The Asia Cup 2022 match between India and Pakistan will take place in Dubai on August 28, Sunday, and former India captain Sourav Ganguly is convinced that senior Indian players Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, and Virat Kohli will be able to handle the strain of competing against the bitter rivals. The BCCI President further claimed that the game is "simply another match" and that only the spectators are excited about it, not the players. Shaheen Shah Afridi, a prominent Pakistani pace bowler who has been ruled out of the Asia Cup owing to a right knee ligament injury, was also mentioned by the speaker. He said that one player cannot make a difference on their own and he emphasised that India will also play without their best bowler Jasprit Bumrah.

“India vs Pakistan match is just another match,” Ganguly told India Today. “Those who play regularly or when I used to play, I didn’t take Pakistan as any special match. In knockout matches, there is extra pressure. But nothing like that. Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul all are experienced players. They know how to handle the pressure. It’s not a big matter for them.” Prior to the Asia Cup, Ganguly emphasised that Kohli, who has recently struggled with his bat, required more practise. The former India batsman expressed hope that Kohli would soon find form when asked about his current form. Virat is a very important player. He uses a unique formula to create runs. He's going to return soon. "We are all optimistic," the 50-year-old remarked.

The former Indian opener feels that all facets of Indian cricket are flourishing, with victories in Australia, England, and the West Indies. He also has high expectations for India's performance in the forthcoming T20 World Cup. Hardik Pandya's arrival in the team, which he praised as a "great acquisition," also made him happy. “Hardik is doing very well. Last year he was injured. This time he is also bowling,” said Ganguly. He refused to pick a favourite between India and Pakistan for their upcoming fixture. “No one is favourite in T20 cricket. So everyone is good. Those who will play well will win,” he said.