, leaving fans vying for some answers. "Butterflies in my stomach. A debut of a kind," wrote Sharma in the caption of the post. Keeping the caption in mind, it is fair to assume that Sharma, much like his fans, is brimming with anticipation and excitement for his upcoming foray into cinema. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Rohit Sharma (@rohitsharma45) × As far as Sharma's exploits on the field of cricket are concerned, he has done increasingly well in bolstering India's claim to the title of Asia Cup champions. Under his leadership, India stormed past their first two opponents in the tournament, Pakistan and Hong Kong. ALSO READ: Rohit Sharma's India register most T20I wins in a calendar year after going past Hong Kong in Asia Cup 2022 While he has performed his duties as skipper with near perfection, he has also managed to further his personal stock in the national cricketing environment, effectively becoming the most successful Indian captain in the shortest format of the game by overtaking Virat Kohli. He achieved this feat by leading India to glory against their Group A rivals Hong Kong as the win marked his 31st victory across 37 T20I appearances as captain. Owing to his success, his win percentage in the T20I format stands at a whopping 83.78%.

Rohit Sharma alludes to a potential cinematic debut in cryptic post on social media

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

KL Rahul had a forgettable outing for Team India in&nbsp;their second game in the Asia Cup 2022 edition, where they locked horns with Hong Kong at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. On Wednesday evening (August 31), Rohit Sharma-led India locked horns with the minnows and rode on Suryakumar Yadav's 26-ball 68 not out and Virat Kohli's 59* to post 192-2 before restricting Hong Kong for 152-5 to win by 40 runs. While it was a fine outing for the Men in Blue, vice-captain Rahul was heavily criticised for his abysmal 39-ball 36.

Rahul, returning to international cricket during the Zimbabwe series last month, struggled to open his account and was dismissed for a golden duck versus Pakistan in defending champions India's Asia Cup opener. Versus Hong Kong, he opened with captain Rohit and fell on the last ball of the 13th over, after stitching a handy 54-run stand with Virat Kohli, before his dismissal. The right-hander hit only two fours in his innings. Thus, many slammed Rahul on social media and some former cricketers also had few words to say about his&nbsp;struggles.

Former Indian opener-turned-commentator Sunil Gavaskar came to Rahul's support after the Hong Kong tie. Speaking to India Today, he said, "I think KL Rahul is a class act. With the kind of performance he has had over the years for India... if you give others a long rope, why can't we give KL Rahul a long rope? He is your vice-captain as well. You give him a long rope because we have all seen what he is capable of in the T20 format."

"He is coming back from an injury, so that rhythm is not quite there but the rhythm will come and when it comes, it will be devastating for the opposition," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cant-fathom-this-approach-venkatesh-prasad-lashes-out-at-kl-rahul-after-unimpressive-knock-vs-hong-kong-511994">'Can't fathom this approach': Venkatesh Prasad lashes out at KL Rahul after unimpressive knock vs Hong Kong</a>

On the other hand, former off-spinner Pragyan Ojha said, "He brings experience. He just needs a couple of games and he will be back. He has been there and done that. I am not too concerned because others are doing well and the team is winning. This will rub off on him.

"He is just one knock away from finding his form. The shots that he played, he timed them well. He was not struggling for timing. I felt he was timing them well. So I think he's just there and it's a matter of time," he further asserted.

KL Rahul had a forgettable outing for Team India in their second game in the Asia Cup 2022 edition, where they locked horns with Hong Kong at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai.

KL Rahul had a forgettable outing for Team India in their second game in the Asia Cup 2022 edition, where they locked horns with Hong Kong at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. On Wednesday evening (August 31), Rohit Sharma-led India locked horns with the minnows and rode on Suryakumar Yadav's 26-ball 68 not out and Virat Kohli's 59* to post 192-2 before restricting Hong Kong for 152-5 to win by 40 runs. While it was a fine outing for the Men in Blue, vice-captain Rahul was heavily criticised for his abysmal 39-ball 36. Rahul, returning to international cricket during the Zimbabwe series last month, struggled to open his account and was dismissed for a golden duck versus Pakistan in defending champions India's Asia Cup opener. Versus Hong Kong, he opened with captain Rohit and fell on the last ball of the 13th over, after stitching a handy 54-run stand with Virat Kohli, before his dismissal. The right-hander hit only two fours in his innings. Thus, many slammed Rahul on social media and some former cricketers also had few words to say about his struggles. Former Indian opener-turned-commentator Sunil Gavaskar came to Rahul's support after the Hong Kong tie. Speaking to India Today, he said, "I think KL Rahul is a class act. With the kind of performance he has had over the years for India... if you give others a long rope, why can't we give KL Rahul a long rope? He is your vice-captain as well. You give him a long rope because we have all seen what he is capable of in the T20 format." "He is coming back from an injury, so that rhythm is not quite there but the rhythm will come and when it comes, it will be devastating for the opposition," he added. ALSO READ | 'Can't fathom this approach': Venkatesh Prasad lashes out at KL Rahul after unimpressive knock vs Hong Kong On the other hand, former off-spinner Pragyan Ojha said, "He brings experience. He just needs a couple of games and he will be back. He has been there and done that. I am not too concerned because others are doing well and the team is winning. This will rub off on him. "He is just one knock away from finding his form. The shots that he played, he timed them well. He was not struggling for timing. I felt he was timing them well. So I think he's just there and it's a matter of time," he further asserted.

