Pakistan all-rounder Faheem Ashraf believes that India should not be taken lightly even without their best batsman and regular Captain –Virat Kohli, saying the Men in Blue are still a world-class team coming into the Asia Cup 2018.

Faheem further added that he wants to break into Pakistan’s playing XI for the Asia Cup 2018 encounter against the arch-rival India on September 19, saying it’s his dream like every player to play against defending champions in such mega event.

Kohli has been rested for the coming six-team event to be held in the UAE from September 15 and the responsibility of captaincy has given to Rohit Sharma, who has also praiseworthy captaincy record with the national side and Indian Premier League franchise Mumbai Indians (MI).

Pakistan, who thrashed India in the final to clinch the 2017 ICC Champions Trophy final in England, is favorites to win the Asia Cup 2018 match against Rohit Sharma’s team in the UAE. Pakistan's prior experience of playing in the UAE will be a huge boost for them in their crucial clash against India. 

However, the all-rounder is confident that Pakistan will win that match against India in the UAE but warned his country to not take the Men in Blue lightly in the Asia Cup 2018.

As per reports in Sport 360, Ashraf told reporters after training in Dubai on Wednesday, “Even if Virat Kohli isn’t coming, India are still a world-class team. You can’t take them lightly. We are practising at 100 per cent. Be it bowler, batsman or fielder. If we give our 100 per cent, I am sure we will win that match.”

Faheem signed off by saying, “My job is to play at my best. Being in the playing XI is the job of the coach. I am sure that if I keep giving the performances, I will be in the playing XI. And obviously, it’s the dream of every player to play against India.”