*DUBAI – India’s stand-in skipper Rohit Sharman has said it is alwaysexciting to play against Pakistan, they have been great lately and haveplayed very good cricket.*
Addressing to media alongside the captains from other participating nations– Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan and Hong Kong – ahead of theAsia Cup 2018 in the United Arab Emirates, Sharma said it has been 12 yearssince India last played in the UAE and his unit is very excited to be backand is ready for the challenges ahead.
“We are very happy to be back here, said the Indian opener adding, Off latewe have played some great cricket and I hope this turns out to be a greatlearning opportunity ahead of the World Cup.”
India will square off against arch-rivals Pakistan after a gap of 15 monthson September 19.
Rohit said that his team is very excited about facing their neighbour(Pakistan) after the ICC Champions Trophy final in June 2017.
“I am sure everyone is looking forward to it, but we will just focus on thematch at hand,” he said.
“It is always exciting to play Pakistan, they have been great lately andhave played very good cricket,” he added.
When asked what makes the defending champions the favourites to win thetournament, Rohit replied every team will have to up their game as it isnot going to be easy for anyone as all the teams will try to put their bestfoot forward.
Commenting on his captaincy he said, “First time I am captaining a fulltour and I am very excited.”
Meanwhile, Pakistan captain Sarfraz Ahmed said that it a great opportunityfor all the participating teams and everyone will try to give their best toentertain the fans.
The 2018 edition of Asia Cup will get underway with a clash between SriLanka and Bangladesh on Saturday.