Legends Unleashed: Pakistan’s All-Time Asia Cup ODI XI

The Asia Cup has been a battleground of cricketing excellence, where teams from the Asian subcontinent lock horns to claim supremacy. Pakistan is among those nations that have produced remarkable talents over the years in the event. The Men in Green have won two Asia Cup Titles so far.

The 16th edition of the Asia Cup is all set to commence on August 30, and six Asian nations will be participating in the tournament for the coveted trophy. On that note, let’s delve into the annals of cricket history and have a look at Pakistan’s Best All-Time Asia Cup ODI XI.

Pakistan’s All-Time Asia Cup ODI XI

1) Inzamam-ul-Haq (Batter)

A batting maestro with a calm demeanour, Inzamam-ul-Haq’s inclusion in the lineup is a no-brainer. Known for his majestic strokes and impeccable timing, he forms one-half of the opening partnership.

Inzamam’s stats in Asia Cup – Matches: 15 | Runs: 591 | Average: 59.10  | Centuries: 0 | Fifties: 6

2) Younis Khan (Batter)

A quintessential team player, Younis Khan’s solid technique and unwavering determination make him the perfect partner for Inzamam. His ability to anchor the innings while adapting to match situations is a testament to his greatness.

Younis’ stats in Asia Cup – Matches: 14 | Runs: 546 | Average: 49.63 | Centuries: 2 | Fifties: 3

3) Shoaib Malik (Batter)

A versatile player, Shoaib Malik’s ability to stabilize the innings and accelerate when needed earns him a pivotal spot in the middle order. His experience and tactical acumen make him a valuable asset.

Shoaib’s stats in Asia Cup – Matches: 17 | Runs: 786 | Average: 65.50  | Centuries: 3 | Fifties: 3

Also READ: Pakistan announces an 18-man squad for the Asia Cup 2023 and Afghanistan ODIs

4) Misbah-ul-Haq (Batter)

A leader par excellence, Misbah-ul-Haq’s calm and composed captaincy earns him a place as the backbone of the middle order. His match awareness and ability to steer the team through pressure situations are second to none.

Misbah’s stats in Asia Cup – Matches: 14 | Runs: 419 | Average: 46.55  | Centuries: 0 | Fifties: 5

5) Shahid Afridi (All-rounder/Captain)

The ‘Boom Boom’ Afridi brings his explosive batting and invaluable leg-spin prowess to the lineup. His ability to turn the tide of the game in an instant makes him a game-changer.

Afridi’s stats in Asia Cup – Matches: 23 | Runs: 532 | Average: 35.46  | Centuries: 2 | Fifties: 1 | Wickets: 14

6) Mohammad Hafeez (All-rounder)

An all-rounder with a knack for crucial breakthroughs and calculated batting, Mohammad Hafeez adds depth to the lineup. His off-spin and dependable batting are key assets in the team’s quest for victory.

Hafeez’s stats in Asia Cup – Matches: 9 | Runs: 493 | Average:  44.77 | Centuries: 1 | Fifties: 3 | Wickets: 8

7) Umar Akmal (Wicketkeeper/Batter)

A youthful spark in the lineup, Umar Akmal’s aggressive batting style and ability to clear the ropes make him a vital asset in the lower middle order.

Akmal’s stats in Asia Cup – Matches: 11 | Runs: 510 | Average: 51.00  | Centuries: 1 | Fifties: 4

8) Abdul Razzaq (All-rounder)

A true all-rounder, Razzaq’s ability to contribute with both bat and ball adds unparalleled balance to the team. His power-hitting and wicket-taking knack make him a vital match-winner

Razzaq’s stats in Asia Cup: Matches: 11 | Wickets: 16 | Economy: 4.28 | BBI: 4/29

9) Saeed Ajmal (Bowler)

A magician with the ball, Saeed Ajmal’s mesmerizing spin and wicket-taking ability are integral to Pakistan’s success. His variations and control make him a true match-winner.

Saeed’s stats in Asia Cup: Matches: 12 | Wickets: 25 | Economy: 4.21 | BBI: 3/26

10) Wasim Akram (Bowler)

A living legend, Wasim Akram’s lethal swing bowling and deadly yorkers make him the pace spearhead of this formidable lineup. His ability to strike fear into the hearts of batters is unparalleled.

Akram’s stats in Asia Cup: Matches: 12 | Wickets: 16 | Economy: 3.22 | BBI: 4/19

11) Umar Gul (Bowler)

Renowned for his deadly reverse swing and accurate yorkers, Umar Gul’s ability to dismantle batting lineups at crucial junctures secures his spot in the XI.

Gul’s stats in Asia Cup: Matches: 11 | Wickets: 14 | Economy: 5.80 | BBI: 3/58

Also READ: Dominating the Decades: India’s All-Time Asia Cup ODI XI