Pakistan regained the momentum against India as the pacers gave three consecutive blows to the arch-rivals in the most awaited Asia Cup 2023 clash being played in Kandy.
After Pakistani pacers dismissed four key batters early on Saturday, the Indian middle-order fought back and managed to score above 130 by the 27th over.
However, the Pakistan pacers struck again and gave three consecutive blows to the Men in Green. The lethal bowling spell brought the team back into the game at a crucial point.
Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf each picked three wickets, while the last two dismissals Shardul Thakur and Kuldeep Yadav came from Naseem Shah.
As the light reached its peak through the clouds during the toss, Rohit claimed India was ready to “embrace the challenge” in their first encounter of the tournament.
Pakistan skipper Babar Azam, who hopes to bat first, stated that the Green Shirts will strive to grab early wickets.
“The Asia Cup is great because it features the best teams in the world.” We have a good opportunity before the World Cup. “We will give it our all in this Asia Cup,” he remarked.
Azam also stated that the team’s lineup “is the same” and has not changed.
“When you perform, always do it confidently.” We will strive to capitalise on this optimism. You are aware that Pakistan-India matches are high-intensity affairs. “We’re cool and calm,” he said.
