India and Pakistan supporters are anxiously awaiting for the ICC event in order to see them square off against one another. The main event of the T20 World Cup will take place on 24th October in Dubai. Former Pakistan cricketer Waqar Younis is urging Babar Azam and his team to overcome India in the mega event for the first time.
Pakistan has yet to defeat their arch-rivals in the T20 World Cup as they did in the 50-over World Cup. It all commenced in 2007 when the first match under the format between both the sides finished in a draw, but India won in a bowl-out. Later in the final, the two teams clashed, and India triumphed by a stunning five-run margin to claim the title. Ever since, it’s been all one-way thing, with Pakistan collapsing to the Men in Blue.
“I honestly believe that Pakistan can beat India in their opening encounter if they play to their potential. It won’t be easy but we certainly have the personnel who can come good,” Younis said.
“It’s a big game and pressure will be on both teams as it will be their first match of the tournament. But the first few deliveries and runs will be crucial but if we are able to negotiate it well we can win the game,” he further said.
Pakistan have the capability of defending scores: Waqar Younis
Waqar Younis was Pakistan’s bowling coach until the day before the T20 World Cup squad confirmation when he quit alongside head coach Misbah-ul-Haq. Having taught the current crop of bowlers, the 49-year-old considers this bowling unit is capable of defending scores effectively. He also praised Hasan Ali as the finest of the bunch and supported him to direct the assault.
“Bowling has always been our stronger suit and we have seen in the past that we have the capability of defending scores. We did that in Champions Trophy 2017, we have done that prior to that as well so I see no reason why this bunch can’t emulate those performances”.
“I think that Hasan understands bowling better than any other bowler in the current lot and will be our leader in terms of bowling. He certainly has the skill and character to do big things on the biggest stage,” Waqar Younis further added.
