Independence Day Special: Combined XI of India and Pakistan in ODI format

Pakistan celebrates its Independence Day on August 14 whereas India found its freedom a day later. Both countries have produced some amazing cricketers over the years and the rivalry between the two countries has always been epic. However, the growing political tensions between India and Pakistan have kept the action at bay.

Pakistan has always known to produce quality fast bowlers whereas India has found greater success in their batsmen. Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis and Shoaib Akhtar were the most imposing bowlers while Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid found great success with the bat. Imagine had the countries not separated, the amalgamation of India-Pakistan players would have been a lethal force in the cricket world.

Furthermore, the legacy is carried forward by the likes of Mohammed Amir and Virat Kohli. India and Pakistan last locked horns with each other in the Champions Trophy final, which Pakistan won. Meanwhile, both the nemesis will next take on each other in Asia Cup 2018 on 19 September. Here is the combined XI of India and Pakistan.

Hence we take a look at Combined Playing XI of India and Pakistan.

Rohit Sharma

Rohit Sharma has been in prolific form in the recent past. The flamboyant batsman has scored a truckload of runs and has achieved great success in the ODI format.

Fakhar Zaman

Fakhar Zaman is batting in the form of his life. The southpaw had struck a fine century in the Champions Trophy final. Furthermore, the left-hander performed consistently on Zimbabwe tour.

Virat Kohli (c)

There is no better batsman at the number three position than Indian skipper, Virat Kohli. The right-hander is the most consistent batsman in the world. Kohli will also lead the side given his current credentials as Indian captain.

Babar Azam

Babar Azam is also one of the consistent batsmen in the Pakistan line-up. The right-hander has been instrumental in the success of the team.

It is a strong side.

Sarfraz Ahmed

Sarfraz Ahmed has also led Pakistan with aplomb. The right-hander can also get some quick runs while batting in the middle order.

MS Dhoni (wk)

MS Dhoni form has dipped in the recent past. However, the former Indian skipper can still hit the ground running. Dhoni is still the best wicketkeeper in the world.

Hardik Pandya

Hardik Pandya has shown the promise to be a potential all-rounder. Pandya has done well with the bat, however, he is still a work in progress with the ball.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar

Bhuvneshwar Kumar can get the ball to swing both ways. Furthermore, Kumar has also added speed to his arsenal. India’s pack leader is also right on the money.

Shadab Khan

Shadab Khan has done a fine job for Pakistan with his leg-spin. The leggie has produced wickets in the middle overs. Moreover, the talisman can contribute with the bat.

Jasprit Bumrah

Jasprit Bumrah has impressed with his brisk pace. The fast bowler has produced regular wickets for India. Bumrah also hits the bullseye with his yorkers.