Abu Dhabi: Indian skipper Rohit Sharma said their opening match against Hong Kong in the Asia Cup would be a perfect chance for the team to assess the conditions, including wickets and ground dimensions, before taking on arch-rival Pakistan in their second clash of the tournament.
Shedding light on the team combinations, the 31-year-old said that a lot of positions are up for grab and they need to work out the best possible squad mix.
“We’ve not played here. The last time a lot of the boys played here was during the IPL [Indian Premier League] in 2014. It’s been a long time since we played at this (Dubai International Cricket Stadium) particular venue. Tomorrow is a good chance to assess the pitch, the grounds, the dimensions – it’s important you understand all of that and take it into your game,” Sharma said during a press conference.
“There are a lot of spots up for grab including number 3, 4, and 6. All these guys are eyeing for that. But we need to see what could be the best possible combination for the tournament,” he added.
Reflecting on the young fast bowler Khaleel Ahmed, who might get a chance to make his ODI debut against Hong Kong, Sharma stated that the team is looking forward to him doing well for the country.
“He’s (Ahmed) a great variation to the squad, but he also generates quite a bit of pace. He’s young, quite talented and can swing the ball as well at the same time. I’m looking forward to him playing and doing well for the country,” Sharma said.
“From whatever I’ve seen of him, he can get batsmen into trouble – I can surely say that. He’s got a great skill set. It’s a matter of going out there and doing it. He’s not played any games, but again, he’s got all the tools required to play at the highest level,” he added.
India are slated to open their Asia Cup campaign against Hong Kong on September 18.
[source_without_link]ANI[/source_without_link]