Xtra Time Web Desk: All eyes will be on Virat Kohli as India will kick start its campaign in Asia Cup 2022 against arch rivals Pakistan on Sunday at the Dubai International Stadium. It will be a perfect opportunity for Rohit Sharma led Indian team to take a sweet revenge for the loss against Pakistan in T20 World Cup 10 months back at the same venue. Lets take a look how the teams stand:
INDIA
K L Rahul and Virat Kohli are back in the tournament after a long break. Virat Kohli was not a part of the team for the 2018 Asia Cup. Almost after 6 years, Virat Kohli will play this tournament. His off-form is really a major concern, still the nation is waiting to see his 71st century. Last year in the T20 World Cup, he scored 57 off 49 balls against Pakistan. Since the T20 World Cup, India have played 24 T20 Internationals, but the trio of Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul and Virat Kohli have not featured in any of them.
The absence of Jasprit Bumrah and Harshal patel in this crucial tournament can be a sign of worry but Arshdeep Singh and Avesh Khan have to compensate the gaps. Besides, the form of Bhuvneshwar Kumar has been impressive this year. He has the most powerplay wickets. Out of 12 innings, he got 9 wickets with a 5.42 Economy rate. Can he stop the Babar-Rizwan storm if it occurs like the previous year?
The comeback of all rounder Hardik Pandya before the tournament is also a positive sign for India. Surya Kumar Yadav’s recent batting performances sparked the middle order. His sparkling form may create a concern for Pakistan tomorrow.
PAKISTAN
On the other hand Babar Azam has a terrific form along with Mohammad Rizwan. Last year this duo snatched the victory away from India by 10 Wickets. Will they repeat again? Last Year’s Player Of The Match, Shaheen Shah Afridi is out of the tournament due to injury along with Mohammad Wasim Jr. There will be an immense pressure on Haris Rauf and Naseem Shah. Hasan Ali has been included in the squad at the last moment.
Weather Report (As per the authentic sources)
Temperature during Day: 39°Celsius
Temperature during Night: 30° Celsius
Humidity during Day: 36%
Humidity during Night: 45%
There is just 3% chance of rain at night. Hopefully, the match will not be affected by rain.
Over View:
At this stadium, the average 1st Innings total in T20Is is 142 and the average 2nd Innings total is 124. The Highest ever total of this stadium is 211/3. As per the pitch, spinners will get an added advantage.
DATE: 28th August, 2022 (Sunday)
Time: 7:30 PM IST
Venue: Dubai International Cricket Stadium, United Arab Emirates.
Toss: 7:00 PM
Till Date India vs Pakistan Head to Head:
• Total- 9
• India- 7
• Pakistan 2
• Draw- 0
• Tied- 0
Can India come back stronger and take revenge from Pakistan?