Former Sri Lankan captain Mahela Jayawardene believes Asia Cup has played an important role in the development of Asian cricket. He further added that Afghanistan is going to add more spice in this 2018 Asia Cup.

In his recent column for the Times of India, Jayawardene wrote, “The Asia Cup has played an important role in the development of cricket in Asia and this year’s tournament in the UAE has even more spice by the emergence of a fifth major force in the region, Afghanistan, a team full of street-smart mystery. The tournament has played a really valuable role in providing a platform for the emergence of new talent.”

Also read: Rohit Sharma Shares Team India’s Goals

Sri Lanka is one of the successful teams in this tournament history as they have reached the final for 11 times out of 12 ODI formats and won this tournament for five times. Jayawardene shares what his best moment in this tournament history and what is the expectation from the present Sri Lankan team.

He wrote, “For me, it was the stunning arrival of Ajantha Mendis back in 2008 in Pakistan, where he bamboozled all opponents with his unique style. I am confident we will see some new stars emerge this time, too.”

Talking about the speciality of this tournament, Jayawardene mentions the India-Pakistan contest. Jayawardene believes Indian cricket team is still strong despite Virat Kohli’s absence, while Pakistan has a home like advantage in UAE.

Also read: Venkatesh Prasad believes India will start the Asia Cup as favourites

Jayawardene wrote, “The tournament is of course special also because it’s one of the few occasions when we get to witness the spectacle and drama of an India-Pakistan contest. It’s always a mouth-watering one and millions will be looking forward to the big game next Wednesday. Both teams are probably also the favourites going into the tournament, although it remains an open competition by virtue of the fact that no team is dominating away from home right now.”

Also read: Asia Cup: Sourav Ganguly Picks his Favorite Team

“India, even without Virat Kohli, have some formidable players and a great balance. Pakistan, meanwhile, always have that X-factor. They have the greater experience of UAE conditions. It being their second home for the past decade but that won’t be an overwhelming advantage as conditions will be familiar for all teams. Pakistan can draw upon their fast bowlers, as they have done historically. They have form in multination tournaments, having won the last ICC Champions Trophy.”