'If you give others a long rope, why can't we give KL Rahul' - Sunil Gavaskar backs under-fire Indian opener

Rohit Sharma's Team India beat Hong Kong by 40 runs in their second match at the Asia Cup 2022 edition, on Wednesday (August 31), at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. Being asked to bat first, Rohit &amp; Co. rode on Suryakumar Yadav's 26-ball 68 not out and Virat Kohli's 59, off 44 balls, to post a mammoth 192-2. In reply, India restricted Hong Kong to 152-5 in 20 overs, winning by 40 runs to book a spot in the Super Four round.&nbsp;

With another win up his sleeves as the T20I captain, Rohit has now gone past his predecessor Virat to become the second-most successful skipper in the shortest format for the Men in Blue. The list is topped by legendary captain MS Dhoni, who attained 41 wins from 72 matches. Virat ended his T20I captaincy tenure, from early 2017 to late 2021, with 30 victories from 50 games. Rohit, on the other hand, attained his 31st victory as captain in just 37 encounters after the end of proceedings between India-Hong Kong on Wednesday evening.

Rohit took over as the full-time T20I captain post Virat's exit following the disastrous run in the 2021 T20 World Cup. Since then, Rohit has led India to home series wins versus New Zealand, West Indies and away victories over England and West Indies. He will now aim to clinch the Asia Cup trophy before the action shifts to the 2022 T20 World Cup.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-ravindra-jadejas-bullet-throw-sends-hong-kongs-captain-nizakat-khan-packing-in-asia-cup-encounter-512031">WATCH: Ravindra Jadeja's bullet throw sends Hong Kong's captain Nizakat Khan packing in Asia Cup encounter</a>

After the match, Rohit said at the post-match presentation, "We batted pretty well to start with, got to a very good score. Came out and bowled reasonably well, we could have done slightly better with the ball. (SKY) The kind of innings he played today, the words will be short. We have seen that with him every now and then. He comes up with suck kinds of knocks. He just comes out and bats fearlessly which is what the team expects from him. Some of the shots he played today, those are not written anywhere in the book. It was very pleasing to watch. Shot selection was also crucial. We know he can play all around the park. We have also informed the group about this (flexibility in the batting order) as well. Most of the guys are ready to take the opportunity and be ready to bat wherever required. That's the flexibility we need. We'll take those chances. We are going to try and use the right match-ups."

Rohit Sharma's Team India beat Hong Kong by 40 runs in their second match at the Asia Cup 2022 edition, on Wednesday (August 31), at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai.

Rohit Sharma's Team India beat Hong Kong by 40 runs in their second match at the Asia Cup 2022 edition, on Wednesday (August 31), at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. Being asked to bat first, Rohit & Co. rode on Suryakumar Yadav's 26-ball 68 not out and Virat Kohli's 59, off 44 balls, to post a mammoth 192-2. In reply, India restricted Hong Kong to 152-5 in 20 overs, winning by 40 runs to book a spot in the Super Four round. With another win up his sleeves as the T20I captain, Rohit has now gone past his predecessor Virat to become the second-most successful skipper in the shortest format for the Men in Blue. The list is topped by legendary captain MS Dhoni, who attained 41 wins from 72 matches. Virat ended his T20I captaincy tenure, from early 2017 to late 2021, with 30 victories from 50 games. Rohit, on the other hand, attained his 31st victory as captain in just 37 encounters after the end of proceedings between India-Hong Kong on Wednesday evening. Rohit took over as the full-time T20I captain post Virat's exit following the disastrous run in the 2021 T20 World Cup. Since then, Rohit has led India to home series wins versus New Zealand, West Indies and away victories over England and West Indies. He will now aim to clinch the Asia Cup trophy before the action shifts to the 2022 T20 World Cup. ALSO READ | WATCH: Ravindra Jadeja's bullet throw sends Hong Kong's captain Nizakat Khan packing in Asia Cup encounter After the match, Rohit said at the post-match presentation, "We batted pretty well to start with, got to a very good score. Came out and bowled reasonably well, we could have done slightly better with the ball. (SKY) The kind of innings he played today, the words will be short. We have seen that with him every now and then. He comes up with suck kinds of knocks. He just comes out and bats fearlessly which is what the team expects from him. Some of the shots he played today, those are not written anywhere in the book. It was very pleasing to watch. Shot selection was also crucial. We know he can play all around the park. We have also informed the group about this (flexibility in the batting order) as well. Most of the guys are ready to take the opportunity and be ready to bat wherever required. That's the flexibility we need. We'll take those chances. We are going to try and use the right match-ups."

