IND Vs PAK: Virat Kohli Recalls 'Electric' Melbourne Atmosphere Ahead Of India-Pakistan World Cup Clash

As the cricketing world gears up for the high-stakes India-Pakistan clash in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, the memories of an electrifying encounter from the T20 World Cup last year continue to inspire the Indian team. Star batter Virat Kohli, who played a crucial role in India’s thrilling victory over Pakistan at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), reflects on the unforgettable atmosphere that fueled their triumph.

In a video shared by the International Cricket Council (ICC) in the lead-up to the marquee clash, Virat Kohli recollects the extraordinary buzz and anticipation surrounding the 2022 T20 World Cup encounter against Pakistan.

He highlights the infectious energy that pulsated through the team during the lead-up to the match, both in the hotel and in the vibrant city of Melbourne. Virat Kohli’s words capture the essence of what makes cricket a truly special sport – the anticipation, the fans, and the atmosphere that make these matches unforgettable.

“The lead-up to games like this is what makes it so special. The buzz in the hotel, the buzz in Melbourne in general (during the 2022 T20 World Cup) and outside the stadium was amazing. The moment I stepped onto the field, I felt that energy in the stadium,” said Virat Kohli.

Watch: Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya, And Rahul Dravid Talking About The Atmosphere Of IND Vs PAK

 

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The hype for the India-Pakistan clash in 2023 is at an all-time high, and all-rounder Hardik Pandya is not underestimating the significance of the upcoming game. He acknowledges that the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad will create an atmosphere like no other, with over a hundred thousand supporters expected to rally behind their respective teams. For Pandya and his teammates, this upcoming match promises to be an extraordinary experience.

“But definitely, I think the 14th of this month, it (Ahmedabad) will top that (Melbourne atmosphere). You know, 110000 people cheering. I can’t wait. It is going to be a very exciting time,” said Hardik Pandya.

Head coach Rahul Dravid, who experienced the incredible environment at the MCG during the T20 encounter, echoes the sentiment. He shares his excitement about being part of a match that is not just cricket but a spectacle, an event that transcends boundaries and unites fans worldwide. Dravid, a veteran of numerous cricketing battles, recognizes the unique aura of an India-Pakistan encounter.

“It is going to be a great experience to just experience that environment, experience the atmosphere. The T20 game was probably one of the most incredible environments that I have ever been privileged to be a part of,” said Dravid.

The history and intensity of the India-Pakistan cricket rivalry make every match between these two nations a spectacle. As the teams prepare to face off, the excitement among fans continues to build, and the cricketing world is abuzz with anticipation. India, with an unblemished record of 7-0 against Pakistan in ODI World Cups, will be looking to maintain their dominance. However, as every cricket fan knows, statistics rarely dictate the outcome of a match between these two giants of the sport.

Virat Kohli has always performed against Pakistan on the big stage. He has scored 662 runs in 15 matches against Pakistan in ODI format. He averages 55.17 against the Men in Green and will be hoping to add to this tally in the IND Vs PAK match and make sure that the streak is undefeated against Pakistan in ODI World Cups