Top 3 opening partnerships in the ODI Asia Cup

The role of opening partnerships is very important in ODI cricket. They’re like the foundation of a team’s batting plan. A strong opening pair creates a great foundation for the inning, getting things going and building momentum. Good openers make the most of power plays, getting a quick start and putting pressure on the other team.

In the upcoming ODI Asia Cup, having a strong opening partnership is crucial. It brings stability, helps when wickets fall early, and lets middle-order players make the most of the good start. So, a team’s success in the World Cup will really depend on how well their opening partnership performs. It’s a big factor in paving the way for victory. So, in today’s article, we will discuss the top 3 opening partnerships of the ODI Asia Cup.

#3. Kumar Sangakkara and Sanath Jayasuriya 201 vs. Bangladesh, 2008

In the 2008 Asia Cup, Sanath Jayasuriya and Kumar Sangakkara forged an exceptional opening partnership of 201 runs against Bangladesh, showcasing their dominance. Their centuries propelled Sri Lanka to a resounding 158-run victory, securing their place in the final. Jayasuriya’s brilliant knock of 130 from 88 balls set the stage, while Sangakkara’s commanding 121 added to the onslaught.

This monumental stand, executed in just 169 deliveries, became the third-highest opening partnership in ODI Asia Cup history. Sri Lanka’s total of 332-8 was built around this formidable partnership, laying the foundation for their commanding win as Muttiah Muralitharan’s five-wicket haul dismantled Bangladesh for 174.

#2. Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan, 210 vs. Pakistan, 2018

In the 2018 ODI Asia Cup, Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan orchestrated a spectacular display, forging a remarkable opening partnership of 210 runs against Pakistan. This partnership emerged as the second-highest opening stand in ODI Asia Cup history, leaving a lasting mark on the cricketing world.

As the duo took the field, they capitalised on Pakistan’s early lapses in fielding and dropped catches, steering the innings towards dominance. Within just 34 overs, they toyed with the opponents with a flurry of boundaries and milestones. Shikhar Dhawan showcased his exceptional skills by notching up his 15th ODI century, only to be run out later. Their collective effort set the stage for India’s resounding victory, as they chased down a target of 238 with utmost ease, leaving Pakistan in a state of bewilderment.

#1. Nasir Jamshed and Mohammad Hafeez, 224 vs. India, 2012

In the thrilling 2012 ODI Asia Cup clash, Pakistani openers Mohammed Hafeez and Nasir Jamshed shone brightly, each smashing fantastic centuries. Pakistan amassed a colossal 329 for six against India. Hafeez’s powerful 105 and Jamshed’s impressive 112 formed an incredible 224-run opening partnership, setting a new record for the highest opening stand in the ODI Asia Cup.

Their partnership laid a rock-solid foundation, leaving the Indian bowling attack struggling. Unfortunately, India’s fielding performance in the initial stages compounded their troubles. This partnership outshone Pakistan’s previous best against India, surpassing the 144-run partnership between Saeed Anwar and Aamer Sohail in 1996.

Remarkably, despite this remarkable start by Pakistan, India managed a stunning comeback. Virat Kohli’s remarkable 183 and Rohit Sharma’s solid 68 led India to victory as they chased down the target with six wickets in hand.