Rohit goes past Kohli to become India's second-most successful T20I captain, only behind legend Dhoni

India beat Hong Kong by 40 runs to book a spot in the Super Four round in the ongoing Asia Cup 2022 edition, in the UAE, on Wednesday (August 31). Rohit Sharma-led India was asked to bat first and rode on Suryakumar Yadav's entertaining 26-ball 68* and Virat Kohli's 44-ball 59 not out to post 192-2 and restricted the minnows for 152-5 to earn an easy win. While India didn't break a lot of sweat after posting a mammoth total, Hong Kong did put up a spirited show in parts.

Hong Kong bowlers didn't allow India to dictate terms with the bat during the first half of their innings. At halfway stage, India were 70-1 and before SKY-Kohli's heroics in the death overs. When India weren't accelerating as much as they would've wanted to, a bulk of criticism came down to KL Rahul. The vice-captain, who returned to international cricket after a long gap, was struggling with his timing and didn't show much intent. Thus, former Indian pacer Venkatesh Prasad lashed out at him on Twitter during the proceedings on Wednesday (August 31), held at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai.

"Is there something in the pitch that is not visible? Simply can't fathom this approach, especially from KL Rahul. #IndvsHkg" Prasad wrote on Twitter.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-6-6-6-0-6-suryakumar-yadav-goes-bonkers-vs-hong-kong-breaks-asia-cup-t20-record-in-20th-over-511947">Watch: 6, 6, 6, 0, 6, 2! Suryakumar Yadav goes bonkers vs Hong Kong, breaks Asia Cup T20 record in 20th over</a>

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Is there something in the pitch that is not visible. Simply can't fathom this approach especially from KL Rahul. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndvsHkg?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndvsHkg</a>
— Venkatesh Prasad (@venkateshprasad) <a href="https://twitter.com/venkateshprasad/status/1564990108155031553?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 31, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Rahul opened the innings and fell on the last ball of the 13th over, departing for an unimpressive 39-ball 36. He managed to hit only two fours and ended with a strike rate of less than 100, i.e. 92.31. After the proceedings, Player-of-the-Match SKY addressed the post-match press conference and defended Rahul's approach.&nbsp;

Answering a reporter's query on Rahul, Surya said, "(Smiles) Aap bol rahe ho ke KL bhai ko nahi khilana chahiye? (So you mean to say that KL should be dropped?). He (Rahul) is coming back from injury, he also needs some time. We have some time right now."

Rahul will be eager to regain his rhythm as the tournament progresses ahead in the UAE. India are set to face the winner of Pakistan-Hong Kong in their first clash in the Super Four round, on Sunday (September 04) at the same venue in Dubai.&nbsp;

India beat Hong Kong by 40 runs to book a spot in the Super Four round in the ongoing Asia Cup 2022 edition, in the UAE, on Wednesday (August 31). Rohit Sharma-led India was asked to bat first and rode on Suryakumar Yadav's entertaining 26-ball 68* and Virat Kohli's 44-ball 59 not out to post 192-2 and restricted the minnows for 152-5 to earn an easy win.

