Asia Cup 2018: Indo-Pak fixture is the major highlight
The Asia Cup 2018 kicks off on Saturday in UAE as six nations are set to battle it out for the continental event. One of the major highlights of the tournament is the India vs Pakistan fixture. Besides the bragging rights, the teams would view this tournament as the perfect platform to prepare for the 2019 ICC World Cup.
Indo-Pak would be a high octane encounter
India and Pakistan are drawn in Pool A and they would lock horns on September 19. The Asia Cup is one of the rare tournaments that boasts of a Indo-Pak fixture. India and Pakistan had last met in a bilateral series in 2012-13. This is one series, outside global tournaments, that attracts interest. Both teams are playing well and this should be a cracker.
Pak bowlers versus Indian batting to decide the match
Virat Kohli-less Indian team will not be taking Pakistan lightly. This is a litmus test for stand-in skipper Rohit Sharma, who will be keen to lead the side well. The Pakistani pacers versus Indian batsmen has always been the main talking point and this remains the main battle, even in 2018. Can India trump Pakistan in conditions suitable for their arch-rivals?
2019 World Cup preparations another highlight
The likes of Sri Lanka, Afghanistan and Bangladesh will want to use this tournament to prepare for the World Cup in 2019. Since players will be fighting for Playing XI spots, they will come out and produce top class cricket.
Possibility scenario of India and Pakistan meeting thrice
Fans will be hoping these two sides also meet in the finale on September 28. The two nations are set to meet twice once in the group stage and then in the Super 4. The possibility of India and Pakistan meeting thrice is something everyone is excited about. This is what makes the Asia Cup 2018 interesting.
TV listing and timing
One can watch the matches live on the Star Sports network in both English and Hindi commentary. The matches can also be streamed live on Hotstar. All matches will begin at 5:00 PM IST.
