Team India probable 18-member squad and  predicted XI for Asia Cup

Wicketkeeper and All-rounder: MS Dhoni and Hardik Pandya

MS Dhoni will don a crucial role in upcoming Asia Cup

It would be impossible to even zero down on a playing XI without MS Dhoni's presence. While his recent performances have made him a subject of mass criticism, one simply can't shy away from the fact that he's irreplaceable when it comes to white-ball cricket.

The knowledge and experience that Dhoni brings into the table will surely help the Indian team in getting an edge over their opponents. His ability to change gears in nerve-wracking situations and prance hard onto the opposition is something you will never get to witness among the batsmen of the current generation.

Hardik Pandya's abilities as an all-rounder will come handy on many occasions

It's time for the 24-year-old to gain back the public trust as an all-rounder in the gentleman's game. Hardik's performances with the bat might not have been highly effective till date, as he has amassed mere 670 runs in 27 innings with 4 fifties to his name. However, he would surely remain a vital cog for team India if they are to win the 2018 Asia Cup.