Asia Cup 2023
Top 5 players who might be playing their last Asia Cup
The Asia Cup 2023 is being co-hosted by Pakistan and Sri Lanka.
The ongoing Asia Cup 2023 could mark the final appearance for several senior players. These players have made massive contributions to the tournament for their team and have been pivotal in shaping the tournament’s history. The continental tournament will once again face a moment when many senior players will bid adieu to the glory of the game.
The 2023 edition of the Asia Cup has been one of the most controversial tournaments. It has been struck by various issues, including scheduling and bad weather. Despite these issues, it has produced some nail-biting thrillers and might also mark the end of an era. Some of the greatest players might be thinking of halting their cricketing careers after the upcoming ODI World Cup, which will make this Asia Cup their last event. So, in today’s article, we will discuss the top 5 players who might be playing their last Asia Cup.
#5. Virat Kohli
Virat Kohli (Source: Twitter)
India’s batting maestro, Virat Kohli might be playing his final Asia Cup, primarily due to his age and evolving cricketing priorities. At 34 years old, Kohli has reached a stage in his career where he might consider focusing solely on Test cricket, aiming to prolong his career in the longest format. Kohli’s numbers in Asia Cup history are nothing short of impressive, amassing 613 runs in just 11 innings in previous ODI editions.
His consistent run-scoring has been instrumental in India’s success in the tournament. As he nears the twilight of his ODI career, Kohli’s decision to potentially step away from white-ball cricket could be a strategic move to preserve his energy for the Test arena. While fans would be disappointed to see him go, they will cherish the memorable moments he has provided throughout his Asia Cup journey.
#4. Rohit Sharma
Rohit Sharma (Source: Twitter)
India’s skipper Rohit Sharma could be participating in his final Asia Cup during the ongoing tournament. At 36 years old, Rohit is approaching the latter stages of his career, and preserving his longevity in cricket has become a priority. Rohit’s Asia Cup statistics are a testament to his excellence in the tournament. He holds the record for playing the most matches for India in the tournament.
It demonstrates his unwavering commitment to the team’s success. Additionally, he has notched up the most half-centuries against arch-rivals Pakistan and stands second in the list of highest run-scorers in the competition. Given his age and focus on injury management, Rohit might prioritise formats like T20 and Test cricket, potentially making this Asia Cup his last appearance. His remarkable contributions to the tournament will be remembered by cricket enthusiasts worldwide.
#3. Iftikhar Ahmed
Iftikhar Ahmed (Source: Twitter)
Pakistani batsman Iftikhar Ahmed’s participation in the ongoing Asia Cup could potentially mark his last appearance in the tournament. One significant factor contributing to this uncertainty is his recent dip in form. Iftikhar has struggled to maintain consistency and produce notable performances in recent times. This has resulted in limited opportunities at the international level. His struggles with the bat have raised questions about his future on the national team.
Pakistan seeks to groom younger talents and revamp its batting lineup. Iftikhar’s age and inconsistent form might lead him to contemplate retirement from the game and make way for emerging talents who could shape Pakistan’s future. However, he might not retire and make a comeback with some blistering knocks, but currently, it seems like the last breaths of his career.
#2. Dimuth Karunaratne
Dimuth Karunaratne (Source: Twitter)
Sri Lanka’s batter, Dimuth Karunaratne, might be making his final Asia Cup appearance due to a combination of factors. At 35 years old, he stands in the twilight of his career. Moreover, the demands of limited-overs cricket have become increasingly challenging. Despite being one of Sri Lanka’s most reliable Test batters, Karunaratne has struggled to establish himself in the ODI format.
His recent records in ODIs have been disappointing. This has hindered his chances of retaining a spot in the national side. Sri Lanka are looking to groom younger talents for white-ball cricket. Karunaratne’s age and the lack of consistent ODI performances might prompt him to consider this Asia Cup as his final bow in the tournament.
#1. Shakib Al Hasan
Shakib Al Hasan (Source: Twitter)
The ongoing Asia Cup might witness the final appearance of Bangladesh’s skipper, Shakib Al Hasan, for several reasons. At the age of 35, Shakib is at a stage in his career where managing fitness becomes increasingly challenging. His recurring fitness issues have been a concern, often sidelining him from crucial matches.
Bangladesh are gearing up for a revamp after the upcoming ODI World Cup. The team’s management might be inclined to transition towards younger leadership and fresh talent. Shakib’s remarkable contributions to Bangladesh cricket as a world-class all-rounder are undeniable. However, the combination of his age and fitness concerns might lead him to step back from the longer formats of the game.