India beat Hong Kong by 40 runs to book a spot in the Super Four round in the ongoing Asia Cup 2022 edition, in the UAE, on Wednesday (August 31). Rohit Sharma-led India was asked to bat first and rode on Suryakumar Yadav's entertaining 26-ball 68* and Virat Kohli's 44-ball 59 not out to post 192-2 and restricted the minnows for 152-5 to earn an easy win. While India didn't break a lot of sweat after posting a mammoth total, Hong Kong did put up a spirited show in parts. Hong Kong bowlers didn't allow India to dictate terms with the bat during the first half of their innings. At halfway stage, India were 70-1 and before SKY-Kohli's heroics in the death overs. When India weren't accelerating as much as they would've wanted to, a bulk of criticism came down to KL Rahul. The vice-captain, who returned to international cricket after a long gap, was struggling with his timing and didn't show much intent. Thus, former Indian pacer Venkatesh Prasad lashed out at him on Twitter during the proceedings on Wednesday (August 31), held at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. "Is there something in the pitch that is not visible? Simply can't fathom this approach, especially from KL Rahul. #IndvsHkg" Prasad wrote on Twitter. ALSO READ | Watch: 6, 6, 6, 0, 6, 2! Suryakumar Yadav goes bonkers vs Hong Kong, breaks Asia Cup T20 record in 20th over Is there something in the pitch that is not visible. Simply can't fathom this approach especially from KL Rahul. #IndvsHkg — Venkatesh Prasad (@venkateshprasad) August 31, 2022 × Rahul opened the innings and fell on the last ball of the 13th over, departing for an unimpressive 39-ball 36. He managed to hit only two fours and ended with a strike rate of less than 100, i.e. 92.31. After the proceedings, Player-of-the-Match SKY addressed the post-match press conference and defended Rahul's approach. Answering a reporter's query on Rahul, Surya said, "(Smiles) Aap bol rahe ho ke KL bhai ko nahi khilana chahiye? (So you mean to say that KL should be dropped?). He (Rahul) is coming back from injury, he also needs some time. We have some time right now." Rahul will be eager to regain his rhythm as the tournament progresses ahead in the UAE. India are set to face the winner of Pakistan-Hong Kong in their first clash in the Super Four round, on Sunday (September 04) at the same venue in Dubai.

'Can't fathom this approach': Venkatesh Prasad lashes out at KL Rahul after unimpressive knock vs Hong Kong

With his latest outing against Asia Cup rivals Hong Kong at the Dubai International Stadium, Rohit Sharma reached an extremely impressive milestone, effectively becoming&nbsp;the only player to boast of a unique record.&nbsp;

Although Sharma's performance against Hong Kong was nothing to write home about, it was just enough to earn him the mantle of the first player to reach 3500 runs in the shortest format of the game. His total haul of runs in the T20I format stands at a whopping 3,520.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-panel-level-fine-on-india-and-pakistan-for-slow-over-rate-in-asia-cup-encounter-511815" hreflang="en">ICC panel level fines on India and Pakistan for slow over-rate in Asia Cup encounter</a>

He recorded the feat in the fourth ball that he faced against Hong Kong with a simple single. However, he failed to build on his impressive tally of runs as he could only manage to accumulate 21 runs off of 13 balls. During his short-lived stint on the pitch against Hong Kong, Sharma managed to put on a pair of fours and a six on the scoreboard.

However, it is interesting to note that Sharma, who happens to be the highest run-getter in the format,&nbsp;is only the first male player to record the impressive feat considering how&nbsp;New Zealand's&nbsp;Suzie Bates beat him to the pie as she currently has an uber-impressive run tally of&nbsp;3531.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-pacer-ashish-nehra-opines-on-hardik-pandya-explains-reason-behind-team-india-stars-success-511779" hreflang="en">Former pacer Ashish Nehra opines on Hardik Pandya, explains reason behind Team India star's success</a>

Regardless, Sharma remains in elite company as he is one of the few players who have scored over 3,000 runs in T20I, including&nbsp;Paul Stirling with 3,011 runs,&nbsp;Virat Kohli with 3,343 runs and&nbsp;Martin Guptill with an extremely close 3,497 runs.

In addition to being the highest run-getter, Sharma also has the highest number of fifty-plus scores in the T20I format, having crossed half centuries a whopping 31 times. Furthermore, Sharma has four centuries to his name in the same format.

With his latest outing against Asia Cup rivals Hong Kong at the Dubai International Stadium, Rohit Sharma reached an extremely impressive milestone, effectively becoming the only player to boast of a unique record.

