As the Asia Cup 2023 continues its gripping journey in Sri Lanka, the cricket world eagerly anticipates the face-off between India and Pakistan in the Super Fours stage at the renowned R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on September 10. With the Colombo weather expected to remain clear, it promises to be a thrilling contest.
In a recent chat on his YouTube channel, former India spinner Harbhajan Singh provided invaluable insights into India's game plan. Recalling Shaheen Afridi's remarkable performance where he secured four wickets against India during their group-stage encounter in Pallekele, Harbhajan emphasised, "India have to make sure that Shaheen does not get wickets. If he doesn't, the pressure will mount on the other bowlers."
Drawing upon the strategy further, he added that negating Afridi in the early overs could shift the pressure onto the Pakistani side. It's noteworthy that the India vs Pakistan group stage match couldn’t see its conclusion due to unexpected rain in IND vs PAK in Colombo, leading to a no-result situation.
"Once the pressure shifts, Pakistan's so-called World Class bowling lineup could scatter. If India gets the first batting chance, setting a target around 300 runs should be on the cards," added Harbhajan.
He also threw the spotlight on India's top-order batsmen. Pointing out the earlier underwhelming scores of Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill against Pakistan, he asserted, "If Rohit and Shubman can navigate the initial 15 overs against the new ball, India's position will be strong. It's essential that Gill, Rohit, and Kohli keep their focus and perhaps, set aside their egos when they're up against Pakistan's pacers. Even if the early runs aren't coming against Shaheen, maintaining their wicket is paramount."
Pakistan's journey in the Asia Cup has seen them playing two full matches so far, marking victories in both. In contrast, India has had its share of batting in one and a half matches, with their bowlers seeing action in just one game.
With the IND vs PAK Colombo Weather Report indicating a clear sky, and as fans keep an eye on Colombo Weather Live updates, this match promises to be a cricketing spectacle.
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