The 16th edition of the Asia Cup, held at the Multan Cricket Stadium, witnesses an exciting clash between Pakistan and debutants Nepal. Unlike the T20I format of the 2022 edition, this year’s competition showcases One Day Internationals (ODIs) at the forefront.
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With six formidable teams gracing the Asia Cup 2023 stage, including India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Afghanistan, the teams are divided into two groups. Group A comprises India, Pakistan, and Nepal, while Group B consists of Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Afghanistan.
In the realm of ODIs, the significance of the opening partnerships cannot be underestimated, considering the format’s batter-friendly nature. The onus lies heavily on the openers to set the tone for the innings.
1. Fakhar Zaman and Imam-ul-Haq – Pakistan
Among the opening pairs in Asia Cup 2023, Pakistan’s duo of Fakhar Zaman and Imam-ul-Haq take the lead. While they may not reach the heights of legends like Saeed Anwar and Aamer Sohail, their performance at the top order remains commendable. Having shared the opening stand 57 times, they’ve notched up 2430 runs together at an average of 44.18, including seven-century partnerships and 11 fifty stands. Their monumental partnership of 304 in 2018 remains etched in memory. Individually, Fakhar boasts an average of 46.68 from 74 ODIs, and Imam holds a robust average of 51.50 from 62 games.
2. Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill – India
India’s pair of Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill secures the second spot. Although relatively fresh in their partnership, their potential shines bright. In just eight ODIs together, they’ve amassed 683 runs at an impressive average of 85.37, including two-century partnerships and four fifty stands. Their highest partnership of 212, achieved against New Zealand in January, showcased their prowess.
3. Pathum Nissanka and Dimuth Karunaratne – Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka’s opening pair of Pathum Nissanka and Dimuth Karunaratne, akin to Rohit and Gill, presents a fresh alliance at the top. Their strong start in ODIs reflects their promise, with 10 innings yielding 742 runs at an average of 82.44. This includes three hundred partnerships and three fifty stands. Their remarkable 190-run partnership against West Indies stands as a testament to their partnership’s potential.
4. Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran – Afghanistan
At the fourth spot, Afghanistan’s Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran form a complementary duo. Their contrasting styles contribute to their success. Gurbaz’s aggression pairs well with Zadran’s anchor role. In 15 ODI innings, they’ve accumulated 760 runs at an average of 50.66, accompanied by two-century partnerships and two fifty stands. Their remarkable 256-run partnership against Bangladesh and 227-run partnership against Pakistan signify their compatibility.
5. Kushal Bhurtel and Aasif Sheikh – Nepal
Nepal’s most successful opening pair, Kushal Bhurtel and Aasif Sheikh, has made an impact. In 33 innings, they’ve secured 942 runs at an average of 28.54, with three hundred partnerships and four fifty stands. Their highest partnership of 171, achieved against Zimbabwe in the ICC Cricket World Cup Qualifier, highlights their potential.
With Bangladesh grappling with the absence of key players, their opening pair remains uncertain. Mohammad Naim and Najmul Hossain Shanto, along with Anamul Haque as a replacement, could shape their approach in the Asia Cup.
As the Asia Cup 2023 unfolds, the dynamics of these opening pairs promise to be a crucial factor in determining the course of the tournament.