With his latest outing against Asia Cup rivals Hong Kong at the Dubai International Stadium, Rohit Sharma reached an extremely impressive milestone, effectively becoming the only player to boast of a unique record. Although Sharma's performance against Hong Kong was nothing to write home about, it was just enough to earn him the mantle of the first player to reach 3500 runs in the shortest format of the game. His total haul of runs in the T20I format stands at a whopping 3,520. ALSO READ: ICC panel level fines on India and Pakistan for slow over-rate in Asia Cup encounter He recorded the feat in the fourth ball that he faced against Hong Kong with a simple single. However, he failed to build on his impressive tally of runs as he could only manage to accumulate 21 runs off of 13 balls. During his short-lived stint on the pitch against Hong Kong, Sharma managed to put on a pair of fours and a six on the scoreboard. However, it is interesting to note that Sharma, who happens to be the highest run-getter in the format, is only the first male player to record the impressive feat considering how New Zealand's Suzie Bates beat him to the pie as she currently has an uber-impressive run tally of 3531. ALSO READ: Former pacer Ashish Nehra opines on Hardik Pandya, explains reason behind Team India star's success Regardless, Sharma remains in elite company as he is one of the few players who have scored over 3,000 runs in T20I, including Paul Stirling with 3,011 runs, Virat Kohli with 3,343 runs and Martin Guptill with an extremely close 3,497 runs. In addition to being the highest run-getter, Sharma also has the highest number of fifty-plus scores in the T20I format, having crossed half centuries a whopping 31 times. Furthermore, Sharma has four centuries to his name in the same format.

Rohit Sharma makes T20I history, becomes the first player to reach 3500 runs

India and Pakistan locked horns with each other, post the 2021 T20 World Cup clash, in the Asia Cup 2022 match on Sunday (August 28) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. In a thrilling contest, India beat their arch-rivals Babar Azam-led Men in Green by five wickets by chasing the 148-run target in the last over.&nbsp;

Before the clash, there were a lot of videos and pictures shared on social media platforms, depicting the healthy camaraderie between players from both sides. Virat Kohli-Babar Azam exchanged greetings whereas Rohit-Babar also had a healthy interaction. The likes of KL Rahul, Kohli, Rishabh Pant met injured Shaheen Afridi&nbsp;during both sides' practice sessions.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shame-on-you-pakistan-fans-troll-mohammad-amir-after-his-tweet-praising-hardik-pandya-post-indias-win-511595">'Shame on you': Pakistan fans troll Mohammad Amir after his tweet praising Hardik Pandya post India's win</a>

With bio-bubble a thing of the past, fans in the UAE are also&nbsp;interacting&nbsp;with players from both the camps at regular intervals. Recently, Hasan Ali -- roped in after the original squad announcement as a replacement for&nbsp;injured speedster&nbsp;Mohammad Wasim jr -- also won hearts with his epic response to an Indian fan. The fan told Hasan, "You've a huge fan-following in India'. To this, the speedster said, "I love India".

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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-this-is-a-question-out-of-my-book-ravindra-jadeja-on-rishabh-pants-absence-from-pakistan-clash-511703">WATCH: 'This is a question out of my book' - Jadeja on Pant's omission from India's XI vs Pakistan</a>

It is to be noted that Hasan is married to an Indian. The couple tied the knot in 2019 in Dubai. Hasan wasn't named in Pakistan's playing XI for their clash versus India. It will be interesting to see if he gets a look-in in Babar &amp; Co.'s must-win clash versus Hong Kong on Friday (September 02).

Pakistan and India are expected to meet each other at least once more in the Asia Cup. If both teams get past minnows Hong Kong, they will lock horns once again on September 04 (Sunday) and can also meet in the tournament finale, on September 11.

India and Pakistan locked horns with each other, post the 2021 T20 World Cup clash, in the Asia Cup 2022 match on Sunday (August 28) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai.

India and Pakistan locked horns with each other, post the 2021 T20 World Cup clash, in the Asia Cup 2022 match on Sunday (August 28) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. In a thrilling contest, India beat their arch-rivals Babar Azam-led Men in Green by five wickets by chasing the 148-run target in the last over. Before the clash, there were a lot of videos and pictures shared on social media platforms, depicting the healthy camaraderie between players from both sides. Virat Kohli-Babar Azam exchanged greetings whereas Rohit-Babar also had a healthy interaction. The likes of KL Rahul, Kohli, Rishabh Pant met injured Shaheen Afridi during both sides' practice sessions. ALSO READ | 'Shame on you': Pakistan fans troll Mohammad Amir after his tweet praising Hardik Pandya post India's win With bio-bubble a thing of the past, fans in the UAE are also interacting with players from both the camps at regular intervals. Recently, Hasan Ali -- roped in after the original squad announcement as a replacement for injured speedster Mohammad Wasim jr -- also won hearts with his epic response to an Indian fan. The fan told Hasan, "You've a huge fan-following in India'. To this, the speedster said, "I love India". ALSO READ | WATCH: 'This is a question out of my book' - Jadeja on Pant's omission from India's XI vs Pakistan It is to be noted that Hasan is married to an Indian. The couple tied the knot in 2019 in Dubai. Hasan wasn't named in Pakistan's playing XI for their clash versus India. It will be interesting to see if he gets a look-in in Babar & Co.'s must-win clash versus Hong Kong on Friday (September 02). Pakistan and India are expected to meet each other at least once more in the Asia Cup. If both teams get past minnows Hong Kong, they will lock horns once again on September 04 (Sunday) and can also meet in the tournament finale, on September 11.

