The India squad for the upcoming Asia Cup 2023 has been officially announced, just days before the tournament kicks off. This prestigious event will commence on August 30, with an exciting match between Pakistan and Nepal. Team India’s first game of the tournament will be against arch-rivals Pakistan on September 2. It is worth mentioning that India holds a remarkable record in the competition, having clinched seven titles so far.
In comparison, Sri Lanka has won six titles, while Pakistan has secured two. Therefore, India will strive to perform exceptionally well in this tournament to bolster their confidence ahead of the 2023 ODI World Cup on home soil. With the inclusion of players like KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer, Jasprit Bumrah, and Prashid Krishna back into the squad, Team India’s chances are further strengthened. Now let’s take a look at the best playing XI for India in the Asia Cup 2023.
Also Read: Asia Cup 2023 India Squad: Best Number 4, 5 and 6 for Team India
Here is the predicted playing XI of Team India for the Asia Cup 2023.
1. Rohit Sharma (c)
Leading the team as captain, Rohit Sharma will be taking on the role of opening the innings and setting the tone for India. With his previous success in guiding India to victory in the 2018 Asia Cup, Rohit has another opportunity to showcase his skills and build hope among fans ahead of the World Cup. Among active players, Rohit holds the record for being the highest scorer in the Asia Cup, with an impressive tally of 745 runs in 21 innings at an average of 46.56, including one century and six half-centuries.
2. Shubman Gill
As confirmed by Ajit Agarkar during a press conference, it has been decided that Shubman Gill will partner with Rohit Sharma as India’s preferred opening combination. At just 23 years old, Gill has already established himself as a regular opener across formats through consistent performances over the past year or so. Although this will be Gill’s first appearance in the Asia Cup, his numbers from 2023 indicate a promising start to his career.
3. Virat Kohli
When it comes to batting at No. 3, there are few players who can match the sheer ability and skill of Virat Kohli. Widely recognized as one of the best batters in modern-day cricket, Kohli aims to replicate his outstanding performance from the last Asia Cup in 2022 where he emerged as India’s top run-scorer. Since then, Kohli’s form has remained impeccable across different formats and he is poised to play a crucial role for India throughout this tournament.
4. Shreyas Iyer
Shreyas Iyer has emerged as a significant asset for the Indian cricket team, consistently delivering match-winning performances in the middle order, particularly in ODIs. His absence due to injury was deeply felt by India, despite the efforts of Sanju Samson and Suryakumar Yadav to fill his shoes. However, with Iyer’s return, India can rely on him to deliver another extraordinary batting display at No. 4.
5. KL Rahul (wk)
After much anticipation, KL Rahul has made his comeback to the team following his recovery from injury. Since transitioning to the middle order, Rahul has brought impeccable balance to the squad. India faced some challenges in his absence but now that he is back after nearly five months, he will seize this opportunity to regain his form and contribute significantly on the field. Although there are reports of a minor niggle, it is not cause for major concern.
6. Hardik Pandya (vc)
Hardik Pandya’s presence provides invaluable balance to the Indian cricket team due to his exceptional skills with both bat and ball. The fact that he is now also taking up bowling duties with the new ball is an encouraging development for India. With his versatile abilities, Pandya plays a crucial role as a formidable all-rounder at No. 6 in the lineup. While he may have encountered some difficulties recently, there is no doubt that he possesses match-winning capabilities evident by his appointment as India’s vice-captain for this tournament.
7. Ravindra Jadeja
Ravindra Jadeja is widely regarded as one of the top all-rounders in international cricket today. His exceptional skills in batting, bowling, and fielding allow him to have a significant impact on any game he plays. In Sri Lanka, where spin-friendly pitches are prevalent, Jadeja’s abilities will be crucial for his team’s success. Currently leading the active players with 19 wickets in the Asia Cup, Jadeja has also made important contributions with the bat, scoring 152 runs at an average of 32.25.
8. Shardul Thakur
Shardul Thakur brings versatility to the Indian team as a bowling all-rounder who can also contribute with the bat lower down the order. He has consistently demonstrated his ability to take crucial wickets and break partnerships in key moments of matches. Furthermore, Thakur’s recent performances with the bat highlight his potential to provide depth to India’s batting lineup.
9. Kuldeep Yadav
The upcoming Asia Cup 2023 holds immense importance for Kuldeep Yadav as he has been selected ahead of Yuzi Chahal and Ravi Ashwin for this tournament. This decision reflects the trust and confidence that the selectors have placed in him. With turning pitches expected in India, Kuldeep will play a vital role as India’s primary spinner. His impressive performance in the previous edition of the tournament; claiming 10 wickets across six games—sets high expectations for his upcoming contributions.
10. Mohammed Shami
Mohammed Shami, an experienced Indian fast bowler, has rejoined the team for the Asia Cup 2023 after taking a break from the West Indies tour. His partnership with Jasprit Bumrah at the beginning of matches is vital for India’s success in the tournament. Shami’s wealth of experience will also prove invaluable in handling high-pressure situations. In the 2014 edition, Shami showcased his skills by taking 9 wickets in just four games with an impressive average of 25.25.
11. Jasprit Bumrah
The return of Jasprit Bumrah to the Indian team is a significant positive development. Currently leading the team on their tour of Ireland to regain match fitness, Bumrah displayed his brilliance immediately by grabbing two early wickets upon his comeback. Even though he has made some adjustments to his bowling action, Bumrah continues to deliver excellent yorkers and maintain his exceptional form. Undoubtedly, Bumrah will be spearheading India’s bowling attack in the forthcoming Asia Cup 2023 as their leader of the pack.
