India receive late boost ahead of Asia Cup clash against Pakistan

Dravid tested positive for COVID-19 before India's departure to UAE for the Asia Cup and former team-mate VVS Laxman had been handed the reins ahead of the big match against Pakistan.

'You people can create hype, I'll focus on the match' – Rohit Sharma

But Dravid has recovered in time for India's tournament opener and will be in the dugout pulling the strings for the highly-anticipated match against Babar Azam’s side.

Laxman is expected to depart Dubai and join up with India's A squad ahead of their three four-day matches against New Zealand in Bengaluru at the start of next month.

The former Test star had been in charge of India during their ODI series against Zimbabwe earlier this month and had been helping prepare Rohit Sharma's side for the Asia Cup in the absence of Dravid.

India take on Pakistan at Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Sunday, before a match against Hong Kong at the same venue on September 1.