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As the much-awaited Asia Cup 2025 Super Four clash between India and Pakistan draws closer, former India cricketer Murali Kartik has identified the key players who could make the difference for the Men in Blue. Speaking on Cricbuzz, Kartik highlighted two players as X-factors for India. He also underlined the importance of ace pacer Jasprit Bumrah, calling him a player Pakistan would need to watch out for.
Murali Kartik names two X-factors of Team India for the clash against Pakistan
Kartik was full of praise for Indian skipper Suryakumar Yadav, describing him as an X-factor who can change the complexion of the game single-handedly. Known for his innovative stroke play and fearless batting, Suryakumar has been at the forefront of India’s aggressive approach in limited-overs cricket.
Kartik further named Hardik Pandya as second X-factor mentioning about his all-round abilities and impact he brings with his bowling as Hardik is considered to be the second seamer.
“The skipper is an x-factor and Hardik Pandya, with the balance he brings to the side. He also lends a lot of weight with his bowling up top because he is one of those two seamers. And of course, I can’t look past Jasprit Bumrah,” said Karik on Cricbuzz.
Also READ: Reason why Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav did not come to bat against Oman in Asia Cup 2025
India in good shape heading into Super 4s
The former left-arm spinner expressed confidence in Team India’s overall form heading into the business end of the tournament. He believes the side has no major concerns across departments, citing strong performances against stronger oppositions in the group stage.
“They are pretty fine, going by what they did against the more fancied sides. They were spot on in their team selections. Yes, Arshdeep didn’t get a game but the way the spinners and Jasprit Bumrah bowled and the way the batters came out blazing, everything looked in fine touch,” explained Kartik.
Kartik, however, noted that India looked slightly subdued in their clash against Oman, suggesting that the team might not have been fully switched on.
“Maybe against Oman, they were just a notch below, flying under the radar because they didn’t think Oman would push them. But once the bell rings against the better sides, India will be back to its firing ways,” he concluded.
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