Virat Kohli scored 183 against Pakistan during 2012 Asia Cup. (Source: Reuters file) For the first time ever, Asia Cup will be played in the T20 format. India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh will look to become champions, the two qualifiers will try to gain some experience. In the previous editions, the tournament has produced new stars. Here are some of the memorable performances from the previous Asia Cups
Ajantha Mendis vs India (2008)
Ajantha Mendis was called the 'mystery spinner' during the tournament. Teams had struggled to pick the off-spinner and Sri Lanka were reaping rewards. But he had saved his best for the last. In the final, Sri Lanka posted a decent 273 on the board. India were favourites to win as they had a starry batting line-up. But the tables soon turned when Mendis was given the ball. He initiated a collapse and ended up picking six wickets for 13 runs. Sri Lanka won final by 100 runs.
Virat Kohli[2] vs Pakistan (2012)
Though Virat Kohli had become a household name by then, his image of a run-chaser was waiting to get the recognition. India were playing Pakistan. After posting a mammoth 329, Pakistan had sent Gautam Gambhir back to the pavillion on the second ball of the run-chase. Then came Kohli number three. First with Sachin Tendulkar and then with Rohit Sharma, Kohli build the chase at his own pace, controlled. He didn't let go a single bad delivery in vain and produced a match-winning knock of 183 runs. This is still highest individual score in Asia Cup.
Irfan Pathan vs Pakistan (2004)
Way back in 2004, Irfan Pathan was still a new name in international cricket but was considered to be one of the best swing bowlers of that time. And he did show it in the 2004 Asia Cup against Pakistan. While all other bowlers were hit for runs as Pakistan went onto score 300 runs, it was Pathan who displayed a different class. He gave away runs with an economy of 5.20 and also bagged 3 wickets but in a losing cause.
Shoaib Malik vs India (2004)
A India vs Pakistan encounter is always something to watch out for. In 2004 edition, Malik produced one of the most entertaining innings against India. He scored a blistering 143 runs to set India a target of 300 runs. The ton didn't go in vain as Pakistan beat India by 59 runs.
Saeed Ajmal vs India (2008)
Regarded as one of the best off-spinners in the world, Saeed Ajmal made his first ever appearance in coloured clothing in this match. He was up against the strong batting line up but didn't disappoint anyone as he was really good when it came down to putting a halt at runs. He bowled at an economy of 4.70 which and his spell included a dismissal of Rohit Sharma as well. Pakistan won the match by 8 wickets.
References
- ^ Express Web Desk (indianexpress.com)
- ^ Virat Kohli (indianexpress.com)
