Former cricketer Madan Lal backed India as strong favourites to defend their Asia Cup title in Dubai, highlighting the importance of Kuldeep Yadav's inclusion and the rising challenge posed by Afghanistan.
Afghanistan secured a 38-run win over the UAE in the T20I tri-series in Sharjah. Rashid Khan set a new record as the highest wicket-taker in T20 internationals, boosting team morale after an earlier loss to Pakistan.
Pakistan began their Asia Cup preparations with a confident 39-run victory over Afghanistan in Sharjah. Salman Agha laid the platform with a 53-run knock, after which Haris Rauf picked up four wickets.
A full-strength Afghanistan team is set to compete in the 2025 Asia Cup, following the announcement of their 17-member squad by the ACB on Sunday (August 24).