Shakib Al Hasan will lead Bangladesh in Asia Cup 2023 (Twitter)
The Asia Cup is a carnival for cricket fanatics as it brings together the best of Asian nations to battle it out for supremacy. However, it isn't just another cricket tournament, it's a celebration, a fusion of cultures, and a display of Asian cricketing excellence on the international stage.
Amidst the thrilling chases, stunning catches, and roaring spells, there are certain players who shine doubly bright. With the ability to sway the match's momentum with both bat and ball, these players’ versatility becomes the fulcrum around which a game pivots. Over the years, there have been numerous players in Asia Cup history who have turned games with their all-round brilliance.
The upcoming Asia Cup 2023 will also see a plethora of all-rounders, who will try to help their respective teams win the coveted silverware.
Here’s a look at the top five all-rounders in Asia Cup history (ODIS)
1. Sanath Jayasuriya
Sanath Jayasuriya is not just a name but an era in Sri Lankan cricket. Featuring in 25 Asia Cup matches, he scored a staggering 1,220 runs, making him the highest run-scorer in the history of the tournament. But his brilliance didn't stop there; with the ball, he scalped 22 wickets. His explosive style of batting along with his ability to break partnerships with his left-arm spin, made him an invaluable asset to his team.
Sanath Jayasuriya (Twitter)
It was under his influence that Sri Lanka clinched the Asia Cup trophies in 1997, 2004, and 2008. The southpaw's legacy in the Asia Cup is not just about numbers but the fear he instilled in the hearts of the bowlers and the hope he gave his countrymen every time he walked to the crease.
The 'Master Blaster', as he's fondly called, Sachin Tendulkar, with his sublime technique and unmatched elegance was the mainstay of India's batting for decades. In the 23 Asia Cup matches he played, he scored 971 runs, positioning him as the third-highest run-scorer. But Sachin's genius wasn't restricted to batting alone.
Sachin Tendulkar (Twitter)
His occasional bowling fetched him 17 wickets, often coming at crucial junctures. His contributions were instrumental in India's Asia Cup victories in 1990, 1995, and 2010. Every time Tendulkar stood at the crease, millions believed, and more often than not, he delivered.
Shakib Al Hasan stands tall as a sign of Bangladesh's cricketing renaissance. Playing only 13 Asia Cup matches, his statistics show why he’s one of the best all-rounders in the world. The southpaw has scored 402 runs and bagged 19 wickets in Asia Cup. Shakib's brilliance lies in his ability to balance aggressive batting with strategic bowling, making him a nightmare for opponents.
Shakib Al Hasan (Twitter(
He was the backbone of the Bangladesh team that reached the finals of the 2012 Asia Cup. Though they couldn't clinch the title, Shakib's valour on the field was evident for all to see. The dynamic all-rounder has another chance to guide his team to victory as he will lead the Bangladesh contingent in Asia Cup 2023.
'Boom Boom Afridi' sums up the essence of Pakistani cricket—unpredictable, explosive, and enthralling. In his 23 Asia Cup appearances, Afridi racked up 532 runs and claimed 14 wickets. Whether it was his whirlwind innings or his timely wickets with leg-spin, Afridi's presence was always felt.
Shahid Afridi (Twitter)
Under his influence, Pakistan tasted Asia Cup victories in 2000 and 2012. Afridi's approach to the game was always fearless, often turning the tide in Pakistan's favour when it seemed all but lost.
Shahid Afridi Stats in Asia Cup
Matches
23
Runs
532
Batting Average
35.46
Strike-Rate
140.47
50s
1
100s
2
Wickets
14
Bowling Average
63.07
Economy Rate
4.96
Best Figures
2/31
4W
0
5. Shoaib Malik
With his elegant batting and effective off-spin, Shoaib Malik has been one of Pakistan's most reliable players in the Asia Cup. Playing 17 matches, he has scored 786 runs, making him the fourth-highest run-scorer, and picked up 12 wickets.
Shoaib Malik (Twitter)
His calm and composed demeanour, especially during crunch situations cemented his position as the backbone of the Pakistani middle order. Malik played pivotal roles in Pakistan's Asia Cup conquests in 2000 and 2012.
Shakib Al Hasan will lead Bangladesh in Asia Cup 2023 (Twitter)
Sanath Jayasuriya (Twitter)
Sachin Tendulkar (Twitter)
Shakib Al Hasan (Twitter(
Shahid Afridi (Twitter)
Shoaib Malik (Twitter)
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