What will be the Asian XI look like if the Afro-Asia Cup goes ahead?

New Delhi: With the possibility of the revival of the Afro-Asia Cup the dream of many fans is turning out to be true. Indian superstar Virat Kohli and Pakistan’s white ball specialist Babar Azam are anticipated to be battling it together after being pitted against each other for a long time.

On the other hand, when it comes to bowling everyone is excited to watch the synchrony of Shaheen Afridi and Jasprit Bumrah in the same. The tournament was originally started in 2005 and was continued only for 2 more seasons. It was abruptly stopped following the 2008 Taj Attacks which broke down all diplomatic channels between India and Pakistan and the two countries became bitter enemies.

An attempt was made in 2022 to revive the competition. However, that attempt did not see the light. Now, as Jay Shah ascended to the throne of ICC, chances are there that things progress positively in the direction of the Afro-Asia Cup.

If things go well, the Asia XI is set to feature a strong lineup comprising match winners and modern-day greats of the white ball. To start with, Rohit Sharma is anticipated to be drafted in naturally in his role of opener. He will be joined by Shubman Gill, Rishab Pant and Kohli.

In the bowling department, the Asia XI boasts of a powerful spin attack in the form of Wanidu Hasaranga and Rashid Khan besides the pace duo of Shaheen and Bumrah.

Asia XI for Afro-Asia CUP

Rohit Sharma (C), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Babar Azam, Rishabh Pant, Wanindu Hasaranga, Mohammad Rizwan, Shaheen Afridi, Jasprit Bumrah, Rashid Khan, Haris Rauf

When can fans expect the Afro-Asia Cup?

Currently, there is no window of opportunity for the game organisers in 2024. Naturally, if and when the organisers decide to go ahead with the tournament, the only logical time will be in 2025.