Indian fan tells Hasan Ali 'you've huge fan-following in India', pacer wins hearts with epic reply - WATCH

Rishabh Pant's omission from India's playing XI for their Asia Cup opening clash versus Pakistan made heads turn. Not many would've expected Pant to be left out -- given his rise at the highest level in recent times -- despite Dinesh Karthik also doing well as a finisher in the shortest format.

Rohit Sharma-led India, however, pulled off a suprise by going ahead with Karthik for the Pakistan clash. Opting to bowl first in Dubai, India dismissed Pakistan for 147 in 19.5 overs and later chased it down in the last over courtesy of Virat Kohli's 34-ball 35, Ravindra Jadeja's 29-ball 35 (who came to bat at No. 4) and Hardik's 17-ball 33 not out (along with his three scalps) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-kapil-dev-explains-why-virat-kohli-is-a-bigger-player-than-anyone-else-in-last-10-years-511754">Asia Cup: Kapil Dev explains why Virat Kohli is 'a bigger player than anyone else in last 10 years'</a>

Ahead of India's clash versus Hong Kong, on Wednesday (August 31) at the same venue, former Indian-opener-turned-expert Aakash Chopra shared his pick among Pant and DK.

"Can there be any changes done in this match? I feel there is one change that should but will not happen. If you have to play Jaddu (Jadeja) at No. 4 and you need a left-hander at No. 4 for sure, if you can't do without that, then play Rishabh Pant because, at No. 7, you are doing a grave injustice to Dinesh Karthik also," Chopra said in a video on his YouTube channel.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-this-is-a-question-out-of-my-book-ravindra-jadeja-on-rishabh-pants-absence-from-pakistan-clash-511703">WATCH: 'This is a question out of my book' - Jadeja on Pant's omission from India's XI vs Pakistan</a>

"What is the gain from batting there? A specialist does not play at No. 7, but I feel that is not going to happen. India are going to go with the same team in this match," he added.

Will India opt for a change? Will DK make way for Pant despite hardly getting a chance to bat versus Pakistan? Only time will tell...

Rishabh Pant's omission from India's playing XI for their Asia Cup opening clash versus Pakistan made heads turn. Not many would've expected Pant to be left out -- given his rise at the highest level in recent times -- despite Dinesh Karthik also doing well as a finisher in the shortest format.

Rishabh Pant's omission from India's playing XI for their Asia Cup opening clash versus Pakistan made heads turn. Not many would've expected Pant to be left out -- given his rise at the highest level in recent times -- despite Dinesh Karthik also doing well as a finisher in the shortest format. Rohit Sharma-led India, however, pulled off a suprise by going ahead with Karthik for the Pakistan clash. Opting to bowl first in Dubai, India dismissed Pakistan for 147 in 19.5 overs and later chased it down in the last over courtesy of Virat Kohli's 34-ball 35, Ravindra Jadeja's 29-ball 35 (who came to bat at No. 4) and Hardik's 17-ball 33 not out (along with his three scalps) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. ALSO READ | Asia Cup: Kapil Dev explains why Virat Kohli is 'a bigger player than anyone else in last 10 years' Ahead of India's clash versus Hong Kong, on Wednesday (August 31) at the same venue, former Indian-opener-turned-expert Aakash Chopra shared his pick among Pant and DK. "Can there be any changes done in this match? I feel there is one change that should but will not happen. If you have to play Jaddu (Jadeja) at No. 4 and you need a left-hander at No. 4 for sure, if you can't do without that, then play Rishabh Pant because, at No. 7, you are doing a grave injustice to Dinesh Karthik also," Chopra said in a video on his YouTube channel. ALSO READ | WATCH: 'This is a question out of my book' - Jadeja on Pant's omission from India's XI vs Pakistan "What is the gain from batting there? A specialist does not play at No. 7, but I feel that is not going to happen. India are going to go with the same team in this match," he added. Will India opt for a change? Will DK make way for Pant despite hardly getting a chance to bat versus Pakistan? Only time will tell...

Rishabh Pant or Dinesh Karthik? Aakash Chopra shares his pick for India's Asia Cup clash vs Hong Kong

Rishabh Pant's omission from Team India's playing XI for their Asia Cup 2022 opener, versus arch-rivals Pakistan, made a lot of noise. While Pant hasn't taken the shortest format by a storm so far in his brief career, his returns in Tests and maiden ODI century during the England tour continue to keep him in the scheme of things&nbsp;in T20Is.

