Do you agree with Ravi Shastri remarks against Pakistan skipper Babar Azam?
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Ravi Shastri, during a recent conversation with ESPNcricinfo, underscored the significance of batsmen emulating Pakistan's captain, Babar Azam. According to Shastri, Azam possesses the exceptional ability to transform promising starts in the 30s and 40s into magnificent centuries, a talent he deems vital for top-order batsmen. "He [Babar] transforms those initial 30s and 40s into triple-digit scores. And this is immensely crucial. While we often stress the importance of facing many deliveries, when one of your top three batsmen notches a century, you're looking at a total beyond 300," Shastri stated.
Shastri also offered his insights regarding the upcoming Asia Cup 2023 match that will feature a high-stakes clash between arch-rivals India and Pakistan. This fiery encounter is scheduled to take place at Pallekele on a Saturday. "I'd say India enters the match as favorites. This squad is the strongest we've seen since 2011, with a blend of exceptionally talented players," Shastri remarked. He also praised India's seasoned captain who possesses a profound understanding of the playing conditions.
However, Shastri acknowledged that Pakistan has narrowed the gap between the two teams in recent years. He reflected on the state of affairs around seven to eight years ago when there was a noticeable disparity in strength between the two sides. "Pakistan has made significant progress, and they are now a formidable team. To succeed, you have to be at your best when facing them," Shastri concluded, acknowledging the fierce competition that awaits in the upcoming match.
In summary, Ravi Shastri's conversation with ESPNcricinfo centered on the importance of emulating Babar Azam's ability to convert starts into centuries for top-order batsmen. He expressed India's status as favorites in the upcoming India-Pakistan match due to the strength of their squad and the seasoned leadership of their captain. However, he acknowledged Pakistan's improvement and emphasized the need for India to bring their A-game to the contest. This anticipation of the clash intensifies the excitement surrounding the Asia Cup 2023
