Captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni thinks that the current series between the Asian nations offers a golden opportunity to rectify their past mistakes. India happens to be the only country with 5 Asia Cup titles, the most that any side has won since the tournament’s inaugural run in 1984.
“Over the years the format has changed in the sense now there are four good sides. It is a very short series, and it is very important to start with a positive note because it's not very often that you play in a tournament where all the Asian countries are playing together,” commented Dhoni on the significance of the Asia Cup.
The Indian squad for the four-nation tournament is missing the likes of Virender Sehwag and Zaheer Khan, who have been rested. However, Sachin Tendulkar’s presence means that the Little Master has another chance to score his much wanted 100th century.
Despite below average past performance, the young skipper is upbeat about his side’s chances to lift the coveted cup once again. “It's not that we have done really badly. Of course, we had a patch where we have not done consistently well. Especially when it comes to the ODI format, I think we have done quite well. So we are hoping that we will stick to it and be consistent throughout the tournament," remarked Dhoni.
The Indian cricket team would face their first challenge against the inform Sri Lankans who have been termed favourites by the former Pakistani coach and fast bowler, Waqar Younis. However, another former Pakistani great, Wasim Akram, has backed the Indians for the Asia Cup.
With Pakistan winning their first match against Bangladesh, the contest between India and Sri Lanka is bound to further increase the hype and public interest in the tournament.
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