Sarfraz believes Kohli’s absence will make a difference

Pakistan captain Sarfraz Ahmed firmly believes that India could feel the absence of Virat Kohli in tomorrow’s blockbuster game.

Arch-rivals are set to face each other in the nail biting contest of Group A at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Wednesday.

While Sarfraz can rely on a full-strength side, India will have to make do without their superstar batsman and regular captain Kohli, who was rested for the tournament. "A part from Kohli, the Indian team has other good players too," Sarfraz said. "[But], Kohli is a big player, and [his absence] could make a difference for India."

However, the captain expects the Rohit Sharm-led India must have made their adjustments to counter for Kohli's absence. "The Indian team must have done their home work," Sarfraz said. "Good teams always take the field prepared."

The margin of error in brief tournaments such as Asia Cup are limited. Keeping that in mind, Sarfraz has told his team to "play every match as it's against India".

He expressed satisfaction at his team's form heading into the big game and made a special mention of opener Fakhar Zaman, who had hammered a blistering ton when the sides had last met, in the final of the 2017 Champions Trophy.