(AFP Photo)

Just hours before the highly anticipated marquee fixture of the T20 World Cup 2024, two iconic pacers have unveiled their favorites for the India vs Pakistan match at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium on Sunday.

Former Pakistan cricket stalwarts and legendary fast-bowlers, Wasim Akram and Waqar Younis, revealed their selections ahead of the crucial clash between the arch-rivals.

In a video shared by Star Sports, Akram confidently chose India as his pick to emerge victorious in the contest. However, he also emphasized the volatile nature of the shortest format, where fortunes can swiftly change.

“If we look at India’s form, India generally is a better team. Better team in a way that they’re favourites heading into that game. I will give 60% to India and 40% to Pakistan. But, it’s T20I, one good inning, one good spell, the game can change quickly. I think everybody is looking forward to the game of the tournament,” said Akram.

His fellow pace-bowler, Younis, expressed his confidence in Pakistan’s triumph, citing their formidable pace-bowling quartet comprising Mohammed Amir, Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf as the key factor.

“My heart says Pakistan but from what I’ve seen so far in this tournament the pitch in New York is very much for the faster bowlers. So, it evens it out a little bit just purely because of the surface in New York,” Younis commented.

Throughout the T20 World Cup’s history, India has dominated Pakistan with a 6-1 lead, aiming to extend their lead to 7-1 in New York. Led by Rohit Sharma, India began the tournament strongly, securing a resounding victory over Ireland.

Conversely, Pakistan faced a dismal start to the tournament, suffering a defeat to co-hosts United States of America in their opening game. This setback significantly impacts their prospects of advancing past the group stages in the T20 World Cup 2024.