Asia Cup 2018: Combined XI

#2 Middle Order: KL Rahul, Shoaib Malik, MS Dhoni (wk)

Dhoni is one of the best readers of the game

The middle order consists of the ever reliable figures of Malik and Dhoni, who would slot into the No.5 and No.6 positions, respectively. The pair are adept at reading the situation and have the unique ability to mould their game based on the team’s requirement. Additionally, the duo excels at finishing games and would be a valuable asset for any team’s middle order.

At No.4, I have gone for the talented KL Rahul. Rahul has transformed into a limited-overs dasher in recent years and was on fire in white-ball cricket, before his troubles against the red Dukes ball. Blessed with the ability to play all the shots in the book, Rahul can manufacture boundaries at will. Rahul would be the perfect No.4 as he is equally adept at tackling spin and seam.

The triumvirate of Dhoni, Malik and Rahul would be the perfect foil to the explosive top order and would accord the balance the side needs. The ability to adapt and their experience gets them the nod over others.