The Indian cricket team is gearing up for their highly-anticipated clash against arch-rivals Pakistan in the Super Four stage of the Asia Cup, scheduled for Sunday in Colombo. The team engaged in an intense practice session to prepare for the showdown. KL Rahul, who missed the first match against Pakistan due to a minor niggle, made his return to the nets. He faced deliveries from both left-arm and right-arm pacers, ensuring he is well-prepared to face Pakistan’s formidable bowling attack.
Rahul spent a significant amount of time honing his skills, eager to make an impact in his comeback match. Meanwhile, Shubman Gill also faced deliveries from right-arm bowlers, with a focus on handling swinging deliveries.
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Indian head coach Rahul Dravid, emphasizing the need for a deeper batting order, conducted a specific session with Shardul Thakur to prepare him for batting in the final overs, adding depth to the team’s batting lineup. Dravid also had a discussion with Shardul regarding his batting technique during the nets session.
Update on KL Rahul :
He was seen playing good shots – played shots like drives and punch – didn’t perform any WK practice. pic.twitter.com/nWSpbdQhUx
— Cric Point (@RealCricPoint) September 7, 2023
Captain Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli opted for rest during the optional practice session. The group stage encounter between India and Pakistan ended in a washout due to rain, with both teams earning a point each. In that match, India’s batting lineup faced difficulties against Pakistan’s pace attack, notably Shaheen Afridi, who claimed four wickets.
India posted a total of 266 runs in 48.5 overs, with Hardik Pandya contributing 87 and Ishan Kishan scoring 82, setting a competitive target. However, the match was ultimately abandoned without Pakistan getting the chance to bat.
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Pakistan’s skipper, Babar Azam, expressed his team’s commitment to giving their all in the much-anticipated clash against India in the Asia Cup Super Four. Pakistan commenced the Super Four stage with a convincing 7-wicket victory over Bangladesh at the Gaddafi Stadium. With both teams eager to claim victory, the upcoming match promises to be a thrilling encounter as the Asia Cup progresses towards a two-day break.