Asia Cup 2018: Discussion points as India held by Afghanistan
What's the story
Afghanistan produced a scintillating brand of cricket to manage a tie against India in the Super Four battle of Asia Cup 2018. With India already in the final, this was a dead rubber. But the Afghans threw everything at India and didn't let them win as they bowled them out for 252. Earlier, Afghanistan had posted 252/8. Here are the key discussion points.
Openers
Opening partnership only positive for India
Both Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan were rested for this game, but the duo of KL Rahul and Ambati Rayudu still gave India a commendable opening partnership. Rayudu and Rahul played in a swift manner and didn't allow the Afghan bowlers to settle in. The 110-run stand saw runs flow easily from the bat. India look well resourced in opening.
Middle order
Middle order blemishes not a pretty sight
India's problems have largely been covered by the openers and skipper Virat Kohli off late. The middle order is the most vulnerable aspect of the Indian side. And against Afghanistan, the problems came to the fore. DK provided some solidity, but the rest of the batting failed. India got a reality check ahead of the final. The opposition will target this on September 28.
Bowling
Mixed day for bowling; pacers a weak link
India's spinners, once again, delivered for the side after picking 6 wickets between them. But it was the inexperienced pace department that failed to leave a mark. It is clearly visible that India don't have good back up options in the pace department. The pace bowlers didn't deliver goods last night. These are worrying signs for India.
Shahzad
Shahzad saves his best against the best
Afghanistan have played a brilliant brand of cricket throughout and that was visible in this match as well. Mohammad Shahzad played one of the best ODI innings of the Asia Cup and was terrific all by himself. The opener made the weak Indian pacers pay and dictated strongly against spinners as well. He was a key aspect for giving Afghanistan something to bowl.
Bowlers
Afghan bowlers spice it up
Afghanistan bowlers have been on top throughout the tourney and this match was no different. Despite not having any momentum, they hit back strongly to jolt India with repeated strikes in the middle innings. Mohammad Nabi was a treat to watch as he kept it simple and bowled slower. He was joined by the ever reliant Rashid Khan, who bowled an excellent final over.