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.
Saim Ayub and Hasan Nawaz starred with the bat as Pakistan secured a 31-run win over the UAE in the tri-series. Hasan Ali's timely wickets helped Pakistan fend off a late onslaught from Asif Khan.
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.