Waqar Younis: Regarded as one of the most enigmatic teams in major tournaments, former World Cup winners Pakistan retain hope of securing the prestigious title in the upcoming ICC World Cup in India. Led by captain Babar Azam, the 1992 World Cup champions are determined to break their extended losing streak against arch-rivals India in the 50-over World Cup. However, former player Waqar Yonuis have made a contrasting statement just ahead of the tournament.
In a remarkable feat at the T20 World Cup in 2021, Pakistan achieved a historic 10-wicket victory over India, securing their first-ever win against their rivals in World Cup tournaments. Under the captaincy of superstar Babar Azam, Pakistan reached the final of the previous World Cup in Australia. Despite being the current No.2 team in One Day Internationals (ODIs), legendary Pakistani fast bowler Waqar Younis has characterized Babar’s squad as inconsistent in World Cup competitions.
What did Waqar Younis say?
He said, “As we all know, it (India vs Pakistan) will be the biggest game, mother of all the games. So, when you play in Ahmedabad, you will have to control your nerves, and not only Pakistan will be under pressure since it is a weaker team as compared to India. But India will also be under pressure because the crowd in the stadium will create pressure on both the teams.”
He also added, “However, if we judge purely based on the team’s performance, India definitely will be a better team,” he added. Younis was also mindful of the Pakistani’s unstable form, and said the injury-enforced absence of pacer Naseem Shah could put them in a significant disadvantage. If I talk about Pakistan, they are a miss and hit this time. The absence of Naseem Shah will be a big disadvantage because Naseem and Shaheen (Afridi) used to complement each other with new ball.”
Waqar says Team India holds advantage
Former Pakistan captain Waqar Younis asserted that Team India holds an advantage over Babar Azam’s squad in the upcoming World Cup. Younis, who led Pakistan in the 2003 World Cup, acknowledged that the injury to pacer Naseem Shah was a significant setback for Pakistan. Shah sustained a shoulder injury during the Asia Cup. Pakistan’s World Cup journey will commence with a match against the Netherlands at Hyderabad’s Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium on October 6.
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