Pant's power-hitting is well known, with good numbers in the IPL, and&nbsp;his stocks are rising at regular intervals at the international arena. However, Dinesh Karthik was preferred over Pant&nbsp;--&nbsp;who has done well as a finisher in the format following his comeback into the national setup since the South Africa home T20Is in June.

Ahead of India's match versus Hong Kong, in Dubai on Wednesday evening (August 31), all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja was asked to elaborate on Pant's non-selection in the high-voltage Indo-Pak clash, where Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. won by five wickets. To this, Jadeja gave an epic reaction.

He replied saying, "I absolutely don't know this. This is a question out of my book," he said. Here's the viral video from the India-Hong Kong pre-match press conference in Dubai:

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<a href="https://t.co/XqQb1vcbiU">pic.twitter.com/XqQb1vcbiU</a>
— Guess Karo (@KuchNahiUkhada) <a href="https://twitter.com/KuchNahiUkhada/status/1564677707539038210?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 30, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO&nbsp;READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/there-was-a-rumour-that-i-died-ravindra-jadeja-unfazed-by-specualtions-focused-on-delivering-for-india-511554">'There was a rumour that I died': Ravindra Jadeja unfazed by speculations, focused on delivering for India</a>

Talking about Rohit-led India's run in the Asia Cup, being held in the shortest format in the UAE, the Men in Blue will look to go past Hong Kong and cement their spot in the Super Four round. The seven-time champions&nbsp;beat&nbsp;Pakistan by five wickets on Sunday (August 28) in an encounter that went down to the wire. Hardik's 3/25 and Bhuvneshwar Kumar's 4-26 dismissed Men in Green for 147 in 19.5 overs after they were asked to bat first.

In reply, Jadeja's 29-ball 35 and Hardik's 17-ball 33 not out took India past the finish line.

Rishabh Pant's omission from Team India's playing XI for their Asia Cup 2022 opener, versus arch-rivals Pakistan, made a lot of noise. While Pant hasn't taken the shortest format by a storm so far in his brief career, his returns in Tests and maiden ODI century during the England tour continue to keep him in the scheme of things in T20Is.

Rishabh Pant's omission from Team India's playing XI for their Asia Cup 2022 opener, versus arch-rivals Pakistan, made a lot of noise. While Pant hasn't taken the shortest format by a storm so far in his brief career, his returns in Tests and maiden ODI century during the England tour continue to keep him in the scheme of things in T20Is. Pant's power-hitting is well known, with good numbers in the IPL, and his stocks are rising at regular intervals at the international arena. However, Dinesh Karthik was preferred over Pant -- who has done well as a finisher in the format following his comeback into the national setup since the South Africa home T20Is in June. Ahead of India's match versus Hong Kong, in Dubai on Wednesday evening (August 31), all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja was asked to elaborate on Pant's non-selection in the high-voltage Indo-Pak clash, where Rohit Sharma & Co. won by five wickets. To this, Jadeja gave an epic reaction. He replied saying, "I absolutely don't know this. This is a question out of my book," he said. Here's the viral video from the India-Hong Kong pre-match press conference in Dubai: pic.twitter.com/XqQb1vcbiU — Guess Karo (@KuchNahiUkhada) August 30, 2022 × ALSO READ | 'There was a rumour that I died': Ravindra Jadeja unfazed by speculations, focused on delivering for India Talking about Rohit-led India's run in the Asia Cup, being held in the shortest format in the UAE, the Men in Blue will look to go past Hong Kong and cement their spot in the Super Four round. The seven-time champions beat Pakistan by five wickets on Sunday (August 28) in an encounter that went down to the wire. Hardik's 3/25 and Bhuvneshwar Kumar's 4-26 dismissed Men in Green for 147 in 19.5 overs after they were asked to bat first. In reply, Jadeja's 29-ball 35 and Hardik's 17-ball 33 not out took India past the finish line.

