Rohit Sharma-led India had a cakewalk against Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2018 game in Dubai. After having to sweat hard to earn a victory against minnows, Hong Kong, critics slammed the side for their hapless outing.
The defending champions made a strong comeback against the arch-rivals to seal a convincing victory by eight wickets and top the group stage with twin wins,
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However, former India cricketer, VVS Laxman lauded the effort of men in blue. He said a Virat Kohli-less Indian side would get tested and they have been responding well. With 35 ODI tons and close to 10,000 runs, Kohli’s impact has been undeniable. But Laxman feels the current Indian side has been impressive without their regular leader.
“After a tough Test series in England, it was imperative for India to move on as a new format beckoned. While the Asia Cup is a massively important tournament, it is but a step towards preparing for next summer’s World Cup. Without Virat, this competition will be a test of the mettle of the other players. And from what we have seen so far, they are up to the test” Laxman told TOI.
India impressive after Hong Kong scare
On the close shave against Hong Kong, Laxman observed the new-comers lacked a bit of experience in the middle-order. A 174-run opening stand between Nizakat Khan and Anshuman Rath threatened to take the game away from the Indians, but once the opening stand was broke, the Indian bowlers made in-roads easily.
“With a little more experience and poise in the middle-order, Hong Kong could have pulled off one of the greatest upsets in cricket. But once India broke through, there was no stopping them,” Laxman remarked.
He also said India managed well to get back to a strong mindset against Pakistan, the very next day.
“The areas that needed immediate addressing after the Hong Kong scare were striking with the new ball, and showing greater awareness and intent in the middle-order. Remarkably, in less than 24 hours, India was in top form in both aspects,” Laxman remarked.