The countdown has begun for the most anticipated match of the ICC World Cup 2023. The International Cricket Council has officially announced October 15 as the day when arch-rivals India and Pakistan will cross paths. The showdown will take place at the grand Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, promising an unforgettable spectacle for cricket enthusiasts worldwide.
For India, the stakes are high as they aim to stretch their unbeaten World Cup record against Pakistan to 8-0. On the other hand, Babar Azam’s men from Pakistan are equally determined to shatter this winning streak. Although Pakistan claimed their first-ever World Cup victory against India in Dubai in 2021, they are yet to register a win over India in the 50-over World Cup matches.
This riveting rivalry dates back to 1992, with India consistently emerging victorious in every ODI World Cup encounter. Historically, these contests have been heavily skewed in India’s favour. However, the upcoming match provides a fresh opportunity for Pakistan to rewrite the narrative.
As fans eagerly anticipate this high-voltage clash, Pakistan’s all-rounder Shadab Khan recently shared his insights. In an interview with Cricket Pakistan, Shadab candidly discussed the joy and pressure that comes with playing against India, particularly on their home turf.
However, Shadab Khan emphasised the importance of looking beyond this one match. “Playing against India brings unique joy and pressure, especially on their home ground. However, the focus should be on competing in the World Cup rather than solely on defeating India,” Shadab stated. He believes that a singular victory over India would be hollow if the team fails to secure the World Cup title.
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Shadab Khan emphasised the importance of looking beyond this one match
Reflecting on his previous World Cup encounter with India in England in 2019, Shadab acknowledged the formidable Indian squad. In that game, the Indian team, driven by fantastic performances from Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and KL Rahul, posted a daunting total of 336/7. Despite a rain interruption and a revised target, the Indian team managed to comfortably defend their score.
With the upcoming clash in Ahmedabad, both teams will be eager to make their mark. As Shadab rightly pointed out, the World Cup journey is not just about one match, but about winning the coveted trophy. Undoubtedly, both India and Pakistan will put forth their best strategies and performances in their quest for World Cup glory. This epic showdown on October 15 is not just a game; it’s a battle of pride, strategy, and the ultimate cricketing supremacy.
