• Source:JND

The Pakistan cricket team has arrived in Colombo in preparation for their second-round match against India in the Asia Cup Super Four stage. Pakistan aims to maintain their unbeaten streak in the Asia Cup following their victory over Bangladesh on Wednesday.

Meanwhile, the Indian team has already begun their preparations for their crucial encounter with Pakistan in the same tournament.

KL Rahul, who missed the first match against Pakistan in the Asia Cup due to a minor injury, has joined the practice sessions. Rahul dedicated time to practice against both left-arm and right-arm pacers, keeping in mind the quality bowling attack of the Pakistani side. He spent an extended period in the nets to ensure he is fully ready for his comeback match.

Shubman Gill also participated in the practice session, focusing on facing deliveries from right-arm bowlers, particularly those that swing.

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Indian head coach Rahul Dravid, who had earlier emphasized the need for India to strengthen their batting depth, worked with Shardul Thakur in preparing him for batting in the final overs, adding depth to the team's batting order. During the practice session, Dravid was seen discussing batting techniques with Shardul.

Notably, Virat Kohli and captain Rohit Sharma opted to rest and did not participate in the optional practice session.

The group stage match between India and Pakistan had to be abandoned due to rain, with both teams receiving one point each. In that game, India faced challenges against Pakistan's pace attack, with Shaheen Afridi taking four wickets. India managed to score 266 runs in 48.5 overs, with notable contributions from Hardik Pandya (87) and Ishan Kishan (82). However, rain intervened, and the match ended without Pakistan having a chance to bat.

Pakistan's captain, Babar Azam, has affirmed that his team is fully committed to giving their best in the highly-anticipated clash against India in the Asia Cup Super Four. The upcoming match between India and Pakistan promises to be an exciting and closely-watched contest.