Former Pakistan pacer Yasir Arafat has said in a recent interview that the absence of Virat Kohli in the Indian squad in the upcoming Asia Cup will be a concern for the team. He further said, Pakistan, on the other hand, will breathe a sigh of relief that the regular Indian skipper will not be a part of the high voltage clash between India and Pakistan on September 19. 

"The conditions in the UAE will suit India as well and they have some very able spinners in their squad. Most of their players are also very experienced but all said and done, it would be fair to say that the Indian side will be weaker without the presence of Virat Kohli,” said the 36-year-old."

Having mentioned about Kohli's absence, Afarat also highlighted the fact that even without Virat Kohli, Team India is still a tough team to play against. 

Pakistan's prominence as a limited overs side since their Champions Trophy title by winning the game against India has shifted the balance of this game much in Pakistan's favor. Fakhar Zaman is being said to be the key player for Pakistan in the game as it was his knock which blew India away in the Champions Trophy final last year. 

Arataft reiterated the fact and said that its their win the Champions Trophy final and the absence of Kohli in the vital game which keeps Pakistan ahead in the contest.  Pakistan will be looking to put to good use the psychological advantage they gained by emphatically defeating India in the Champions Trophy final, he said.

“All in all, this will be a fantastic game for a full house to watch and something memorable for the players as well,” Yasir added.

(Inputs from Business Recorder)