Former Team India opener Virender Sehwag has shown faith in Team India to retain the Asia Cup title in the upcoming continental event, set to be held in the T20 format from September 9 to 28 in the United
Arab Emirates (UAE). India, under Suryakumar Yadav leadership, will enter the tournament as reigning champions. The Men In Blue will kick off their campaign against UAE on September 10 and will square off against arch-rivals Pakistan on September 14 and Oman on September 19.
India are the most successful team in theAsia Cupwith eight titles. Noting this record, Sehwag has backed the Suryakumar-led side to retain the title. "Asia Cup has always brought out the best in Indian cricket. The team today has the skill, balance, and mindset to handle any challenge. Playing in Dubai will be high-pressure, but that’s exactly the kind of stage where our players shine. I am confident India will once again make the nation proud by lifting the trophy," said Sehwag in a media release issued by broadcasters Sony Sports Network.
India’s performance in the Asia Cup editions played in the T20I format
There have been two installments of the Asia Cup played in the T20 format (2016 and 2022). In 2016, India hammered Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka to lift the trophy under MS Dhoni’s captaincy. The Dhoni-led team thrashed hosts Bangladesh by eight wickets in the rain-reduced final.
In 2022, the Asia Cup was held in the T20 format again and this time, India’s campaign concluded in the Super 4 round under Rohit Sharma’s leadership after losing to Pakistan and Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka, under Dasun Shanka’s captaincy, clinched their sixth title following their 23-win over Pakistan in the final, held at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
