The cricketing world is bracing for an enthralling encounter as India is poised to clash with Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2023 opener. Scheduled for September 2, Saturday, this high-voltage match will be played at Sri Lanka's Pallekele International Cricket Stadium. Given the proximity of the ODI World Cup 2023, to be held in India during October and November, this Asia Cup fixture is deemed a crucial preparatory match for both cricketing giants.
Pakistan's ace wicketkeeper-batter, Mohammad Rizwan, offered insights into this iconic rivalry in a candid chat with Star Sports. He emphasized the significance of managing pressure in such intense encounters. Rizwan acknowledged the caliber of both teams, noting that each has its unique strengths and areas to improve.
"India are also a good team, we are also a good team. India have their strengths and weaknesses, and we have too. It is a pressure match with the world watching it. According to me, a difference between the star player and a regular international player is experience. Whoever handles pressure will win the match," Rizwan said in a snippet uploaded by Star Sports on social media.
Currently, Pakistan is acclimatizing to Sri Lankan conditions, having recently concluded their 3-match ODI series against Afghanistan. Riding high on their recent successes, the Babar Azam-led team has ascended to the pinnacle of the ODI rankings as they gear up for the Asia Cup, which kicks off on 30th August. Before their much-anticipated face-off against India, Pakistan will be playing their opening match of the tournament against Nepal.
History further spices up this impending duel. The last ODI encounter between India and Pakistan dates back to the 2019 World Cup. A memorable match, it witnessed Rohit Sharma's scintillating 140 off 113 balls. Set a target of 337 runs, rain intervened, leading to a revised D/L target of 302 in 40 overs for Pakistan. They fell short by 89 runs, a testament to India's dominance in that fixture. Back then, Pakistan was steered by Captain Sarfaraz Ahmed.
This Asia Cup match promises not just a game of cricket, but a saga of passion, rivalry, and unparalleled skill. As anticipation mounts, fans across the world are eager to see which team emerges triumphant.
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