Asia Cup 2018: Sanjay Manjrekar wants two changes in India's playing XI against Afghanistan

Team India are on a high after registering back to back wins in the ongoing Asia Cup being held in the United Arab Emirates. While they have already become the first finalists of the tournament, they still have a game in the super four stage left, which they will play against Afghanistan on September 25.

Former India international cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has shared his opinions on India’s playing XI ahead of the game against Afghanistan. He reckons that the in-form Shikhar Dhawan should be rested in the game against Afghanistan so that KL Rahul gets a chance.

“Rest Shikhar Dhawan and play KL Rahul instead because you want to know what Rahul is all about. You have got to keep him involved. As I said before, he is a class player and just needs to be kept constantly involved in the team. India should try their bench strength. If Rahul gets a 100 against Afghanistan, he will feel confident the next time he gets an opportunity against a stronger team. There is no point in anyone (Dhawan in this case) carrying the form because he’s already doing exceptionally well,” Manjrekar said to ESPN Cricinfo.

Khaleel Ahmed for Jasprit Bumrah 

He also added that Jasprit Bumrah can be rested and Khaleel Ahmed, who picked up three wickets on his debut against Hong Kong, should be given another go, “And I think Jasprit Bumrah can also be rested for maybe Khaleel Ahmed. He needs to be rested and played judiciously.”

Both Dhawan and Bumrah will be very crucial for India in the finals. Bangladesh and Pakistan will face off each other in a virtual semi-final, the result of which will determine who will play India in the finals. As for Afghanistan, they suffered two back to back losses, against Bangladesh and Pakistan respectively, and hence have been knocked out of the tournament. The game against India will be played only to salvage pride.

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