#AsiaCup2018: All you need to know about India vs Afghanistan
What's the story
India will be eager to flex their bench strength when they take on Afghanistan in a dead-rubber Super Four battle in the ongoing Asia Cup 2018. India have already booked a place in the final of the 6-team tournament. Afghanistan, on the other hand, have been knocked out and a win today would only give them bragging rights. Here's all you need to know.
Players
Players in fray for the game against Afghanistan
In-form southpaw Shikhar Dhawan is likely to be rested for the final. In his place we could see KL Rahul make an entry into the side. Manish Pandey could be drafted in and Ambati Rayudu may be given a rest as well. Changes could come in bowling line-up as well. Khaleel Ahmed is likely to get a game alongside Deepak Chahar or Siddarth Kaul.
Batting
India could bat first in order to keep preparations going
India have won all the matches so far in the Asia Cup 2018 including two victories against Pakistan. Out of the four matches till now, India have chased in three matches. They have looked a strong batting unit. Therefore we might see them batting first this time if Rohit wins the toss. This will help them prepare for the finale.
Afghans
Afghans will be threatening India
Afghans have nothing to lose and this might propel them to give it all. They have been a solid unit through out the tourney. Notably, they lost both the Super Four battles by a thin margin against Pakistan and Bangladesh. Their spin trio led by Rashid Khan will challenge Indian batsmen. India will be up against quality bowling, this time around.
Players
Key players to watch out for
For India, skipper Rohit Sharma has been in great touch with the bat and has managed 269 runs. His last two innings have seen him remaining unbeaten. He is, once again, the ace in getting India off to a solid start. For Afghanistan, young spinner Rashid holds the fort. He has been terrific with the ball and has picked wickets.
Info
Conditions, TV listing and timing
The match will be played at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. The conditions are going to remain the same to what we have noticed so far. Spinners will be the key for the match and both sides have resources. The match is scheduled for a 5:00 PM IST start. One can watch the match on the Star Sports network or stream it on Hotstar.