Asia Cup 2018: India's projected eleven against Pakistan

2) Shikhar Dhawan

Shikhar Dhawan

Shikhar Dhawan has struggled lately in the test format but he certainly is a very important player in the limited overs format for the Indian team.

Like his opening partner, he also averages around 45 in ODIs and India will hope that he gives a good start against Pakistan. When on form, the left-hander blows away the opposition bowling attack and gives his side the upper hand in the game.

3) KL Rahul

KL Rahul

A good Asia cup for the highly rated KL Rahul - who looks most likely play at the number three position in the absence of skipper Virat Kohli - could open the doors for him to cement his position in the side for the long run.

Despite his inconsistent performances in the test arena, he's a brilliant batsman when it comes to ODIs and can be devastating if he gets going. In a high-pressure game against Pakistan, the number three position becomes even more crucial and the Kannada batsman poses an intimidating prospect for the opposition bowlers.

4) Ambati Rayudu

Ambati Rayudu

The musical chairs for the number four position in the batting order continues again in this Asia cup for India. Ambati Rayudu was primed for the number four position against England but the failed yo-yo test stopped him from joining the Indian side on England tour.

He could get a fair crack at the position in this tournament and Indian thinktank will hope that he grabs this opportunity with both hands. India will hope for him to provide solidity in the middle order against Pakistan.