Four of them are first-choice options, and some have been in the role for a considerable amount of time. The likes of Rohit Sharma and Angelo Mathews will take over the reins owing to the unavailability of the first-choice captains, but both have plenty of experience leading teams.

At the other end of the spectrum is Anshuman Rath. He is yet to captain Hong Kong in an ODI, having taken over just a few months ago.

The Asia Cup is an excellent battle for Asian supremacy, but serves a greater purpose too, writes Rishad D’Souzahttps://t.co/XtB32rnoSA

— Wisden (@WisdenCricket) September 15, 2018

One way or the other, they will all play a big role in how their teams fare in the tournament. Here’s a look at each of them:

Rohit Sharma (India)
Although he is captain only because Virat Kohli is being rested, the opener’s captaincy credentials are pretty solid. In the Indian Premier League, he has led Mumbai Indians to the title on three occasions. He also led India to victory in the T20I triangular series in Sri Lanka, with Bangladesh as the third team.

Leading the team in the Asia Cup qualifier, Rath guided his team to impressive victories over Nepal and UAE, both of whom have ODI status.

Pooled in the same group with heavyweights India and Pakistan, Rath will have to inspire Hong Kong to pull their weight together if they are to hope for an upset. Rath averages 52 with the bat and can also be a handful with the ball. He will relish the challenge to display his skills against top-quality sides.

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