New Delhi: Veteran Indian pacer Ashish Nehra will be one of his side's key assets in Saturday's key clash against arch-rivals Pakistan in the ongoing Asia Cup at the Shere Bangla stadium in Mirpur, Dhaka.
After contributing against Australia and Sri Lanka in India's back to back T20I series, Nehra's confidence helped him to deliver against Bangladesh in the opening tie. His presence on Saturday will be handy for skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni.
Nehra was stupendous against Bangladesh picking 3/23 in his quota of four overs. Nehra's experience in the format and the success he is finding consistently will be a threat for Pakistan who play their first game of the tournament.
Pakistan batters will have to be wary of Nehra and Jasprit Bumrah early on given the assistance pacers have received in the conditions at Mirpur.
Nehra had an amazing season in 2015 for the now suspended Chennai Super Kings in Indian Premier League which led the skipper having faith in him to draft him back to the T20 squad this year. Nehra since then hasn't disappointed and has been a notable figure in the side.
His consistency in this format also saw Sunrisers Hyderabad shell out mega bucks in this year's IPL auctions on February 6.
The 36-year-old recently stated that he is looking for a partnership with fellow pace bowlers in the Indian set up and that in turn would only help the bowling unit in dictating the plans well.
Skipper MS Dhoni has been wise in knowing how to get the best out of the senior bowler and has used him well upfront in the powerplay overs. The first six overs are crucial in a T20 game and Nehra has delivered for his captain which was evident in the recent series win against the Lankans.
Since his return to the T20 side, Nehra has picked 10 wickets in seven matches and has been ushered with faith by Dhoni which has allowed him to bowl fearlessly. Nehra had stated recently that the idea is to pick wickets in first six overs even if he gives away some runs.
He has also been praised by former India skipper Sunil Gavaskar.
