India and Nepal are facing a crucial match in the Asia Cup 2023, where the skipper Rohit Sharma will be aiming to seal the Super 4 spot. India and Pakistan game had no result due to rain as the top order led by Rohit Sharma. Nepal suffered a big loss to Pakistan. Both teams are determined to secure a victory.
India aims to bounce back after their initial setback and is relying on players like Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Ishan Kishan, and Shreyas Iyer to build a solid batting lineup. They also expect contributions from Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, and Shardul Thakur.
VENUE FOR INDIA v NEPAL MATCH
Pallekele International Cricket Stadium has big boundaries, but the outfield is lightning-quick. It has been a great venue for batsmen, and we have seen lots of runs being made here. There isn’t much on this surface for the fast bowlers, but spinners have done well as the ball turns sharply on this track.
We will see overcast skies over Pallekele; rain may disrupt the game. Rain might play spoilsport for this bog match. The weather will be cloudy and humid, with a couple of heavy showers.
Average 1st Innings Score: 250
Average 2nd Innings Score: 202
TEAM PREVIEW
INDIA
Rohit Sharma is unlikely to be disheartened by the outcome of the match against Pakistan in their last match, which served as a wake-up call for their renowned batting lineup. Although Nepal presents a less formidable challenge, Indian team can’t afford to be complacent and must perform well to advance to the Super Fours.
For India, Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill need to excel at the top and establish a substantial opening partnership. The team relies on a strong performance from Virat Kohli at No. 3, with Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer expected to build partnerships. Hardik Pandya’s solid performance needs to continue, and he will collaborate with Ravindra Jadeja and Shardul Thakur for runs. Rohit Sharma would be keen to get some big runs under his belt
In the bowling department, Jasprit Bumrah has returned to India due to personal reasons and will join the Indian Team just before the Super 4 Stage. Mohammed Shami is likely to replace him for today’s match. Ravindra Jadeja and Kuldeep Yadav are poised to excel in these conditions and pose difficulties for the batsmen. Pandya and Thakur are also expected to contribute effectively in their support roles.
EXPECTED XI OF INDIA v NEPAL
Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Ishan Kishan (wk), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj
NEPAL
On the other hand, Rohit Paudel’s team suffered a significant loss against Pakistan, and they face a daunting challenge. Paudel aims to lead from the front to secure victory.
Kushal Bhurtel and Aasif Sheikh, who missed out in the previous game, need to perform well at the top. Paudel should anchor the innings in the middle order and collaborate with Aarif Sheikh and Sompal Kami. Gulsan Jha, Dipendra Singh Airee, and Kushal Malla are capable hitters tasked with adding quick runs lower down the order.
The success of Nepal’s bowlers is crucial for their chances, with Karan KC and Sompal Kami needing strong starts. Sandeep Lamichhane, the team’s top bowler, aims to make an impact in the middle overs alongside Lalit Rajbanshi and Dipendra Singh Airee. Contributions from Gulsan Jha and Kushal Bhurtel in supporting roles are also expected.
EXPECTED XI OF NEPAL v INDIA
Rohit Paudel (c), Kushal Bhurtel, Aasif Sheikh (wk), Aarif Sheikh, Kushal Malla, Dipendra Singh Airee, Gulsan Jha, Sompal Kami, Karan KC, Sandeep Lamichhane, Lalit Rajbanshi
PREDICTION FOR THE MATCH
Based on the experience and skills of the two sides, Indians will start favorites in this contest.
India to win against Nepal and Advance to the Super 4 Stage.
Also Read: IND vs PAK: “Shubman Gill Will Be Keen To Perform”- Harbhajan Singh