India is gearing up for their ultimate Super 4s encounter against Bangladesh in the 2023 Asia Cup, scheduled to take place in Colombo on September 15th.
The Indian cricket team has exhibited remarkable prowess in the Asia Cup 2023, securing their position in the final after a thrilling 41-run triumph against Sri Lanka. This victory was particularly significant as it put an end to Sri Lanka's 13-match winning streak. The battle took place on a parched pitch at Colombo's R. Premadasa Stadium, where India's opening combination, both with the bat and the ball, made a significant impact. Guided by captain Rohit Sharma, who, alongside Shubman Gill, contributed to an impressive 80-run partnership, and complemented by the fiery spells of Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj, India clinched the victory.
Earlier in the tournament, India had trounced Pakistan by an enormous margin of 228 runs, claiming the top spot in the points table. This triumph also propelled India to possess the best net run rate (NRR) in the competition. In addition to these victories, India secured comprehensive wins over Nepal and arch-rivals Pakistan.
Several standout performers have shone throughout India's journey to the final. Rohit Sharma emerged as the highest run-scorer, accumulating 194 runs across four innings. Kuldeep Yadav, the talented left-arm wrist-spinner, currently leads the tournament's wicket-taking chart, with an impressive nine wickets from four matches, including a remarkable five-wicket haul against Pakistan. Jasprit Bumrah has marked his return to ODI cricket with a series of impressive displays, while all-rounder Hardik Pandya has demonstrated exceptional skill with the ball.
With their eyes set on the final, the Indian team now has the flexibility to make some changes and provide opportunities to fringe players during the less crucial match.
Considering the relative insignificance of the match in the grand scheme of things, India may opt to introduce some fresh faces into the lineup. A potential starting point for these changes could be at the top of the order, where skipper Rohit Sharma might be rested. Ishan Kishan, typically deployed in the middle order, could be promoted to open alongside Shubman Gill. Virat Kohli might also be given a break, paving the way for Shreyas Iyer's inclusion. KL Rahul is likely to retain his position at No.4, with either Suryakumar Yadav or Tilak Varma vying for a spot at No.5.
In Rohit's absence, Hardik Pandya is expected to captain the side. Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, and Kuldeep Yadav are likely to maintain their positions, given the preference for spinners in Colombo. Resting Jasprit Bumrah could open the door for Mohammed Shami's inclusion, alongside Mohammed Siraj.
Predicted Indian XI: Ishan Kishan, Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (wk), Suryakumar Yadav/Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya (c), Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj.
Bangladesh faces a forced change, with Mushfiqur Rahim returning home for personal reasons. Consequently, Litton Das will take over wicketkeeping duties, and Afif Hossain is likely to replace Rahim. Either Tanzim Hasan or Anamul Haque could partner Mehidy Hasan Miraz at the top of the order.
Predicted Bangladesh XI: Tanzid Hasan/Anamul Haque, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Litton Das (WK), Shakib Al Hasan (C), Towhid Hridoy, Afif Hossain, Shamim Hossain, Taskin Ahmed, Shoriful Islam, Hasan Mahmud, Nasum Ahmed.
