In the final version of the Asia Cup, Pakistan defeated India within the Super-four fixture, which finally shattered the latter’s hopes of reaching the ultimate.
This time round, because the arch-rivals lock horns in Sri Lanka, former Pakistan captain Waqar Younis believes that if Babar Azam’s males can play to their potential, they will defeat India wherever.
Speaking on the Asia Cup trophy unveiling programme in Lahore on Wednesday, which was live-streamed by the Pakistan Cricket Board, Younis stated that the present crop has been in a position to break the jinx of shedding to India in big-ticket occasions, which is a good signal.
READ | Asia Cup 2023 Schedule: IND vs PAK on September 2; Full matches checklist
“Play well, it’s as simple as that,” stated Younis when requested what Pakistan’s technique ought to be for the massive sport.
“In our time, we did not win many major tournaments against India. But the good thing is, these boys have started winning against India in big matches recently. That’s a good sign. The monkey is off the back now. So, given the talent we have in our team, if we can play to our potential, I see no reason why they can’t beat India. It doesn’t matter where they play. If we can beat them at The Oval, we can beat them anywhere. Talent is there, just go out there and play like we are tigers. Let’s put it that way,” Younis stated.
Pakistan loved success towards India within the Super-four conflict of the Asia Cup final yr and had additionally defeated the neighbours in T20 World Cup within the UAE in 2021 and the ultimate of the Champions Trophy in 2017. India, alternatively, dominated Pakistan within the 2019 ODI World Cup and likewise within the T20 World Cup in Australia final yr, driving on Virat Kohli’s heroics.
Wahab Riaz, one other seasoned campaigner, believes that each time the 2 groups face one another, the thrill degree shoots up since they don’t play too typically. “On the day of the match, the team that can handle the pressure well can actually be successful. It’s a game of nerves and you need to be focused. At times, due to excitement, you end up losing the focus, but if you stay calm and quiet, you can handle pressure better,” Riaz stated, making it clear that being calm would be the key for Pakistan.
India will start its marketing campaign towards Pakistan in Kandy on September 2.
Source: sportstar.thehindu.com