WATCH: 'This is a question out of my book' - Jadeja on Pant's omission from India's XI vs Pakistan

India are set to take on Hong Kong in their second game in the ongoing Asia Cup 2022 edition, being held in the UAE, on Wednesday evening (August 31). Team India is coming into this match on the back of a humdinger versus arch-rivals Pakistan, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai, on Sunday evening (August 28).&nbsp;

India opened their campaign versus Babar Azam-led Men in Green and the match went down to the wire. Opting to bowl first, Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. dismissed the opposition in 19.5 overs for 147. Bhuvneshwar Kumar (4/26) and Hardik Pandya (3/25) stood tall with the ball before Hardik's 17-ball 33 not out and Ravindra Jadeja's crucial 29-ball 35 took India past the finish line in the last over, after being 89-4 at one stage.&nbsp;

For Hong Kong, they have qualified for the main draw of the tournament but has a herculean task to challenge India and Pakistan in their upcoming group stage encounters. Will they be as competitive as they were in 2018 edition&nbsp;versus the Men in Blue, where they lost by only 26 runs in pursuit of 286? Here's everything to know about the live streaming details of the clash:

Here is all you need to know about the India-Hong Kong clash in Asia Cup 2022:

When will India face Hong Kong&nbsp;in Asia Cup 2022?

India will take on Hong Kong in their second game of the Asia Cup 2022 on Wednesday (August 31).

At what time will the Asia Cup 2022 clash between India and Hong Kong get underway?

The India-Hong Kong tie in Asia Cup 2022 will commence&nbsp;at 7:30 PM IST.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-this-is-a-question-out-of-my-book-ravindra-jadeja-on-rishabh-pants-absence-from-pakistan-clash-511703">WATCH: 'This is a question out of my book' - Ravindra Jadeja on Rishabh Pant's absence from Pakistan clash</a>

What are the predicted playing XIs for the India-Hong Kong&nbsp;tie in Asia Cup 2022?

India -&nbsp;Rohit Sharma (c), KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Dinesh Karthik/Rishabh Pant (wk), Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Avesh Khan/R. Ashwin, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh

Hong Kong -&nbsp;Nizakat Khan (c), Yasim Murtaza, Babar Hayat, Kinchit Shah, Aizaz Khan, Scott McKechnie (wk), Zeeshan Ali, Haroon Arshad, Ehsan Khan, Mohammad Ghazanfar, Ayush Shukla

How to watch the Asia Cup 2022 clash between India and Hong Kong?

Star Sports will broadcast the&nbsp;clash in India and the live streaming will be available on the Hotstar app and website.

India are set to take on Hong Kong in their second game in the ongoing Asia Cup 2022 edition, being held in the UAE, on Wednesday evening (August 31). Team India is coming into this match on the back of a humdinger versus arch-rivals Pakistan, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai, on Sunday evening (August 28).

India are set to take on Hong Kong in their second game in the ongoing Asia Cup 2022 edition, being held in the UAE, on Wednesday evening (August 31). Team India is coming into this match on the back of a humdinger versus arch-rivals Pakistan, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai, on Sunday evening (August 28). India opened their campaign versus Babar Azam-led Men in Green and the match went down to the wire. Opting to bowl first, Rohit Sharma & Co. dismissed the opposition in 19.5 overs for 147. Bhuvneshwar Kumar (4/26) and Hardik Pandya (3/25) stood tall with the ball before Hardik's 17-ball 33 not out and Ravindra Jadeja's crucial 29-ball 35 took India past the finish line in the last over, after being 89-4 at one stage. For Hong Kong, they have qualified for the main draw of the tournament but has a herculean task to challenge India and Pakistan in their upcoming group stage encounters. Will they be as competitive as they were in 2018 edition versus the Men in Blue, where they lost by only 26 runs in pursuit of 286? Here's everything to know about the live streaming details of the clash: Here is all you need to know about the India-Hong Kong clash in Asia Cup 2022: When will India face Hong Kong in Asia Cup 2022? India will take on Hong Kong in their second game of the Asia Cup 2022 on Wednesday (August 31). At what time will the Asia Cup 2022 clash between India and Hong Kong get underway? The India-Hong Kong tie in Asia Cup 2022 will commence at 7:30 PM IST. ALSO READ | WATCH: 'This is a question out of my book' - Ravindra Jadeja on Rishabh Pant's absence from Pakistan clash What are the predicted playing XIs for the India-Hong Kong tie in Asia Cup 2022? India - Rohit Sharma (c), KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Dinesh Karthik/Rishabh Pant (wk), Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Avesh Khan/R. Ashwin, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh Hong Kong - Nizakat Khan (c), Yasim Murtaza, Babar Hayat, Kinchit Shah, Aizaz Khan, Scott McKechnie (wk), Zeeshan Ali, Haroon Arshad, Ehsan Khan, Mohammad Ghazanfar, Ayush Shukla How to watch the Asia Cup 2022 clash between India and Hong Kong? Star Sports will broadcast the clash in India and the live streaming will be available on the Hotstar app and website.

Asia Cup 2022, IND vs HK live streaming: When and where to watch India vs Hong Kong match?

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

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