India will start their Asia Cup campaign against arch-rivals Pakistan in match number 3 of the 2023 Asia Cup to be played at Palleke International Stadium, Kandy on 2nd September. It promises to be an exciting encounter between two top Asian powerhouses.
Rohit Sharma’s led side would look to start their tournament on a winning note. A total of 13 matches and 50 Asia Cup matches were played between these two teams with India winning 7 while Pakistan 5 and 1 no-result. The previous match in Asia Cup history saw India thrash Pakistan by 9 wickets in Dubai.
On the other hand, Pakistan thrashed Nepal by 238 runs in their opening match played at Multan Cricket Stadium, Multan.
Here we look at the 3 reasons why India is the favourite to win against Pakistan in tomorrow’s match.
- Top Order
The Indian top order comprises of Shubman Gil, Rohit Sharma, and Virat Kohli. Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill have a great record as the opening pair in the One-day international format. They would be looking to give India a decent start against the top-quality pace bowling unit of Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf.
Virat Kohli enjoys batting at number 3 in One-day international format. He would be eager to come with another magical performance against Pakistan bowling to ensure that India wins the opening encounter.
As far as Pakistan is concerned, Fakhar Zaman and Imam UL Haq failed cheaply against Nepal while Pakistan captain Babar Azam scored a brilliant 151 to help Pakistan pose a mammoth total.
- Quality Spin Bowling
The Indian spin bowling department looks better as the pitch at Palleke International Stadium, Kandy is slow and low. Kuldeep Yadav has been in excellent form and will play a key role in picking up wickets in the middle overs.
Ravindra Jadeja is a decent bowler with a stump-to-stump line which will be a threat for Pakistan batters. The question remains whether Axar Patel will be included as the third spinner, or third pacer will be included for tomorrow’s match. Kuldeep Yadav has the ability to trouble batters with his variations which could be a big factor.
Pakistan has two quality spinners Shahbad Khan and Mohammad Nawaz in playing XI. Salman Ali Agha can roll his arm over.
- Potent Pace Bowling Attack
The Indian pace bowling department will be strengthened by the return of Jasprit Bumrah. He along with Mohammed Shami and Mohammed could create a big impact in the first 10 overs.
Bumrah, Shami, and Siraj would be looking to pick early wickets, especially Fakhar Zaman, Imam, and their captain Babar Azam. If these three pacers can do the job, then India will be the favourite to register a win over arch-rivals Pakistan to start their Asia Cup 2023 on a winning note.
Bumrah bowled brilliantly in his international comeback and would be eager to showcase his abilities during the match tomorrow.
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