Emerging Asia Cup: India A start as firm favourites against Pakistan A in final | Cricket News – Times of India

Matches between India and Pakistan have historically been hard to predict, with both teams displaying great skill and talent. However, in this particular scenario, India A emerges as the clear favorite, carrying momentum from their previous encounters.
Adding to their confidence, India A can draw upon the positive experience of having already secured a victory against Pakistan A in the league stage. .

This crop of young Indian players carries a lot of flair in their approach, but beneath the flashiness bubbles a layer of stone-cold determination to win from any situation.
The semifinal against Bangladesh was a microcosm of that trait. India were bundled out for 211, a below-par total even on a sluggish R Premadasa Stadium pitch.
The Bangladesh openers, who were in good touch in this tournament, started briskly scoring over 6 runs an over. They raced to 94 for 1 in the 18th over, and looked poised for a smooth win.
But the Indian spinners — Nishant Sindhu and Manav Suthar — owned the stage from thereafter, rolling over Bangladesh for 160. The captaincy of Yash Dhull, who also made a crucial 66, and the fielding too were spot on as India snatched a win that looked improbable at one stage.
This cohesion within the team will be India’s primary weapon going into the final against Pakistan.
Having said that, underestimating Pakistan will be naïve. They are a talented side, and many of their players have considerable international and Pakistan Super League (PSL) experience behind them.
All-rounder Mohammad Wasim, captain Mohammad Harris, opener Sahibzada Farhan and pacer Arshad Iqbal all have tasted international cricket. While players such as Amad Butt and Omair Yousuf have been proven performers in the PSL.
Hence, Pakistan would like to treat the setback in the league phase as a mere aberration and would be eager for an act of atonement.
But, India will believe that they have all the cards to nullify Pakistan’s charge.

(With inputs from PTI)