Kohli's absence means Pakistan favorites against India, says Gavaskar

Pakistan thrashed Hong Kong by eight wickets in their previous match, as India scraped past to avoid a shock defeat against the minnows.

Further, Pakistan had defeated India by a mammoth 180 runs, the last time these two sides met in the final of the ICC Champions Trophy in 2017.

Gavaskar cited that Pakistan will go into the game with a big psychological advantage.

Speaking to Hindi TV channel Aaj Tak, Gavaskar pointed out that, "The previous game or the ball before... always stays at the back of your mind and that creates a touch of uncertainty in your mind."

He said "And Virat's absence is going to be crucial as well."

Kohli has been rested for the Asia Cup 2018 after a long tour of England.

Former India cricketer and television commentator Sanjay Manjrekar echoed the same thoughts and said, "Pakistan start as favourites because they have been playing in those conditions".

The duo are somewhat right in their assessment.

Pakistan have a strong record in the UAE and have played top class cricket here.

Also Kohli's absence takes the shine away from the Indian team.

India and Pakistan have met each other 12 times in the Asia Cup and the former hold a 6-5 advantage.

Pakistani bowlers will come hard at the Indian line-up, whose middle order look a bit depleted presently.

A lot will depend on India's spinners and the opening batsmen need to lay a strong foundation.

Pakistan will feel they have a real chance of winning.