(AP Photo)
Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif discussed the upcoming India vs. Pakistan match in the T20 World Cup 2024. He expressed that Rohit Sharma’s team should not be overly concerned about the clash because Pakistan’s batting lineup is weak, and their primary concern should be Pakistan’s bowling attack.
India and Pakistan will face each other in the T20 World Cup 2024 at the Nassau County Cricket International Stadium in New York on Sunday, June 9th.
Pakistan will be under pressure as their recent performances have been poor. They suffered a defeat against Ireland and lost a series against England, entering the tournament after some disappointing losses.
Before the match against India, Pakistan will play against the United States of America (USA) on June 6th, which will be their first game of the tournament. This match will give them valuable game time before the high-stakes clash, and they will aim to secure a win to boost their confidence.
Mohammad Kaif, commenting on Pakistan’s lineup, noted that except for Fakhar Zaman and Iftikhar Ahmed, the team lacks players capable of aggressive batting. However, he emphasized that Pakistan has a strong bowling lineup. He shared these insights during an interview with Star Sports.
“Everyone knows Pakistan’s batting is weak. Fakhar Zaman plays a little fast. If he fires, he can probably win the match alone. Iftikhar Ahmad plays fast but other than that, everyone plays at a strike rate of 120 to 125.
“They will have Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah. Naseem Shah didn’t come to play in the World Cup in India. He was injured, but he is fit here. This will be a bouncy pitch. Naseem Shah is a very good bowler.”
I believe it’s an even contest – Mohammad Kaif on India vs Pakistan
Mohammad Kaif further emphasized that Pakistan should not be underestimated despite their recent losses. He pointed out that the Babar Azam-led team is known for making strong comebacks.
The former Indian cricketer also mentioned that India has a well-balanced team suited for the New York pitch. However, given Pakistan’s history of bouncing back after defeats, the match between these two arch-rivals promises to be a closely contested event. He added:
“It doesn’t matter what form Pakistan comes with. They are coming after losing in England but we know Pakistan’s history. They are coming after losing but can suddenly do anything. They played the final last time.
“The reason for that is the New York Stadium is open, so their pacers will get swing, and since the Adelaide curator has made the pitch, it will be hard and bouncy. On this pitch, although India are a very strong and balanced team, they have spinners and fast bowlers, Bumrah is there and Kuldeep will play, and players are in form, Virat Kohli has form, I believe it’s an even contest,” he concluded.
