Waqar Younis made unexpected remarks about Pakistani cricket team ahead of clash against India
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Pakistan and India are set to face off in a sold-out fixture at the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 in Ahmedabad on October 14. According to Waqar Younis, this game between arch-rivals is being hailed as the "ultimate showdown."
You can catch the live coverage on live.arynews.tv. He emphasized that the match will be a high-pressure ordeal for both teams due to the intense crowd support.
"It will undoubtedly be the most significant encounter, the epitome of cricket battles," he remarked. "When you compete in Ahmedabad, home to one of the world's largest and finest stadiums, managing nerves becomes crucial.
Pakistan might be considered the weaker team compared to India, but both sides will be under pressure from the enthusiastic crowd, leveling the playing field in terms of pressure."
Waqar Younis also mentioned that the batting conditions in India are favorable, making it challenging for bowlers. "Given that this World Cup is taking place in India, where we are well aware of the pitch conditions, bowlers may face considerable difficulty.
If they can secure early wickets within the first 2-4 overs, they might mitigate the challenges. However, if the batsmen settle in, it will be a formidable task to restrict the run flow," he explained.
He praised India's strength in the competition, especially their spinners and depth on the bench. "When it comes to ticking all the boxes, India stands out. No other team, not even Pakistan or any other contender, can match India at the moment.
India possesses talented spinners, both in the starting XI, such as Kuldeep and Jadeja, and on the bench. In case of injuries, the players waiting on the bench are in terrific form and cannot be discounted," he emphasized. Regarding the Pakistan team, he characterized Babar Azam's side as unpredictable.
He also highlighted the absence of Naseem Shah as a significant setback. "Losing Naseem Shah is a considerable disadvantage since he and Shaheen used to form a potent new-ball partnership.
The new ball has always been critical for Pakistan, not only in this World Cup but historically. Taking wickets with the new ball used to provide momentum and a better position in the game. Naseem Shah's absence is a significant loss for Pakistan," he noted.
Waqar Younis also pointed out that Hasan Ali, while an experienced campaigner, may find performing on the global stage after a hiatus challenging.
