After a convincing 3-0 series sweep against Afghanistan, Babar Azam’s Pakistan, now the top-ranked ODI team globally, gears up to kick off their Asia Cup campaign at home. Their debut match in Multan on Wednesday sets the stage for a showdown against Asia Cup newcomers Nepal.

Babar Azam, who showcased his prowess with 113 runs in the Afghanistan series, captains a formidable squad featuring a dynamic fast bowling trio comprising Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf.

The excitement escalates as World Cup hosts India, led by Rohit Sharma, prepare to face Pakistan in a much-awaited clash on Saturday at Pallekele. This fierce rivalry, unique to international tournaments due to enduring political tensions, is expected to extend beyond the group stage. A potential face-off in the Super Four and even a third encounter in the final could be on the cards.

Rohit Sharma maintains a pragmatic perspective amid the heated anticipation, reminding that the competition involves more than just Pakistan. Sri Lanka’s triumph in the previous year and other competitive teams add depth to the tournament.

The return of KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer bolsters India’s batting arsenal alongside stalwarts Virat Kohli, Shubman Gill, and Rohit Sharma. With the 50-over World Cup on the horizon, the Asia Cup serves as an ideal arena for India to assess their mettle under pressure.

The 50-over World Cup is set to commence on October 5 in India, and teams are keen to fine-tune their strategies in the Asia Cup preceding it.

Sri Lanka, the reigning Asia Cup champions from the T20 format in Dubai, faces injury setbacks in their quest to defend their title. Ahead of their opener against Bangladesh in Kandy, fast bowler Dushmantha Chameera’s shoulder injury casts doubt on his participation, while leg-spinner Wanindu Hasaranga’s availability is uncertain due to a recent thigh strain.

Bangladesh grapples with challenges of their own, as Tamim Iqbal relinquishes captaincy due to a back injury, aiming to regain fitness for the World Cup. Shakib Al Hasan steps back into the captain’s role, hoping to lead the team to success as he did between 2009 and 2017.

Despite their recent loss to Pakistan, Afghanistan remains a potent force with a spin attack led by Rashid Khan, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, and Mohammad Nabi. In-form batsman Rahmanullah Gurbaz adds to their arsenal, having smashed 151 runs in a valiant effort against Pakistan.

Nepal faces a baptism of fire in Group A, sharing the stage with cricket giants India and Pakistan. Meanwhile, Group B comprises Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan, promising a fiercely competitive showdown.