Asia Cup 2008: The Story So Far As Dhoni and Raina Set the Standard

We never really thought there was going to be an upset, did we?

Four matches into the 2008 Asia Cup, and everything is progressing swimmingly for the four Test nations. Recording easy victories over minnows Hong Kong and UAE was always to be expected for these countries, but runs and wickets are still required against even smallest of nations.

Unfortunately for whipping boys Hong Kong, this obstacle was never likely to be a problem for the two great rivals of the subcontinent. Both India and Pakistan posted wins of over 150 runs, with India's margin of victory a huge 256.

Even though they were facing a less-than-mediocre outfit, India's big-hitters came to the party and looked in ominous form. The now-cemented opening partnership of Segwag and Gambhir look like they were made for each other, with the pair putting on 127 for the first wicket before Viru was caught for 78 off a mere 44 balls.

Gambhir, presumably unable to continue without his beloved opening partner, perished shortly after but this only added to Hong Kong's problems. Captain Dhoni and international newbie Raina both recorded centuries, with the latter's coming off 68 breathless balls.

Hong Kong were skittled for 118 and India showed precisely why they are so fancied in this tournament.

Fierce enemies Pakistan performed slightly less well, but still eased to a comfortable 155-run victory. One of the highlights was Sohail Tanvir's exceptional all-round performance, as he posted a sensational 59 from 55 and 2-20 with the ball to save his side from potential embarrassment.

Over in Group A, Sri Lanka look like the team to beat. A 131-run win over Bangladesh included a beautiful century from in-form opener Kumar Sangakkara and typical smash-it-around-the-park 72 from old-timer Sanath Jayasuriya. My pick before the tournament, Sri Lanka will face tougher tests ahead but will surely be there or thereabouts by the finale.

Bangladesh recorded a win over the UAE and should still qualify for the next stage, but this will surely be as far as they will progress.

If the opening fixtures are anything to go by, India are looking more and more like a side that is ready for greatness. I don't believe Pakistan are quite up to the challenge yet, despite their Tri-Series win, and so the only thing between India and the Asia Cup will probably be Sri Lanka.

The World Cup finalists will be a battle to anyone put against them, but the Super 4s stage will be the true test of their title credentials.

Lets hope for my credibility they stand up to the challenge.