Indian cricket icon and commentator Aakash Chopra has unveiled his dream India-Pakistan combined XI in anticipation of their Asia Cup 2023 clash in Kandy on Saturday. Chopra’s top order features Rohit Sharma and Fakhar Zaman as his dynamic opening pair, with Rohit doubling as the team’s captain.

“I am Indian, and I will admit to a slight bias. So, as my opener and captain, I’m selecting Rohit Sharma. While Shubman Gill is an option, my heart inclines toward Zaman. Let’s aim for a total of 350 runs,” remarked Chopra.

Chopra had no reservations about slotting India’s run machine, Virat Kohli, at the pivotal No. 3 position, emphasizing his exceptional record and experience in this role.

“At No. 3, there’s no doubt in my mind. You might question it from across the border, but given the mountains of runs Virat Kohli has amassed batting at No. 3, he’s my choice every day of the week,” Chopra asserted.

Babar Azam follows Kohli at No. 4 in Chopra’s lineup, despite his usual role as a No. 3 batsman for Pakistan.

“Babar Azam is a must at No. 4. He’s that kind of player. I’ve placed him at No. 4; although he bats at No. 3 for his team, if Virat is at No. 3, Babar might willingly take the No. 4 spot,” added Chopra.

Chopra’s choice for the wicketkeeper-batsman role is Mohammad Rizwan. The selection of the all-rounder, either Hardik Pandya or Iftikhar Ahmed, depends on pitch conditions.

“As for the keeper, with KL Rahul unavailable, I’m going with Mohammad Rizwan. At No. 6, if it’s a pitch favoring pace, I’d go with Hardik Pandya. If it’s slightly spin-friendly, I’d opt for Iftikhar Ahmed,” noted Chopra.

The No. 7 position in Chopra’s XI is occupied by Ravindra Jadeja, but he also suggested sending in Shadab Khan if an off-spinner was bowling.

“At No. 7, I’ve chosen a left-hander to balance the team. So, Ravindra Jadeja is my pick. However, you can send Shadab Khan if an off-spinner is bowling, and Ravindra Jadeja if a left-arm spinner or leg-spinner is on, as both are part of my team,” explained Chopra.

For the bowling attack, Chopra elected a formidable trio of fast bowlers, featuring Shaheen Shah Afridi, Jasprit Bumrah, and Haris Rauf.

“Now, I’m selecting three fast bowlers. First up, Shaheen Shah Afridi. Then, Jasprit Bumrah. With Shaheen and Bumrah operating from opposite ends, the opposition will struggle. The final spot was contested by Mohammed Siraj, Mohammad Shami, or Haris Rauf. I’ve chosen Haris Rauf,” concluded Chopra.