India and Pakistan are prepared to renew their cricket rivalry as they go head-to-head in the Asia Cup 2023 match at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium on Saturday, September 2nd. This Group A showdown marks their initial encounter since the thrilling match in the 2022 T20 World Cup at MCG, where India emerged victorious thanks to Virat Kohli’s exceptional batting on the final ball.
As per usual, the lead-up to the upcoming India vs Pakistan match in Pallekele has been filled with extensive excitement. Past and present cricket players from both countries have openly expressed their opinions on the highly awaited contest and the renowned rivalry between India and Pakistan.
Nevertheless, there’s a possibility of disappointment as adverse weather might impact the eagerly anticipated Asia Cup 2023 match between India and Pakistan on Saturday. As indicated by the majority of weather applications, the likelihood of rain occurring during the India-Pakistan match is over 90 percent. Additionally, there’s a chance of thunderstorms, which is an extra source of worry.
Despite the concerns, cricket enthusiasts can hold onto some optimism. Similar weather predictions of rain and thunderstorms were made for the Sri Lanka vs Bangladesh match on Thursday. However, except for a short rain delay, the match proceeded without major issues, resulting in a smooth contest where Sri Lanka secured a five-wicket victory in a low-scoring affair.
India will contemplate their lineup choices against Pakistan due to KL Rahul’s absence
During a press conference before the tournament, Rahul Dravid, the head coach of Team India, confirmed that wicketkeeper-batsman KL Rahul won’t be participating in the team’s initial two matches due to fitness concerns.
In the prior month’s announcement of the Asia Cup 2023 squad, Ajit Agarkar, the chief selector of BCCI, disclosed that Rahul had encountered a minor injury unrelated to his initial thigh ailment, which he had sustained during IPL 2023. Even though Shreyas Iyer, who is returning after a back injury, has been deemed fit, it remains intriguing to observe who will take up Rahul’s position.
Ishan Kishan is included in the squad as the second wicketkeeper-batsman, while Suryakumar Yadav has been retained in the Asia Cup squad despite facing difficulties in the one-day format. The Indian team might consider granting a first appearance to the young talent Tilak Varma, who showcased a remarkable beginning to his international journey during the T20 matches in the West Indies.
Before this, wicketkeeper-batsman Sanju Samson was designated as an alternate member of the Indian squad due to Rahul’s injury.
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