India’s stand-in skipper Rohit Sharman has said it is always exciting to play against Pakistan, they have been great lately and have played very good cricket.

Addressing to media alongside the captains from other participating nations - Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan and Hong Kong - ahead of the Asia Cup 2018 in the United Arab Emirates, Sharma said it has been 12 years since India last played in the UAE and his unit is very excited to be back and is ready for the challenges ahead.

“We are very happy to be back here, said the Indian opener adding, Off late we have played some great cricket and I hope this turns out to be a great learning opportunity ahead of the World Cup.”

India will square off against arch-rivals Pakistan after a gap of 15 months on September 19.

Rohit said that his team is very excited about facing their neighbour (Pakistan) after the ICC Champions Trophy final in June 2017.

“I am sure everyone is looking forward to it, but we will just focus on the match at hand,” he said.

“It is always exciting to play Pakistan, they have been great lately and have played very good cricket,” he added.

When asked what makes the defending champions the favourites to win the tournament, Rohit replied every team will have to up their game as it is not going to be easy for anyone as all the teams will try to put their best foot forward.

Commenting on his captaincy he said, “First time I am captaining a full tour and I am very excited.”

Meanwhile, Pakistan captain Sarfraz Ahmed said that it a great opportunity for all the participating teams and everyone will try to give their best to entertain the fans.

The 2018 edition of Asia Cup will get underway with a clash between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh on Saturday.

India, who are placed in Group A, will play their first game against Hong Kong on September 18 before facing Pakistan the following day.