The Asia Cup commences today with the inaugural match between Pakistan and Nepal in Multan. The tournament adopts the one-day format, serving as a significant prelude to the World Cup scheduled for India in October.
The event is considered a rehearsal for the cricketing giants of Asia. The participating teams – Pakistan, India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan – are all set to participate in both the Asia Cup and the upcoming World Cup. Each team comes with its own strengths: some take pride in their pacers, some are banking on their batsmen, some find solace in their spinners, and others anticipate a dual-threat from their all-rounders, making the tournament exceptionally riveting.
Originally meant to be hosted by Pakistan, the Asia Cup underwent changes due to India’s refusal to participate. Consequently, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) implemented a hybrid model, granting Pakistan 4 matches while the remaining 9, including the final, will be hosted by Sri Lanka. Pakistan kicks off their campaign against Nepal, with a high-stakes clash against India scheduled for September 2nd at Paley Kelly. Led by Babar Azam, Pakistan’s recent elevation to the top spot in the ODI rankings following a clean sweep against Afghanistan has bolstered team morale. The focus is now on securing the title of Asian champions.
Even in conditions favoring Sri Lanka’s spinners, Pakistani pacers have performed admirably. In the opening match, Haris Rauf claimed 5 wickets, dismantling Afghanistan’s hopes. Although Pakistan faced defeat in the second match, their newfound approach of resilience and refusal to surrender was evident. While the top and middle order stumbled, Shadab took control. Amidst a controversial run-out of Shadab and Naseem Shah, the latter held his composure and played the winning shot. The third match further highlighted Pakistan’s overall improvement in all aspects of the game.
The team’s morale is soaring, with the top order required to lay a strong foundation and the middle order shouldering its responsibilities. Captain Babar Azam undoubtedly carries significant expectations, yet Fakhar Zaman, Imamul Haq, Muhammad Rizwan, and others must also contribute. Rohit Sharma leads India, shouldering expectations for the top order. Both Sharma and Virat Kohli were rested after the initial match of the West Indies ODI series, and their contributions to the team’s total are highly anticipated. The spinners aim to restrict the opposition to low scores.
Sri Lanka, being the co-hosts, possess the home advantage and familiarity with the conditions, rendering them slight favorites. However, overconfidence and haste could hinder their path. Their spinners are eager to showcase their prowess, while the batsmen must demonstrate responsibility.
Shakib-ul-Hasan has reassumed leadership of Bangladesh, whereas Tamim Iqbal’s departure from the one-day team due to a back problem has led to his absence from the Asia Cup as well. Afghanistan heavily relies on their spin talents, as seen in their recent series against Pakistan. Although the Nepalese team may not hold high hopes, they stand to gain valuable experience from this event.
