The year 2023 will witness a new champion in the ODI format as the ICC World Cup is scheduled to be played this year. Asia Cup 2023 will be taken as a practice ground for the same and the players would be looking forward to the tournament.
In an ODI format, the opening partnership sets the tone for the entire innings. A strong and productive opening partnership can provide a solid foundation for the rest of the batting lineup to build upon. It helps the team to establish a competitive total or chase down a target effectively.
During the Asia Cup 2023, the opening partnership will be one of the focus of the team management. Here is a list of the top 5 opening pairs who have made a strong impact in the Asia Cup. The top bookmakers in India have Asia Cup odds with them.
5) 354 Runs – Marvan Atapattu and Sanath Jayasuriya
Marvan Atapattu and Sanath Jayasuriya formed one of the most successful opening partnerships for Sri Lanka when Asia Cup was played in the ODI format. Jayasuriya was an aggressive left-handed batsman who redefined the role of an opening batsman in ODIs. He was known for his powerful striking and innovative shot-making, especially against the new ball.
In contrast, Atapattu was a classical right-handed batsman with a solid technique. He played a more traditional role as an opener, focusing on building innings and anchoring the top order. Together, they both scored 354 runs on the field and took Sri Lankan cricket to a different level.
4) 366 Runs – Sanath Jayasuriya and Kumar Sangakkara
For a long time, Sri Lankan cricket dominated the Asian continent and they were one of the most feared teams in international cricket that was possible because of the duo – Sanath Jayasuriya and Kumar Sangakkara.
The partnership between Sangakkara and Jayasuriya brought together the experience and class of two of Sri Lanka's cricketing legends. Jayasuriya's aggressive approach combined with Sangakkara's adaptability made for an interesting combination at the top of the order. In Asia Cup, they displayed a partnership of 366 runs overall.
3) 404 Runs – Mohammad Hafeez and Nasir Jamshed
Pakistan has always come out as the strongest contender for the trophy in the Asia Cup tournament. The duo – Mohammad Hafeez and Nasir Jamshed formed the opening partnership for Pakistan in limited-overs cricket, especially during the period around 2012-2013.
One of their notable achievements was during the 2012 Asia Cup, where they played pivotal roles in helping Pakistan win the tournament. They provided strong starts in several matches, setting the stage for the middle order to capitalize. Together, they had a partnership of 404 runs in the Asia Cup tournament.
2) 439 Runs – Gautam Gambhir and Virender Sehwag
Two of the most dominating batters from team India – Gautam Gambhir and Virender Sehwag, come at the 2nd rank in the list as they have scored 439 runs together in the Asia Cup. The opening partnership of Virender Sehwag and Gautam Gambhir is remembered as one of the most dynamic and impactful pairs in Indian cricket history.
Their contrasting styles, explosive starts, and ability to build partnerships made them a formidable duo at the top of the order.
1) 538 Runs – Shikhar Dhawan and Rohit Sharma
The partnership of Dhawan and Sharma has played a significant role in India's dominance in limited-overs cricket. They have been instrumental in chasing down targets as well as setting up competitive totals.
When it comes to the Asia Cup, they top the charts with 538 runs. Dhawan's aggressive style complements Sharma's more classical approach. This balance allows them to handle different situations effectively and keep the scoreboard ticking.
