India will also gain confidence from the fact that they have already beaten Pakistan at the league stage
Release date – 23rd July 22nd (Saturday) at 11:45pm
Colombo: India A will be eager to assert their dominance in the burgeoning Asian Cup tournament with a potential high-pressure summit clash with Pakistan A here on Sunday.
Generally, it is difficult to pick the favorites in a matchup between India and Pakistan, but in this case, the former emerged as the clear frontrunners.
India will also take confidence from the fact that they have already beaten Pakistan at the league stage.
This crop of young Indian players has a lot of flair in their game, but beneath the glamour, there is a ruthless determination to win no matter what the circumstances.
The semi-final against Bangladesh epitomized this characteristic. India came out with 211 runs, a sub-par overall even in a poor performance at the R Premadasa course.
Bangladesh’s opener played well in this tournament, scoring more than 6 points from the start. They went 94-1 in the 18th inning and looked set for a smooth win.
But Indian spinners Nishant Sindhu and Manav Suthar have since dominated the stage, beating Bangladesh by 160 runs. Captain Yash Dhull also scored a crucial 66 and his defense and defense were spot on as India clinched a victory that at one stage looked unlikely.
This cohesion within the squad will be India’s main weapon going into the final against Pakistan.
Having said that, it would be naive to underestimate Pakistan. They are a talented team with many players having extensive international competition and Pakistan Super League (PSL) experience.
All-rounder Mohammad Wasim, captain Mohammad Harris, opener Sahibzada Farhan and pacer Arshad Iqbal have all had a taste of international cricket. And players like Amad Butt and Omair Yousuf have proven themselves in the PSL.
As such, Pakistan will want to view the league stage defeat as an aberration and be eager for penitent action.
However, India will believe they have all the cards to neutralize Pakistan’s allegations.
