It Will Not Be Easy For Pakistan To Beat India In T20 World Cup This Time: Shoaib Akhtar

In contrast to the previous T20 World Cup, according to former Pakistani cricketer Shoaib Akhtar, it will be challenging for the Men in Green to defeat India in the forthcoming T20 World Cup, which will take place in Australia in October. In their respective campaign openers, Pakistan and India squared off, with the former thrashing the latter to a dismal loss.

Pakistan’s 10-wicket victory against India in the T20 World Cup 2021 was significant since it was the first time they had ever defeated the men in blue in a 20-over international competition. On Sunday, October 23, at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, the two sides will play one other because they are once more in the same group.

India Will Come Up With Proper Planning This Time Around: Shoaib Akhtar

“India will come up with proper planning this time around. It will not be easy for Pakistan to beat India in T20 WC this time,” Cricket Pakistan cited a statement from Akhtar.

Akhtar, who owns the record for the fastest ball in the sport’s history, believes that the neighbour team would be ready and prepared to face Pakistan, having gained experience from their earlier loss.

Additionally, he suggested that Pakistan bowl second since their quick bowlers will have an advantage on the Melbourne ground.

“Predicting match results now is quite difficult but Pakistan should bowl second as [the] pitch in Melbourne offers bounce to fast bowlers,” he said.

Around 150,000 fans will watch the match in Melbourne: Shoaib Akhtar

Every cricket fan in the world tunes in to witness this rivalry, which is also highly anticipated by supporters of the two countries themselves. When the two neighbouring nations have faced off in the past, some of the best cricket matches have been watched, and Akhtar believes that the MCG would be packed with thousands of spectators.

“I believe the crowd will be bigger this time. Around 150,000 fans will watch the match line in Melbourne. Out of which, 70,000 will be Indian supporters,” he said. Pakistan’s next appearance in an international competition will be in a two-match Test series against Sri Lanka, which will start on July 16.

Also Read: IND vs ENG: “It’s A Real Powerhouse T20 Team India Have Available” – Former England Spinner