The much-anticipated rivalry between India and Pakistan is set to reignite, this time on Sunday, 10 September 2023 at 3:00 PM in Colombo.
However, rain continues to be a significant threat, with rain chances increasing up to 90%. This IND vs PAK match is now the only one, apart from the Asia Cup 2023 final, to have a reserve day. But the weather forecast for both days remains uncertain.
India’s previous match against Nepal was also impacted by rain, and in Colombo, they are looking to assess the readiness of KL Rahul and Jasprit Bumrah for the ODI World Cup.
Rahul hasn’t played an ODI since March, and Bumrah hasn’t bowled in one since July. To give Rahul a chance in the playing XI, India’s team management may have to consider benching Ishan Kishan, who has delivered four consecutive half-centuries in the format. Tough decisions lie ahead.
For India, this match offers an opportunity to test the readiness of key players. KL Rahul and Jasprit Bumrah, crucial members of the Indian squad, have been on the sidelines due to injuries.
Their return to the playing XI will be closely monitored, and their performance will be crucial in India’s quest for victory.
During the limited play in Pallekele, India’s batsmen and Pakistan’s bowlers set the stage for a gripping contest. Colombo might offer more of the same, or it could be dominated by rain over two days.
Yet, everyone craves to see an India vs Pakistan match in its entirety, especially now, with a World Cup on the horizon in familiar “home” conditions.
Both teams understand they have a genuine shot at glory. This is the perfect opportunity for them to assess each other, establish local dominance, and land the first blow.
IND vs PAK Super 4: Key Battles
India’s Top Order vs. Pakistan’s Bowling: India’s top-order batters will be determined to make amends after a subpar performance in their previous encounter. They face a stern challenge from Pakistan’s formidable bowling attack, led by the likes of Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah.
Pakistan’s Batting vs. India’s Bowling: Pakistan’s batting unit has shown promise in this tournament, but they will face a stern test against India’s bowling attack. Jasprit Bumrah’s return adds potency to India’s pace battery, while the spin of Ravindra Jadeja could prove crucial.
Fielding and Catching: Fielding and catching will be critical in a high-pressure contest like this. Both teams will need to be sharp in the field and make the most of any opportunities that come their way.
Asia Cup 2023: IND vs PAK Predicted Playing XI
India: Rohit Sharma(c), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Ishan Kishan(w), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur/Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj
Pakistan: Fakhar Zaman, Imam-ul-Haq, Babar Azam (c), Mohammad Rizwan (w), Agha Salman, Iftikhar Ahmed, Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf
Also Read: IND vs PAK Today Match Prediction, Match 9, India vs Pakistan, 10th September August 2023
