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Pakistan vice-captain Salman Ali Agha feels winning the Champions Trophy is more important than focusing on prevailing over India. The arch-rivals are set to clash with each other on February 23 in Dubai, which will be their first meeting after the 2024 T20 World Cup.
India and Pakistan haven’t played any bilateral series since 2012-13 and have met in the ICC and Asian Cricket Council events. Whenever both sides are pitted against each other, the fans usually turn up in huge numbers to support their favorite team. It is worth noting that apart from offering high-octane action, the India-Pakistan clash is also a must-win for both sides, if they want to qualify for the next rounds.
In an interaction on the PCB Podcast, Salman Ali Agha acknowledged the hype surrounding India-Pakistan clash in ICC events. However, as per him, regardless of a result against India, they will look to defend their Champions Trophy title.
“The atmosphere is always very unique at the India vs. Pakistan matches. They say it is the world’s biggest game, but for us, winning the Champions Trophy is more important. Of course, we want to beat India but if we lose to them and still win the tournament, that’s a bigger achievement.
“Everyone wants us to win that (India) match, and we will try to win it. I will also try to perform well in that match,” he added.
Notably, Salman Ali Agha recently slammed 134* against South Africa to help Pakistan register their highest successful ODI chase of 353.
Harbhajan Singh feels IND-PAK clash is overhyped ahead of Champions Trophy
Former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh shared his thoughts on the India-Pakistan clash. As per ‘Turbanator’, the game between the two has nothing different to offer than the other games.
“India and Pakistan. You heard it right-this is an overhyped match between India and Pakistan. Because there is nothing in it,” Harbhajan Singh said on his YouTube channel.
Moreover, Harbhajan Singh feels Pakistan’s Champions Trophy lack a proficient batting line-up, despire the presence of Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam and captain Mohammad Rizwan.
“Looking at their batting line-up, I don’t get the confidence that this team will even fight,” Harbhajan said.
Pakistan will kickoff the Champions Trophy with a clash against New Zealand in Karachi on February 19. Meanwhile, the Rohit Sharma-led Indian team will be up against the challenge of Bangladesh in their first fixture of the Champions Trophy on February 20.
