Former Pakistani fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has made a big claim ahead of the Asia Cup final. He says India could lose this time.
This high-voltage match will take place in Dubai on Sunday, and Akhtar’s statement is already creating a stir on social media.
Pakistan’s Hunger and India’s Troubles
On his YouTube show “Game On Hai,” Akhtar said, “On Sunday, we need just that kind of food. This is because India is bound to have a bad day – that day will be Sunday.”
He believes that if the Pakistani team displays the same aggression and hunger as they did in the Super Four against Bangladesh, it will be difficult for India.
Akhtar praised Pakistan’s bowling and said that if his team scores around 200, India will be under mental pressure.
He further said, “If Pakistan bats first, they can probably reach close to 200. If Pakistan manages to do so, India will mentally lose badly. Because this bowling… and think about it, think about it – if there was one more really fast bowler.”
Akhtar was hinting that Pakistan’s bowling lacks another fast bowler, but the current bowlers can still trouble India.
Pakistan’s victory and bowling strength
Pakistan secured a place in the final by winning the Super Four against Bangladesh by 11 runs. Their bowling was excellent in this match. Shaheen Shah Afridi took early wickets, while Haris Rauf delivered two big blows in the 18th over.
Akhtar said, “If this happens, I feel this will become an unbeatable team in terms of bowling.”
He praised Haris Rauf’s 142-145 km/h and Shaheen’s 140-144 km/h.
Pakistan scored 135 for 8 against Bangladesh, with short but quick innings from Mohammad Nawaz and Shaheen playing a major role. Meanwhile, Bangladesh’s Shamim Hossain scored 30 runs, but Pakistan’s aggressive bowling kept them from victory.
Now, a close contest is looming between India and Pakistan in the final, and Akhtar’s statement is further heating up the atmosphere.
