In the inaugural match of the Asia Cup 2023, Pakistan has chosen to set the pace, winning the toss and opting to bat first against Nepal in the sun-soaked Multan Cricket Stadium. The decision was influenced by the dry, gleaming wicket which promises a good start for the batsmen, reported 24NewsHD TV channel.

https://twitter.com/TheRealPCB/status/1696811719337890290

Pakistan captain, Babar Azam, appeared confident during the pre-match proceedings. "Given the conditions and the sheen of the wicket, we've decided to put runs on the board first. We're feeling bullish about our team, hence the early declaration of our playing XI. There's no undue pressure; our intent is to revel in the game and put forth our best version," Babar commented.

In contrast, for Nepal, this match holds an emblematic significance. It marks their maiden foray into the Asia Cup tournament. Their captain, Rohit Paudel, echoed the excitement of both the players and their supporters. "This is a momentous occasion for Nepal cricket. The atmosphere and conditions here aren't alien to us; we believe it's a robust wicket to start our batting on."

https://twitter.com/TheRealPCB/status/1696812528578502743

While Pakistan is largely viewed as the dominant side, cricket pundits opine that the steadily improving Nepalese team might spring a surprise. The clear skies of Multan suggest a hot and arid day of cricket, setting the stage for what promises to be a riveting contest between a seasoned team and a rising cricketing nation.

As the Asia Cup sets into motion, the cricketing world will watch with bated breath, hoping for thrilling encounters and memorable moments.

TEAMS

Pakistan XI: 1 Fakhar Zaman, 2 Imam-ul-Haq, 3 Babar Azam (capt), 4 Mohammad Rizwan (wk), 5 Agha Salman, 6 Iftikhar Ahmed, 7 Shadab Khan, 8 Mohammad Nawaz, 9 Shaheen Shah Afridi, 10 Naseem Shah, 11 Haris Rauf

Nepal XI: 1 Kushal Bhurtel, 2 Aasif Sheikh (wk), 3 Rohit Paudel (capt), 4 Aarif Sheikh, 5 Kushal Malla, 6 Dipendra Singh Airee, 7 Gulsan Jha, 8 Sompal Kami, 9 Karan KC, 10 Sandeep Lamichhane, 11 Lalit Rajbanshi