The El-Classico of World Cricket is set to take place in Dubai tomorrow when arch rivals India and Pakistan lock horns against each other in Asia Cup.
The last times, India faced Pakistan, India received perhaps their worst thrashing against their arch rivals when they were trounced by 10 wickets, handing their first defeat against Pakistan in World Cups.
However a lot of water has flown under the bridge and this time, the Indian team looks well prepared ahead of the high voltage encounter.
Today we will look at the 5 reasons of why India will be a step ahead of Pakistan in this epic clash.
No Shaheen Afridi: Shaheen Afridi's injury has to be the biggest positive for Team India as it was Shaheen Afridi who rattled the Indian top order and was the chief architect of India's dismal batting performance. With no left arm pacer around, the Indian openers will definitely heave a sign of relief.
Settled Batting Order: One of the major work that India has done ahead of the Asia Cup is that they have settled their batting order which was a cause of concern for them. With all big guns back and raring to go, India looks a formidable batting unit with the likes of Rohit, Virat, Rahul and Surya Kumar in it.
The Middle Order firepower: Another positive for India going into the clash is the form of Indian middle order. The likes of Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Rishabh Pant and even Dinesh Karthik are in good form and this might be India 's X-factor ahead of the clash. Hardik's availability as an all-rounder too is a major boost.
Bowling in unison: Indian bowlers failed to pick up a Pakistani batsman wicket last time round which drew a lot of criticism. However India's bowling unit looks tried and tested this time around. The likes of Bhubaneswar, Chahal, Jadeja and Arshdeep Singh are amongst the wickets and getting past them unscathed will be a tough task.
The Man called Virat Kohli: This has to be the biggest factor for India.Virat Kohli has been away from cricket for a while and is back for the epic clash. Virat Kohli looked in sublime form in the net sessions and has always been at its best against Pakistan. Virat is known for his performance in big matches and if Virat Kohli comes back to its elements in this match, Pakistan might have nothing to do it. Remember he looked dangerous last time too when India faced Pakistan.
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