India and Pakistan are set to renew their cricketing rivalry at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, Sri Lanka. This is the second time these teams have crossed paths in the Asia Cup 2023, having met during the league stage earlier in the tournament. However, their previous encounter was marred by rain, leading to a draw.
Pakistan won the toss
Pakistan skipper Babar Azam won the toss and elected to bowl first, a decision influenced by the overcast conditions prevailing in Colombo. Bowling first under such conditions could provide an advantage to the team, as the pitch may offer assistance to the bowlers. However, the toss is just the initial chapter in what promises to be a gripping encounter.
“We will bowl first. I think there is a bit of moisture, we need to use that. Always, India Pakistan is high intensity, but we will take it match to match. As a team, we are playing well, we are focused on this one. No changes.”, Babar said, after winning the toss.
Here’s why Shreyas Iyer is not playing against Pakistan today!
The major talking point before the match was the unexpected exclusion of star middle-order batter Shreyas Iyer from the Indian team. It was revealed that Iyer had been dropped due to back spasms, casting doubt on his fitness. This development is of concern given that Iyer had already spent approximately six months out of action due to a back injury, which required surgery.
Indian skipper Rohit Sharma announced the lineup and explained the decision to omit Iyer, expressing hope that the injury was not too severe. The team management is expected to provide further updates on Iyer’s condition. His absence from the crucial encounter against Pakistan leaves a void in the middle order, which the team will need to address.
“Two changes – Bumrah is back and one forced change, Shreyas Iyer just got a back spasm so KL Rahul comes in for him.”, Rohit Sharma said while announcing the team.
Second forced change for India
In another significant change, India welcomed back fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah into the squad. Bumrah had to return to India after the league-stage match against Pakistan due to the birth of his first child. However, he rejoined the team ahead of the Super 4 stage and was available for selection in the India-Pakistan encounter. Bumrah’s return adds firepower to India’s bowling attack, and his presence is expected to bolster the team’s chances in this high-stakes match.
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