'Pakistan are favourites against unsettled India' - Danish Kaneria warns ahead of Asia Cup clash

The noise and mental games surrounding the India vs Pakistan clash in the Asian Cup 2023 have already begun. The arch-rivals are set for a blockbuster contest on September 2.

Former Pakistan cricketer Danish Kaneria has weighed in on the highly anticipated match and believes Pakistan will start the favourites.

MORE: Bet on Asia Cup and other cricket matches from India here

What did Danish Kaneria say about India-Pakistan clash at the Asia Cup, 2023?

Former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria expressed his views on his Youtube Channel. The 42-year-old was bold enough to claim that his country has an upper-hand over India, going into the Asia Cup clash.

"Pakistan have the edge, as India don't look settled at the moment. They don't know which fast bowlers are going to play. In the spin department, Yuzvendra Chahal has been inconsistent", Kaneria pointed out India's concerns on his channel.

Danish also named three spinners which he would prefer to be a part of the playing XI for India. 

"Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, and Ravindra Jadeja should be the three spinners, according to me. If they want a spinner on standby, Ravi Bishnoi should get the nod", confessed Kaneria in the live. 

MORE: India's loss to West Indies will affect them in Asia Cup?

What did Kaneria say about the return of Rahul and Iyer?

Kaneria stated that Rahul and Iyer should have more games under their belt, on their return from injury. Throwing them into the mix for the Asia Cup could prove to be detrimental in their progress.

"KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer are practicing at the NCA and are most-likely going to be included in India's squad for upcoming major tournaments. However, you cannot bring someone into the team just on the basis of practice. They will have to play matches and should be added into the team only if they show good form there", Kaneria added.

MORE: KL and Shreyas involved in a practice match 

What happened the last time India played Pakistan in Asia Cup?

In Asia Cup 2022, India and Pakistan met twice, in the group stage and the Super Four stage. While India won the first match by 5 wickets, Pakistan triumphed in the Super Four tie.

Which teams are participating in Asia Cup 2023?

1. India
2. Pakistan
3. Nepal
4. Sri Lanka
5. Bangladesh
6. Afghanistan

MORE: Asia Cup 2023: Groups, teams and schedule - India grouped with Pakistan and Nepal

Asia Cup 2023 Fixtures