Asia Cup 2023: Pakistan, Nepal to lock horns in opening match tomorrow

Lahore: The eagerly awaited Men's ODI Asia Cup 2023 is set to commence, with Pakistan, the top-ranked One-Day International (ODI) team, squaring off against Nepal in a Group-A clash at the Multan Cricket Stadium tomorrow.

This event is significant for several reasons, as both Nepal and Multan make their inaugural appearances in the continental tournament. Additionally, it marks the first encounter between Pakistan and Nepal at the highest level of the sport.

Anticipation is running high as the scenic Multan Cricket Stadium prepares to host the Wednesday clash. The cricket-loving Multan fans are expected to create an electrifying atmosphere, providing immense support to both teams. Prior to the 1430 PKT time match, spectators will be treated to a captivating opening ceremony.

Notably, Pakistan's last Men's ODI match in Multan was in June of the preceding year, where the home team secured a comprehensive victory over the West Indies, sweeping them 3-0 in a three-match series. Pakistan has participated in 10 ODIs at this venue, clinching victory in seven.

Babar Azam, the captain of the Pakistani side, conveyed his excitement on the eve of the match, stating, "It is always a great feeling to play in front of the passionate Multan crowd, and we are all very excited that the Asia Cup is beginning from this city. I want to congratulate Nepal for qualifying for the Asia Cup, and I hope their participation will contribute to the growth of the sport in their country. We are looking forward to facing Nepal, and I am confident it will be a competitive contest."

Pakistan's entry into the Asia Cup is marked by a surge in momentum. After a triumphant 3-0 whitewash over Afghanistan in Sri Lanka, the team claimed the top position in the ICC ODI rankings last Saturday. This is the second occasion that Pakistan has reached the summit since April. Notably, Pakistan boasts an exceptional win/loss ratio of 2.750, with 22 victories in 31 matches during this World Cup cycle.

The team has achieved success across formats, both domestically and internationally, in recent times. From leveling the T20 International series 2-2 and securing a 4-1 triumph in the five-match ODI series against New Zealand, to sweeping Sri Lanka in the two-Test series held in July and triumphing over Afghanistan 3-0 in ODIs in Sri Lanka this month, Pakistan's performance has been notable.

Reflecting on the pressure associated with being the top-ranked team, Babar Azam clarified, "I wouldn't call it pressure; rather, we approach this tournament with enhanced confidence. The team has dedicated significant effort and hard work over the past few years, and our ascent to the top spot is a testament to that. Our mission, however, is far from complete. We aim to win the Asia Cup and the World Cup. The upcoming months hold exciting and competitive challenges, and we are eager to make our nation proud."

Azam further added, "Each player on this team is determined to contribute to their country's victories. They willingly embrace hard work and are resilient even in challenging situations. Our recent accomplishments are impressive, and now it's time to capitalize on this momentum."

On August 31, Pakistan is scheduled to travel to Sri Lanka for their second Group-A match against India on September 2 in Kandy. The same venue will host the final group match between India and Nepal on September 4.

Pakistan Squad: Babar Azam (Captain), Shadab Khan (Vice-Captain), Abdullah Shafique, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Iftikhar Ahmed, Imam-ul-Haq, Mohammad Haris (wk), Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Naseem Shah, Salman Ali Agha, Saud Shakeel, Shaheen Afridi, Usama Mir. Traveling Reserve: Tayyab Tahir.