Asia Cup 2023: Men in Blue’s predicted XI against Pakistan

India will take on arch-rival Pakistan in their campaign opener of the ongoing Asia Cup on Saturday. Fans across the globe are excited for the high-octane clash.

After several months, Rohit-Sharma-led team will have a full strength squad for the very first time.

While senior batsman Shreyas Iyer and premier pacer Jasprit Bumrah will bolster the team, wicket-keeper batsman KL Rahul is set to miss first two games of Asia Cup due to niggles.

India’s predicted XI

Rohit Sharma (Captain): Rohit will have a tough challenge to face the fierce pacers of Pakistan and lead the high-octane game for which the expectations of the fans are sky high.

Shubman Gill: The promising batter’s form has dipped after his brilliant run in IPL 2023. India will hope that Gill will come back to form for the high-voltage clash.

Virat Kohli: The star batsman always gives his best against Pakistan. His performance will hold key for India.

Shreyas Iyer: The senior batsman is making a comeback to the team after a long lay-off. He must be aiming for a good start on his return. However, lack of match practice might be a concern for Iyer, but he will bank on his experience.

Ishan Kishan (Wicketkeeper): As KL Rahul will not play, Ishan Kishan will play as wicketkeeper in his place. He is in brilliant form and India will expect him to continue his attacking game.

Hardik Pandya (Vice-captain): The experienced all-rounder is another key player for India. The utility player has performed well against Pakistan in the past. He would aim to replicate it.

Ravindra Jadeja: The utility all-rounder will be effective on spin friendly pitch. Moreover, his attacking batting lower down the order will lend a balance to the team.

Kuldeep Yadav: Of late, the left-arm wrist spinner has performed really well. He has been picking wickets consistently for India and providing crucial breakthroughs.

Jasprit Bumrah: The premier pacer of Indian cricket team is back with a bang. He will lead the Indian bowling attack and his performance will play a key role in the game.

Mohammed Siraj: The right-arm pacer has improved in leaps and bounds. He is likely to get a chance in the high-voltage game.

Mohammed Shami: The experienced right-arm pacer has tremendous control over his line and length which makes him a special player. India will require Shami’s experience during pressure situation.